Savory Runza Casserole Recipe with Meat and Cabbage

Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with the Ultimate Runza Casserole? This hearty and flavorful dish brings together all the classic Nebraska flavors in a convenient casserole form, perfect for feeding a crowd or just enjoying a cozy family dinner. Say goodbye to the individual sandwich-making fuss and hello to layers of deliciousness encased in flaky crescent roll crust.

I stumbled upon this brilliant concept when my kids couldn’t get enough of runzas but craved a homemade version that would truly satisfy their hunger. The magic happens as the ground beef, buttery cabbage, onions, and gooey mozzarella cheese meld together to create a dish that even the pickiest eaters, like my neighbor’s vegetable-averse son, can’t resist. Cooking down the cabbage to perfection is key, ensuring a crispy bottom crust and a mouthwatering filling that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with your own twist by adding different veggies, cheeses, or seasonings, the Ultimate Runza Casserole is a versatile and comforting meal that never disappoints. Plus, with make-ahead and freezer-friendly options, this casserole is a lifesaver for busy days and a delightful treat for leisurely family gatherings. Get ready to experience the joy of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that warms the heart and brings smiles around the dinner table.

Quick Benefits

• Family-friendly comfort food that feeds a crowd
• Sneakily delicious way to incorporate vegetables like cabbage
• Easy customization options for added variety
• Perfect for meal prep and can be frozen for future meals

Why You’ll Love This Savory Runza Casserole Recipe with Meat and Cabbage Recipe

• Convenient Comfort Food: Enjoy the classic flavors of Nebraska’s runzas in a hassle-free casserole form that feeds a crowd without the individual sandwich assembly.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish – proven by a vegetable-averse teenager who couldn’t resist this flavorful casserole.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The combination of ground beef, cabbage, onions, and mozzarella cheese creates a rich and savory taste that is sure to please everyone at the table.
• Customizable: Tailor the recipe to suit your taste preferences by adding different vegetables, cheese blends, or seasonings to create unique variations of this comforting dish.
• Make-ahead and Freezer-friendly: Ideal for meal prep, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate or freeze it for a convenient dinner option that’s ready to bake when you are.
• Complete Meal: This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• Family-Friendly: From busy weeknights to leisurely weekends, this ultimate runza casserole is a versatile dish that brings loved ones together and creates a sense of warmth and comfort around the dinner table.

Ingredients for Savory Runza Casserole Recipe with Meat and Cabbage

For the crust and topping

• 2 packages refrigerated crescent roll dough

For the filling

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Kosher salt to taste
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Black pepper to taste
• 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 2 pounds ground beef

How to Make Savory Runza Casserole Recipe with Meat and Cabbage

Step 1: Preheat oven and prepare pan

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 2: Sauté the onion

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until translucent and softened, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Brown the ground beef

Place ground beef in a skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, for about 6-8 minutes.

Step 4: Add cabbage

Add shredded cabbage and cook until tender and golden, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Prepare bottom crust

Press together the seams of one package of crescent roll dough in a 9×13 inch dish to form a crust covering the bottom and partially up the sides.

Step 6: Layer the filling

Evenly spread the beef and cabbage mixture over the crescent roll crust, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 7: Add top crust

Unroll the second package of crescent roll dough and place it over the filling, pressing the seams to seal.

Step 8: Bake until golden

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top crust is golden brown and flaky.

Step 9: Cool and serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving to help it maintain its shape when cut.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared and baked the Ultimate Runza Casserole, storing any leftovers properly is essential to maintain its flavor and texture. To store the finished dish, allow it to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the casserole promptly within 2 hours of baking. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

If you have leftover casserole that you would like to freeze for future consumption, you can do so by wrapping the unbaked assembled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. The unbaked casserole can be frozen for up to a month. When ready to bake, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator before baking according to the original recipe instructions. Remember to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from a cold or frozen state. By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of the Ultimate Runza Casserole even after it has been prepared.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian version of this Ultimate Runza Casserole, you could substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled firm tofu seasoned with your favorite spices. If you prefer a lighter option, you can swap the butter for olive oil when sautéing the cabbage and onions. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, Swiss, or a blend of your favorites to suit your taste preferences.

If you’re looking to make this dish gluten-free, you can use gluten-free crescent roll dough or a homemade gluten-free pastry dough as a substitute. To enhance the flavors, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or herbs like thyme or rosemary to the beef and cabbage mixture. This will give the casserole an extra layer of complexity and depth that can elevate the dish even further.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try slicing the ultimate runza casserole into squares and serving them as appetizers at your next gathering. The individual portions make it easy for guests to enjoy this delicious comfort food without committing to a full plate, and they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Another fun idea is to turn the ultimate runza casserole into a brunch dish by serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad and mimosas. The combination of savory beef, cabbage, and cheese in a flaky crust pairs surprisingly well with the lightness of a mimosa, creating a unique and tasty brunch experience that your guests will love.

FAQs for Savory Runza Casserole Recipe with Meat and Cabbage

Can I substitute the ground beef with another type of meat?

Yes, you can definitely substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even a meatless option like lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version of the casserole.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just remember to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if you’re starting from cold. You can also freeze the assembled unbaked casserole for up to a month, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.

Are there any recommended side dishes to serve with this runza casserole?

This casserole is pretty much a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a simple side salad or some steamed green beans. The rich, savory flavors of the casserole complement something light and fresh as a side dish. For drinks, cold milk is great for kids, while beer can be a good choice for adults to complement the comfort food vibe.

How can I customize this runza casserole to suit my preferences?

You can customize this casserole in various ways. You can add different vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture. Experiment with a blend of cheeses instead of just mozzarella, or add a layer of cream cheese for extra richness. Different seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder can also be used to change up the flavor profile according to your taste.

Conclusion

As you gather your loved ones around the dinner table to enjoy the comforting flavors of the Ultimate Runza Casserole, remember that food has the magical ability to bring joy and warmth to any gathering. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or a dish to impress at a family dinner, this casserole is sure to delight and satisfy all appetites.

Experiment with different variations and make this recipe your own by adding your favorite ingredients or tweaking the seasonings. Embrace the versatility of this dish and enjoy the process of creating a meal that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul. So go ahead, whip up a batch of this Ultimate Runza Casserole and bask in the love and laughter it brings to your home.