Delight your taste buds with the comforting flavors of our Easy Runza Casserole recipe. Inspired by the classic Nebraska sandwich, this hearty casserole brings together ground beef, cabbage, and cheese in a convenient and delicious dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of a Runza without the hassle of making individual sandwiches. Join us as we explore the world of comfort food and discover the joy of this satisfying casserole.
Ingredients
Meat:
- 1 lb Ground beef, lean
Produce:
- 2 cups Cabbage
- 1/2 cup Onion
Canned Goods:
- 1 (10 ounce) can Cream of mushroom soup, low-sodium
Baking & Spices:
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper, ground
- 1 tsp Salt
Bread & Baked Goods:
- 2 (8 ounce) packages Crescent rolls, refrigerated
Dairy:
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Preparing the Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
- Add the cabbage, onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Assembling the Casserole:
- Unroll one package of crescent rolls and press the dough into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, covering the bottom completely.
- Spread the beef and cabbage mixture evenly over the crescent roll crust.
- Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese over the top of the beef mixture.
- Unroll the second package of crescent rolls and place them over the cheese layer, pressing the seams together to seal.
Baking the Casserole:
- Melt the butter and drizzle it over the top of the crescent roll crust.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle Italian seasoning or dried parsley over the top of the casserole before baking.
- Feel free to customize the filling by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms.
- You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Swiss, for a unique flavor twist.
Keto Versions and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version:
- Replace the crescent rolls with a low-carb dough made from almond flour or coconut flour.
- Use heavy cream instead of cream of mushroom soup to reduce the carb content.
- Substitute the onions with shallots or green onions for a lower carb option.
Low-Carb Version:
- Opt for a low-carb cream of mushroom soup or make your own using mushrooms, broth, and cream.
- Use a combination of shredded cabbage and chopped cauliflower for a lower carb alternative to traditional cabbage.
- Replace the crescent rolls with a mixture of almond flour, eggs, and cheese to create a keto-friendly crust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to ground beef and can be used interchangeably in this recipe. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding the other ingredients.
4. Can I add other seasonings or spices to the filling?
Of course! Feel free to customize the filling to suit your taste preferences. You can add herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil for extra flavor, or spice it up with a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Experience the cozy comfort of Easy Runza Casserole, a delicious twist on the classic Nebraska sandwich. With its savory beef and cabbage filling, gooey cheese, and buttery crescent roll crust, this hearty casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed for dinner on a chilly evening or served at your next gathering, it’s a satisfying dish that’s sure to please. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of Runza in casserole form. Happy cooking!
With this flavorful recipe and helpful tips, you’re ready to create a delicious Easy Runza Casserole that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this hearty dish as you savor every bite. Here’s to good food and happy gatherings!
