Introduction
Welcome to our delicious recipe for Runza Casserole! This classic dish is a crowd favorite, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. With its rich flavors and comforting ingredients, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.
If you’ve never heard of Runza before, you’re in for a treat. Originating from Nebraska, Runza is a type of sandwich made with bread dough and filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, cabbage, and onions. It’s like a handheld casserole, but we’ve taken it a step further by turning it into a delightful casserole that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons why you’ll fall in love with this Runza Casserole. First and foremost, it’s incredibly delicious. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and sautéed onions creates a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds sing.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty and satisfying meal on the table in no time. Plus, this casserole can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences by adding your favorite seasonings or vegetables.
For those watching their dietary intake, this recipe can be a great option. By using lean ground beef and whole wheat bread, you can enjoy a nutritious and filling meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Runza Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 8 slices of bread
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Optional ingredient substitutions:
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread or wrap the filling in lettuce leaves instead.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making this mouthwatering Runza Casserole:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Next, add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook until the cabbage is wilted and tender.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- While the filling is cooking, lightly toast the slices of bread.
- Grease a baking dish with melted butter.
- Place four slices of toasted bread in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Spread half of the cabbage and ground beef mixture over the bread slices.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining bread and filling.
- Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Pro tip: If you want to achieve a crispy top, broil the casserole for a couple of minutes after removing the foil.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some expert tips to help you achieve the best results with your Runza Casserole:
- Make sure to finely shred the cabbage to ensure even cooking and distribution throughout the casserole.
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a sprinkle of caraway seeds to the cabbage and ground beef mixture.
- If you’re short on time, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the casserole right before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
While this Runza Casserole recipe is already delicious as is, feel free to get creative and add your own twist. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:
- Instead of using ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the filling.
- For a cheesy twist, mix in some cream cheese or your favorite cheese blend into the filling.
- If you’re a fan of extra crunch, top the casserole with some crushed potato chips or French fried onions before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your Runza Casserole is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can always serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness. It pairs well with a tangy coleslaw or a simple garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
For a comforting and satisfying meal, serve the Runza Casserole with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to please your taste buds.
If you’re looking for a beverage to complement the casserole, reach for a cold glass of iced tea or a refreshing lemonade. The crispness of the drink will balance out the richness of the dish.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Runza Casserole:
Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then bake according to the instructions.
Q: Can I use pre-made bread dough for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time or prefer the convenience, you can use pre-made bread dough from the grocery store. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for baking.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you’re ready to bake the casserole, simply assemble it as instructed and bake according to the recipe.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – a delicious and comforting Runza Casserole recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its hearty filling and golden cheesy top, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving some comfort food, this casserole will hit the spot.
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Runza Casserole as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your experience and tag us on social media. Happy cooking!
Runza Casserole
A delicious and comforting casserole version of the classic Runza sandwich, featuring seasoned ground beef, cabbage, onions, and melted cheddar cheese, all layered between toasted bread slices.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 8 slices of bread
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Directions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook until the cabbage is wilted and tender.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly toast the slices of bread.
- Grease a baking dish with melted butter.
- Place four slices of toasted bread in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Spread half of the cabbage and ground beef mixture over the bread slices.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining bread and filling.
- Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
