Embark on a culinary journey to the heartland of America with our Runza Casserole recipe. Inspired by the iconic Nebraska sandwich, this hearty casserole is a celebration of savory flavors and comforting textures. Tender ground beef, crisp cabbage, and onions are enveloped in a creamy mushroom sauce, then topped with a blanket of melted cheddar cheese—all nestled within a flaky pie crust. Whether you’re a fan of the classic sandwich or simply seeking a new twist on a familiar favorite, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to satisfy. Join us as we dive into the recipe and rediscover the joy of home-cooked comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/2 head of cabbage, chopped
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (2 crusts) refrigerated pie crust
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add Cabbage and Onion: Add the chopped cabbage and diced onion to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the onion is translucent.
- Season: Season the beef and cabbage mixture with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
- Assemble Casserole: Unroll one pie crust and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, covering the bottom and slightly up the sides. Spread half of the beef and cabbage mixture over the pie crust. Pour half of the mushroom soup mixture over the beef and cabbage. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining pie crust, beef and cabbage mixture, soup mixture, and shredded cheese.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the Runza Casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting goodness!
Cook Notes:
- For added flavor, you can sauté the onions until caramelized before adding them to the beef and cabbage mixture.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning by adding your favorite herbs and spices, such as thyme, paprika, or Worcestershire sauce.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the ground beef and double the amount of cabbage or add cooked lentils for protein.
Variations:
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Mix additional shredded cheese into the beef and cabbage mixture for an extra cheesy delight.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef and cabbage mixture for a spicy twist.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Stir in fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: Substitute the pie crust with a low-carb alternative made from almond flour or coconut flour. Use heavy cream instead of milk in the mushroom soup mixture and opt for a keto-friendly cream of mushroom soup without added starch or sugar.
- Low-Carb Option: Reduce the amount of pie crust used or omit it altogether. Increase the proportion of cabbage and beef in the casserole to create a higher ratio of protein and vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option. Just be sure to cook the ground turkey until fully cooked and no longer pink.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator until needed. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Runza Casserole for future meals. Let the casserole cool completely, then cut it into individual portions and wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a resealable freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Indulge in the comforting flavors of the heartland with our Runza Casserole recipe, a delicious homage to the beloved Nebraska sandwich. With layers of savory beef, tender cabbage, creamy mushroom sauce, and melted cheddar cheese—all wrapped up in a flaky pie crust—this casserole is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this easy-to-make dish is sure to be a hit.
So, gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy the warm embrace of home-cooked comfort food. Let each bite of our Runza Casserole transport you to a place of culinary bliss and satisfaction, where the simple pleasures of good food and good company reign supreme!
