Runza Casserole Recipe

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Golden, flaky pastry layered over seasoned beef and tender cabbage—this Runza Casserole brings the classic Midwestern favorite to your dinner table with a comforting twist. Baked to bubbly perfection, it offers all the cozy flavors of the original handheld Runza sandwich in a fuss-free, family-style dish. The savory aroma alone will have everyone lining up before it even leaves the oven.

Whether you’re craving a hearty weekday meal or introducing friends to a Nebraska classic, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The rich beef filling melds perfectly with the buttery puff pastry, while the cabbage adds that warm, earthy flavor you didn’t know you were missing. It’s rustic, filling, and impossible to resist.

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What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

For best results, use store-bought frozen puff pastry sheets—just make sure to thaw them according to the package instructions. The buttery layers bake into a golden, flaky topping that perfectly balances the savory filling. If you prefer something heartier, crescent dough sheets or even homemade yeast dough can substitute, but nothing beats the ease and crunch of a good puff pastry.

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Ingredients for the Runza Casserole

Ground Beef – This is the heart of the filling. Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess grease while still keeping the flavor rich.

Cabbage – Chopped green cabbage brings a sweet, earthy bite that balances the savory meat.

Yellow Onion – Sautéed with the beef, it adds a layer of aromatic depth.

Garlic – Just a bit, minced finely, infuses the dish with warmth.

Salt and Pepper – Essential for bringing out the flavor in every bite.

Cheddar Cheese – Melted into the filling or sprinkled on top, it adds a creamy, sharp finish.

Puff Pastry Sheets – These bake up crisp and golden, sealing in all the goodness beneath.

Egg Wash – A simple mix of egg and water helps give the pastry that glossy, golden finish.

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How To Make the Runza Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease for a lighter finish.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add chopped onion and cabbage to the skillet with the browned beef. Stir and cook for about 7 to 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and beginning to caramelize. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in the salt and pepper. Stir to combine everything well and remove from heat. At this point, you can also mix in some shredded cheddar if you’d like the cheese melted throughout.

Step 4: Prepare the Pastry Base

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of thawed puff pastry. Lay it across the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, pressing gently to fit the edges.

Step 5: Add the Filling

Spoon the beef and cabbage mixture evenly over the puff pastry base. Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese over the top of the filling for a gooey center.

Step 6: Top with Second Pastry Sheet

Roll out the second puff pastry sheet and lay it over the filling. Crimp the edges together with a fork or your fingers to seal the casserole. Make a few small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.

Step 7: Apply Egg Wash

In a small bowl, beat an egg with a tablespoon of water. Brush this egg wash over the top pastry layer to give it that golden, shiny finish once baked.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in a preheated 375°F oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

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How to Serve and Store Your Runza Casserole

Once your Runza Casserole is out of the oven and cooled slightly, slice it into generous squares and serve warm. It’s hearty enough to stand alone as a main dish but also pairs wonderfully with lighter sides for a balanced meal.

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Wrap individual slices in foil or store in airtight containers. Refrigerated, it will keep well for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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What to Serve With Runza Casserole?

Classic Potato Wedges

Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, potato wedges make a comforting side to balance the flaky pastry.

Creamy Coleslaw

The cool crunch of coleslaw brings a refreshing contrast to the warm and savory casserole.

Garlic Green Beans

Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic and butter are a great way to add greens to your plate.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

This bright, juicy salad keeps things light and cuts through the richness of the dish.

Buttery Corn on the Cob

A summertime favorite that complements the casserole with sweet, simple flavor.

Pickled Beets

Their tanginess pairs surprisingly well with the savory meat and cabbage filling.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Slightly sweet and caramelized, they add depth and color to your dinner plate.

Cheesy Cauliflower Bake

If you’re serving a crowd, this gooey veggie dish is a great way to extend the meal.

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Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this Runza Casserole made your tastebuds sing, you might enjoy these hearty, comforting dishes too:

• Chicken Taco Casserole for a Tex-Mex spin on dinner.
• Easy Shepherd’s Pie when you need something ultra cozy and filling.
• Hashbrown Chicken Casserole for crispy, cheesy comfort.
• French Onion Beef & Rice Casserole with rich, savory flavor in every bite.
• Creamy Crack Chicken Crockpot if you want a slow-cooker crowd-pleaser.

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Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe some Swiss cheese or a dash of hot sauce? I’d love to hear how it turned out—share your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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