Name: Ultimate Runza Casserole: Beefy & Cheesy Family Favorite
Prep time: 1 h 55 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 2 ½ tsp active dry yeast; 1 cup warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C); 1 tbsp granulated sugar, plus a pinch; ½ cup warm milk (105-115°F / 40-46°C); ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 1 ½ tsp salt; 4 ½ - 5 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil; 2 lbs lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15); 1 large yellow onion, finely diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper, freshly ground; ½ tsp paprika (smoked or sweet); ¼ tsp celery salt (optional); 1 medium head green cabbage (2-2.5 lbs), shredded; ½ cup beef broth (low sodium); 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional); 1 large egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash); 1 tbsp milk or water (for egg wash)

Ultimate Runza Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a dish, a culinary journey that brings comfort and hearty satisfaction to every table. Originating from the beloved Runza sandwich, a classic filled with seasoned ground beef and cabbage, this casserole pays homage to its rich German-Russian heritage, particularly popular throughout the American Midwest. I’ve personally found immense joy in taking this iconic, hand-held pastry and transforming it into a convenient, family-style bake that delivers all the nostalgic flavors.

Why People Adore This Hearty Classic

People universally adore this dish for its irresistible blend of savory seasoned meat, tender cabbage, and often a creamy, cheesy topping, all baked to golden-brown perfection. It offers the unparalleled comfort of a traditional meal without the fuss of individual preparation, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when feeding a crowd. The rich flavors and satisfying textures ensure that every spoonful is a delight. This particular iteration, my personal take on the Ultimate Runza Casserole, aims to elevate those familiar tastes, guaranteeing an unforgettable culinary experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

For the Yeast Dough:
- 2 ½ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, plus a pinch for yeast
- ½ cup warm milk (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 1 large egg, at room temperature, lightly beaten
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 4 ½ to 5 cups all-purpose flour, divided, plus more for dusting
For the Savory Beef and Cabbage Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 pounds lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 recommended for flavor)
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, your preference)
- ¼ teaspoon celery salt (optional, but highly recommended for depth)
- 1 medium head green cabbage (about 2-2.5 pounds), cored and very thinly sliced or finely shredded
- ½ cup beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds a subtle tang)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for an extra gooey layer)
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk or water

Preparing the Yeast Dough Base and Topping:

Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the warm water (ensure it’s not too hot, as it can kill the yeast, or too cold, which will slow activation) with a pinch of granulated sugar and the active dry yeast. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. You’re looking for a foamy, frothy layer to appear on top, which indicates your yeast is active and ready to work its magic. If you don’t see this, your yeast might be expired, and it’s best to start with a fresh packet. This step is crucial because active yeast is the foundation of a wonderfully light and fluffy dough for your Ultimate Runza Casserole.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Once your yeast is bubbling happily, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, warm milk, melted and slightly cooled butter, the lightly beaten egg, and salt to the bowl. Give everything a good stir to combine these wet ingredients thoroughly. It’s important that the butter isn’t hot, as this could also harm your active yeast and prevent the dough from rising properly. The warmth from the milk and water, combined with the fats from the butter and egg, creates a perfect environment for the yeast to thrive and for gluten development.
Incorporate Flour: Gradually add about 3 cups of the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed with the dough hook (or by hand with a sturdy spoon) until a shaggy dough forms. Continue adding the remaining flour, about ½ cup at a time, until the dough comes together and starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl. You might not need all 5 cups of flour; the exact amount can vary based on humidity, the protein content of your flour, and how well it was milled. The goal is a soft, slightly sticky dough that is manageable but not overly dry. Avoid the temptation to add too much flour, as this will result in a dense, tough crust.
Knead the Dough: Increase the mixer speed to medium-low and knead the dough for 7-10 minutes. If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead vigorously for 10-15 minutes, using the heel of your hand to push, fold, and turn the dough. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and spring back when gently poked with your finger. This kneading process is crucial for developing the gluten structure in the flour, which gives your casserole its wonderful chewiness and ability to hold its shape. A well-kneaded dough means a tender, airy crust for your Ultimate Runza Casserole.
First Rise (Proofing): Lightly grease a large clean bowl with a little olive oil or cooking spray. Place the kneaded dough into the bowl, turning it once to coat the top. This prevents the dough from drying out and sticking to the bowl during its rise. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Place it in a warm, draft-free spot – a slightly warmed oven (turned off!), a sunny window, or simply on your counter if your kitchen is warm enough works perfectly. Let it rise for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size. This first rise is essential for a light and airy dough that will provide the perfect enclosure for your savory filling. You’ll know it’s ready when you gently poke it with two fingers, and the indentations remain.

Crafting the Savory Beef and Cabbage Filling:

Brown the Ground Beef: While the dough is on its first rise, let’s get started on our incredibly flavorful filling for this Ultimate Runza Casserole. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. Cook until it’s completely browned and no pink remains, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Once browned, drain off any excess grease. This step is important for flavor and texture, as it prevents your filling from becoming greasy and ensures a richer, more concentrated beef flavor.
Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the finely diced yellow onion to the pan with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This brings out the natural sweetness of the onion and provides a wonderful aromatic base. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter and overpower the other delicate flavors. You’ll notice the kitchen filling with wonderful smells at this stage!
Season the Mixture: Stir in the salt, black pepper, paprika (smoked paprika adds a nice depth, while sweet paprika is milder), and celery salt (if using). Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, allowing the spices to bloom in the warm oil and beef juices. This really enhances their flavor profile, bringing out their essential oils and distributing them evenly throughout the filling, laying the groundwork for a truly flavorful Ultimate Runza Casserole.
Add the Cabbage: Now for the star of our filling! Add the very thinly sliced or finely shredded green cabbage to the skillet. It will look like an enormous amount, possibly overflowing your pan, but don’t worry, cabbage cooks down significantly. Stir the cabbage into the beef and onion mixture. You may need to add it in batches if your pan isn’t large enough, allowing the first batch to wilt slightly before adding more. Continue stirring until all the cabbage is incorporated and starts to soften.
Simmer and Infuse Flavors: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir everything together well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate all that flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. The goal here is for the cabbage to become very tender – almost melt-in-your-mouth soft – and for the flavors to meld beautifully into a cohesive, savory blend. Taste the filling and adjust seasonings as needed. You might find it needs a little more salt or pepper depending on your preference and the sodium content of the broth you used. The tenderness of the cabbage is absolutely key for an authentic Runza experience; it should be soft, not crunchy.
Cool the Filling: Once the filling is cooked to perfection, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. A lukewarm or room temperature filling is ideal. You don’t want to place a hot filling onto your delicate yeast dough, as the heat could impact the final rise and texture of the casserole, potentially cooking the dough prematurely or killing any remaining yeast activity. Transferring it to a separate bowl can help it cool faster.

Assembling the Ultimate Runza Casserole:

Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Make sure to get the sides and corners thoroughly. This will help prevent sticking and ensure your beautiful Ultimate Runza Casserole comes out easily and cleanly for serving.
Punch Down and Divide Dough: Once your dough has doubled in size during its first rise, gently punch it down to release the air. This redistributes the yeast and prepares the dough for shaping. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into two portions: one slightly larger (about two-thirds of the dough, approximately 25-28 ounces if weighing) for the bottom crust, and the smaller portion (one-third, approximately 12-14 ounces) for the top crust. This ratio ensures a sturdy base and a perfectly proportioned topping.
Roll Out the Bottom Crust: Take the larger portion of dough and roll it out into a rectangle large enough to fit the bottom and extend slightly up the sides of your 9×13 inch baking dish. Aim for roughly 10×14 inches to allow for some overhang. Carefully transfer the rolled dough to the prepared baking dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and evenly up the sides. If the dough springs back or is difficult to stretch, let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the gluten to relax, then try again. This creates a solid foundation for your Ultimate Runza Casserole.
Add the Filling: Evenly spread the cooled beef and cabbage filling over the bottom dough crust. Make sure the filling is distributed from edge to edge for consistent flavor in every bite. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to create a smooth, even layer. Don’t press down too hard, just gently spread it.
Optional Cheese Layer: If you’re opting for an extra layer of deliciousness and gooeyness, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the beef and cabbage filling. This adds a wonderful creamy, tangy element that complements the savory filling beautifully and makes this casserole even more indulgent.
Create the Top Crust: Roll out the remaining smaller portion of dough into a rectangle roughly the size of the top of your baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches). Carefully place this dough rectangle over the filling. It should fit snugly over the entire filling and cheese layer. Trim any excess dough from the edges, leaving a small overhang of about ½ inch around the perimeter.
Seal the Casserole: Now, it’s time to seal all that wonderful flavor inside! Take the overhang from the top crust and the bottom crust that extends up the sides of the dish, and pinch them together firmly all around the perimeter of the casserole. You can crimp them with a fork or simply use your fingers to create a secure, decorative seal. This step is crucial as it helps keep all that amazing filling safely inside during baking and prevents it from bubbling out. A tight seal is key for a well-contained Ultimate Runza Casserole.
Second Proofing: Cover the baking dish loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Place the assembled Ultimate Runza Casserole in a warm, draft-free place for another 30-45 minutes. You’re looking for it to puff up slightly, indicating a light and tender final product. This second rise contributes to the overall texture and softness of the top crust, ensuring it bakes up beautifully.

Baking the Casserole to Golden Perfection:

Preheat Oven: About 15 minutes before the second rise is complete, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure an oven rack is in the middle position. This allows the oven to reach and stabilize its temperature, ensuring even baking from the moment your casserole enters.
Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the lightly beaten egg and 1 tablespoon of milk or water. This egg wash is more than just for looks; it helps the crust brown beautifully and develop a lovely sheen.
Apply Egg Wash and Vent: Once the casserole has had its second rise and is visibly puffed up, gently brush the entire top surface of the dough with the egg wash. Be thorough, covering all exposed dough. Then, with a sharp knife, cut a few small slits (about 1-2 inches long) in the top crust. These vents are important as they allow steam to escape during baking, preventing the crust from cracking or puffing up unevenly, and ensuring the filling cooks evenly and doesn’t make the bottom crust soggy.
Bake the Casserole: Carefully place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top crust is a deep golden brown and the filling is bubbly and heated through. You should see a rich, inviting color that signals readiness. If you notice the crust browning too quickly before the center seems done, you can loosely tent the casserole with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning. A perfectly golden crust, both visually appealing and structurally sound, is a hallmark of a truly Ultimate Runza Casserole.
Rest Before Serving: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. This step is often overlooked but crucial for optimal enjoyment! Let it rest on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the filling to set and firm up, making it much easier to cut neat portions without the filling oozing out or the casserole falling apart. It also lets the flavors fully settle and develop, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious bite. Patience here is rewarded!

Serving Your Ultimate Runza Casserole:

Slice and Serve: After resting, slice your magnificent Ultimate Runza Casserole into generous squares or rectangles, perhaps 6-8 portions depending on how hungry everyone is. Use a sturdy knife and cut straight down. Serve warm. This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own, making it a complete meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with a simple crisp green salad dressed with a vinaigrette, or a side of dill pickles for a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness. Some people also enjoy a dollop of mustard on the side.
Storage: Leftover Runza casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, individual slices can be warmed in the microwave for a quick meal, or for best results and to help maintain the crust’s texture, reheat in a conventional oven or toaster oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, typically 15-20 minutes. You can also freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best quality.
Enjoy! There’s truly nothing quite like a homemade Ultimate Runza Casserole. The comforting aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes, the soft, savory yeast dough embracing that tender, flavorful beef and cabbage filling – it’s a dish that speaks of warmth, comfort, and tradition. I hope you enjoy making and devouring this fantastic meal as much as I do. It’s a wonderful way to bring a beloved Midwestern classic right to your family’s table!

Conclusion:

Well, friends, we’ve reached the end of our culinary journey, and I genuinely hope you’re feeling as excited as I am about this incredible dish! If you’ve been following along, you now have all the tools to create what I truly believe is the Ultimate Runza Casserole. This isn’t just another dinner; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a symphony of savory beef, tender cabbage, and perfectly baked dough, all mingling together in a rich, comforting experience. I can’t stress enough how this recipe takes the beloved, classic flavors of a traditional Runza and transforms them into an effortlessly delicious casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. It’s incredibly satisfying, deeply flavorful, and remarkably simple to put together, making it an absolute game-changer in your recipe rotation. Forget the fuss of individual pockets; this casserole delivers all that nostalgic taste with a fraction of the effort. It’s hearty, wholesome, and truly speaks to the soul, promising to become a cherished family favorite in no time. The rich, seasoned ground beef, combined with the subtle sweetness of the cabbage and onions, all enveloped in that soft, bready layer, creates a harmony of textures and tastes that is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly from the table, leaving everyone feeling utterly content and asking for seconds.

But the magic doesn’t stop once it comes out of the oven! While this casserole is undeniably phenomenal on its own, I’ve got some fantastic ideas to elevate your dining experience even further.

Serving Your Ultimate Runza Casserole:

For a complete and balanced meal, I love serving a generous slice of this casserole alongside a fresh, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The bright acidity of the salad cuts beautifully through the richness of the casserole, creating a delightful contrast. A side of homemade dill pickles or a simple coleslaw also makes an excellent companion, adding another layer of texture and flavor. Don’t forget a dollop of your favorite mustard – a classic pairing with Runza flavors – or even a drizzle of a creamy horseradish sauce for an extra kick! A warm, crusty bread roll (though you might not need the extra carbs!) could also be lovely for scooping up any delicious bits left on your plate. For beverages, a cold lager or a crisp, dry white wine would be a perfect match, or perhaps some unsweetened iced tea for a refreshing non-alcoholic option. This casserole is truly a star on its own, but these thoughtful additions can transform it into an even more memorable spread, perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight to a festive gathering. The sheer versatility of how you can present this dish ensures it will never feel repetitive, always offering a fresh take on a beloved classic.

Wonderful Variations to Explore:

One of the best things about casseroles is their versatility, and this recipe is no exception! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. If you’re looking to switch up the protein, ground turkey or even a plant-based ground crumble could work wonderfully, adjusting seasoning as needed. For extra veggies, consider adding finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach or kale to the beef mixture – just wilt them down before baking. You could also play with the cheese; while cheddar is classic, Swiss or provolone would add a different flavor profile. Want a little spice? A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the beef mixture can really wake things up. For a slightly different dough texture, you could try using crescent roll dough for the top layer, which would bake up even flakier and lighter. And for those who love a bit of tang, a spoonful of sauerkraut mixed into the beef layer before baking can be absolutely divine! Don’t be shy about trying different herbs and spices too – a little caraway seed, for example, could enhance that classic Eastern European flavor profile even further. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this comforting dish to your family’s unique tastes and preferences. This adaptability is what makes this casserole not just a recipe, but a canvas for your culinary creativity.

So, my dear readers, what are you waiting for? This is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create something truly special in your own kitchen. I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and give this Ultimate Runza Casserole a try this week. I promise you won’t be disappointed. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, an easy potluck contribution, or a comforting meal prep option. Once you’ve experienced the sheer deliciousness and comforting warmth, I would absolutely love to hear all about it! Please come back and leave a comment below with your thoughts, your successes, any variations you tried, or even your clever serving suggestions. Did your family devour it? Did you make any unique twists? Your insights and experiences are invaluable, not just to me, but to our entire community of home cooks looking for their next favorite meal. Share your culinary adventure with us! And hey, if you snap a photo, be sure to tag us – I love seeing your beautiful creations come to life. Happy cooking, everyone, and get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort food!