Go Back
+ servings
Nebraska Runzas

Nebraska Runzas: Cozy Hand Pies to Warm Your Soul

Nebraska Runzas are delightful hand pies filled with seasoned meat, cabbage, and onions, bringing a comforting Midwestern tradition to your table.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 8 pockets
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour whole wheat flour is a great heartier option
  • 2 tablespoons sugar honey or agave can be natural alternatives
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast substitute with instant yeast for quicker prep
  • 1 teaspoon salt don't skip this essential ingredient!
  • 1 cup milk warmed to 120–130°F; try almond or oat milk for dairy-free
  • 1/2 cup water warmed to 120–130°F
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter use salted butter but reduce added salt
  • 2 large eggs for an egg-free option, a flax egg works well
For the Filling
  • 1 pound ground beef can substitute with ground turkey or lentils
  • 1 chopped onion or use leeks for a milder option
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage sautéed mushrooms can substitute for a veggie option
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce there are vegan versions available
  • to taste salt & pepper always adjust according to your taste
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil olive oil can be a healthier swap

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Skillet
  • Baking sheet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Kitchen towel

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Heat the milk and water until warmed, then mix with dry ingredients to form a smooth mixture.
  2. Incorporate the eggs and additional flour until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
  4. In a skillet, heat vegetable oil and sauté the onions until translucent. Add ground beef, brown it thoroughly, then mix in cabbage, Worcestershire sauce, and seasoning. Cook 5–7 minutes.
  5. After rising, punch down the dough. Divide into 8 pieces, roll each into a circle, place filling in the center, and seal tightly.
  6. Arrange the filled pockets on a greased baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let rest for 20 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
  8. Brush warm Runzas with melted butter after baking and enjoy while warm!

Nutrition

Serving: 1pocketCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Nebraska Runzas can be made ahead and frozen, making them perfect for busy weeknights. Remember to let the filling cool before sealing in the dough.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!