Classic Hearty Runzas with Ground Beef, Cabbage & Onion Filling
A delicious Midwestern favorite! These Classic Homemade Runzas (also known as bierocks) feature soft, pillowy dough stuffed with a savory mix of ground beef, cabbage, and onions. Perfect for a cozy dinner, freezer meal, or on-the-go lunch!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
For the Filling:
1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cups chopped green cabbage
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for cooking
Instructions:
Activate the Yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Make the Dough:
Add butter, egg, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until smooth, then add the remaining flour gradually. Knead until the dough becomes soft and elastic (about 5–7 minutes). Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in chopped cabbage, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 5–7 minutes until cabbage is tender. Let cool slightly.
Assemble the Runzas:
Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a circle about 6 inches wide. Spoon ¼ cup of the beef-cabbage mixture into the center, fold the dough over, and pinch the edges to seal.
Bake:
Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let rise for 15 minutes while preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter for extra flavor!
Tips & Serving Ideas:
Add shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese to the filling for a melty twist.
Freeze baked runzas for up to 3 months perfect for meal prep.
Serve warm with mustard or a creamy dipping sauce.
Runza recipe, homemade runzas, classic beef and cabbage runza, bierocks recipe, Midwestern comfort food, stuffed bread pockets, easy dinner idea
Learn how to make Classic Homemade Runzas soft, golden rolls filled with a savory mix of ground beef, cabbage, and onions. This hearty Midwestern favorite is perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep!
