Runza Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish inspired by the classic Midwestern sandwich. It features layers of flaky crescent roll dough, savory ground beef, cabbage, and melted cheese, all baked into a delicious casserole. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this easy-to-make recipe delivers all the flavors of a traditional runza without the hassle of individual assembly.
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For the Casserole
- 2 tubes (8 oz each / 226 g) crescent roll dough
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cups (225 g) shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat (if using). Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the shredded cabbage, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cabbage is tender. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Roll out one tube of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, pinching the seams together to form a solid layer.
- Spread the beef and cabbage mixture evenly over the dough layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the filling.
- Roll out the second tube of crescent roll dough and place it on top, pinching the seams together.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top layer of crescent roll dough is golden brown and fully cooked.
Step 4: Serve
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Vegetable variations: Add shredded carrots or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese options: Try using Swiss cheese for a more traditional runza flavor or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Make-ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
This Runza Casserole is a delicious, family-friendly meal that combines the flavors of a classic runza with the ease of a casserole. Its flaky crust, savory filling, and gooey cheese make it a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and bring a taste of the Midwest to your dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I assemble the Runza Casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Cover the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil before refrigerating. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed to ensure the top is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
What are some good substitutions for the ground beef in this Runza Casserole?
You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option, using the same 1-pound (450g) measurement. For a vegetarian version, use a plant-based ground meat substitute, such as Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger, following the package instructions for cooking. Alternatively, you could use a combination of cooked lentils (about 1 ½ cups) and chopped mushrooms (about 1 cup) for a hearty, meat-free filling. Consider adding a teaspoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra umami flavor when using meat alternatives.
How do I know when the Runza Casserole is perfectly cooked?
The Runza Casserole is done when the top layer of crescent roll dough is golden brown and fully cooked. You can also check the internal temperature of the filling; it should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure the ground beef is fully cooked. Additionally, the filling should be bubbly, and the cheese melted and slightly browned. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the casserole with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
Can I double this Runza Casserole recipe to feed a larger crowd?
Yes, you can easily double this recipe. You’ll need to use a larger baking dish, such as a 9×13 inch pan or two smaller 9×9 inch pans. Double all the ingredient amounts, including the crescent roll dough, ground beef, cabbage, and cheese. You might need to slightly increase the baking time, adding 5-10 minutes, and keep an eye on the top to ensure it doesn’t burn.
What are the nutritional highlights of this Runza Casserole?
This Runza Casserole provides protein from the ground beef and dairy, along with fiber from the cabbage. The cabbage also offers vitamin C and vitamin K. The cheddar cheese contributes calcium. Consider adding extra vegetables like carrots for added vitamins and fiber, or opt for whole-wheat crescent roll dough for increased fiber content.
Runza Casserole
A delicious casserole version of the classic Runza, combining flavorful beef and cabbage in a cheesy crust.
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup chopped cabbage
- 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar or your preference
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped cabbage to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Unroll crescent roll dough and spread on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer beef and cabbage mixture over the dough, then top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and crust is golden brown.
Notes
This casserole is perfect for those who love the taste of traditional Runza but enjoy the ease of a one-dish meal.
