There’s nothing better than a warm, cheesy sandwich fresh from the oven on game day. Runzas, a beloved Midwestern classic, combine soft homemade bread with a savory beef and cabbage filling to create the ultimate handheld comfort food. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or just craving something cozy, this recipe is guaranteed to be a winner.
What is a Runza?
Runzas, sometimes called bierocks, are soft, golden-baked buns filled with seasoned ground beef, cabbage, and cheese. They’re hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Originating from Eastern European traditions, these stuffed sandwiches have become especially popular in Nebraska and are now a beloved tailgate treat across the Midwest.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough
1/2 cup warm water
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
3 tablespoons oil
2 tablespoons sugar
1 large egg
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion salt
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cups shredded cabbage
Salt and pepper to taste
8 slices of your favorite cheese (cheddar or Swiss work great)
2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing
How to Make Runzas from Scratch
First, prepare the dough by mixing the warm water, sweetened condensed milk, oil, sugar, and egg in a glass measuring cup or small bowl
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour, yeast, and salt
With the mixer on low, slowly pour in the wet ingredients and mix until the dough comes together
Increase the speed to medium and knead the dough until it’s smooth and shiny, about 4 to 6 minutes
Turn the dough onto a floured surface, form it into a ball, and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise until doubled in size, roughly 1 hour
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until it begins to brown
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion salt, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes
Transfer the beef to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease
In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion until softened
Add the cabbage and cook just until it starts to wilt
Return the beef to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and mix everything together
Assembling the Runzas
Divide the risen dough into 8 equal portions and roll each piece into a ball
On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough ball into a rough 7-inch circle
Place a dough round in a bowl to help hold its shape, add one slice of cheese, spoon in the beef and cabbage filling, then pinch the edges closed to form a sealed bun
Place the buns seam-side down on a lined baking sheet
Baking and Serving
Bake the runzas in a preheated 375°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown
Brush the hot buns with melted butter for a glossy, flavorful finish
Serve warm with ketchup on the side, and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite
Final Thoughts
Runzas are more than just sandwiches—they’re cozy, satisfying pockets of flavor perfect for game day, lunch, or anytime you want something hearty and homemade. Try them once, and they’ll become a regular request in your kitchen.
