Nebraska-style Savory Runza Turnovers
These delightful Nebraska-style Runza Turnovers are a comforting and hearty hand-held treat filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, sautéed onions, and tender cabbage encased in pillowy bread dough. Originating from the iconic Runza Hut restaurants, these turnovers were a popular choice at tailgate parties during Nebraska football games, offering a delicious alternative to traditional sandwiches. Perfect for lunch or as a snack, these turnovers can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, allowing you to enjoy them anytime with minimal effort. Whether served warm or at room temperature, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering or meal.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
frozen bread dough
2 loaves (thawed and risen)
lean ground beef
1/2 lb (browned and crumbly)
medium onion
1, chopped (chopped)
beef broth
1/2 cup (divided)
garlic
1-2 cloves (minced)
cabbage
4 cups (finely chopped)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
egg white
1 (beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Nebraska-style Savory Runza Turnovers?
They are a hand-held bread pocket filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, onions, and cabbage, popularized by the Runza Hut restaurants in Nebraska.
What type of dough is best for this recipe?
This recipe utilizes two loaves of frozen bread dough that have been thawed and allowed to rise.
What are the primary filling ingredients?
The filling consists of lean ground beef, chopped onion, finely chopped cabbage, and minced garlic.
How much cabbage is required?
You will need 4 cups of finely chopped cabbage for the filling.
Can I freeze these turnovers?
Yes, these turnovers are freezer-friendly and can be stored in the freezer to be enjoyed later.
Is the ground beef cooked before being added to the dough?
Yes, the ground beef should be browned and crumbly before the turnovers are assembled.
What is the purpose of beef broth in the recipe?
The beef broth adds moisture and savory depth to the meat and cabbage filling.
How do I prepare the egg wash?
Beat one egg white with one tablespoon of water to create the wash for the dough.
Are Runzas good for tailgating?
Absolutely, they were a popular choice at Nebraska football game tailgates due to their portable nature.
Can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
Yes, leftover turnovers can be kept in the refrigerator and reheated when needed.
What is the texture of the outer shell?
The turnovers feature a pillowy, soft bread dough exterior.
Should the cabbage be chopped finely?
Yes, the cabbage should be finely chopped so it cooks down to a tender consistency.
Can these be served cold?
They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for different settings.
How much garlic should I use?
The recipe suggests using 1 to 2 cloves of minced garlic.
Is this recipe considered a main course or a snack?
They are perfect for either a hearty lunch or a substantial snack.
What seasonings are added to the filling?
The filling is seasoned with salt and pepper to taste, roughly 1/4 teaspoon of each.
How many loaves of dough do I need?
You will need two loaves of frozen bread dough.
What kind of onion is recommended?
One medium-sized chopped onion is used in the savory mixture.
Is the beef broth added all at once?
The 1/2 cup of beef broth should be added in divided portions.
Why use lean ground beef?
Lean ground beef is preferred to ensure the filling is savory without being overly greasy inside the dough.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer for convenience.
Are these similar to traditional sandwiches?
They are a unique alternative to sandwiches, offering a completely enclosed savory filling.
Where did the Runza originate?
They originated from the iconic Runza Hut restaurants in Nebraska.
How should the onion be prepared?
The medium onion should be chopped before being sautéed with the beef.
What is the primary flavor profile?
The flavor is savory and comforting, characterized by the mix of beef, onion, and tender cabbage.
Is this a kid-friendly recipe?
Yes, the mild and savory flavors typically make them a hit with children.
Does the dough need to rise?
Yes, the frozen dough loaves must be both thawed and risen before assembly.
Can I substitute the meat?
While traditionally made with beef, you can experiment with other ground meats like turkey.
How much salt and pepper is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper, or to taste.
What makes the bread pillowy?
The use of yeast-based bread dough that has been properly risen provides that soft, pillowy texture.