Name: Runza Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups chopped cabbage; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cans crescent roll dough (8 oz each)

When comfort food cravings strike, few dishes satisfy quite like a golden, buttery Runza Casserole. Inspired by the beloved Nebraska sandwich, this casserole layers seasoned beef, sweet cabbage, and gooey cheese between flaky crescent dough, transforming a classic handheld into a hearty bake the whole family will love.

It’s cozy, budget-friendly, and easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Whether you grew up with Runzas or are just discovering their deliciousness, this casserole delivers nostalgic flavor in every forkful.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting this casserole just right comes down to having the right tools in your kitchen. Start with a 9×13-inch baking dish — it ensures the perfect ratio of filling to crust and keeps everything evenly baked. You’ll also need a large skillet to brown your ground beef and sauté the onions and cabbage. For spreading and smoothing the dough layers, a rubber spatula works wonders.

Don’t forget a sharp knife or pizza cutter for cleanly slicing your Runza casserole once it’s out of the oven, and a mixing spoon or spatula for stirring everything together without breaking up the dough. Having these essentials on hand will keep prep smooth and stress-free.

Ingredients for the Runza Casserole

Ground Beef: This is the heart of the casserole, providing a rich, savory flavor and satisfying protein base.
Cabbage: Adds a hint of sweetness and texture that balances the richness of the beef.

Yellow Onion: Offers an aromatic foundation that enhances the filling.
Crescent Roll Dough: Forms the buttery, flaky layers that sandwich the filling and mimic traditional Runza dough.
Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or a blend): Melts into the filling for gooey, cheesy goodness in every bite.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
Olive Oil or Butter: Used for sautéing the vegetables, adding flavor and moisture.

How To Make the Runza Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Add the Veggies

Stir in chopped onions and cabbage. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until softened and slightly caramelized. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Base

Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, covering the bottom completely. Press together any seams.

Step 4: Layer the Filling

Spread the beef and cabbage mixture evenly over the dough base. Top with shredded cheese.

Step 5: Top It Off

Unroll the second can of crescent dough and lay it over the filling. Pinch the edges to seal the top crust.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

How to Serve and Store Runza Casserole

Runza Casserole is best served warm, fresh out of the oven. Slice it into generous squares and plate it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. If you’re feeling indulgent, a drizzle of mustard or dollop of sour cream adds a tasty twist.

For storing, let leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop a slice in the oven or air fryer to maintain that flaky crust, or use the microwave for convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of ground beef works best?

Use lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to reduce excess grease while still getting great flavor.

Can I substitute crescent dough with another crust?

Yes! Puff pastry or even pizza dough can work as alternatives, though the texture will vary slightly.

Do I need to cook the cabbage before baking?

Yes, sautéing the cabbage with onions before baking softens it and enhances its sweetness.

Can I freeze Runza Casserole?

Absolutely. Bake it first, cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat in the oven for best results.

What cheese melts best for this casserole?

Cheddar is a classic choice, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella work well too, especially in a blend.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but you can spice it up with chili flakes, pepper jack cheese, or a splash of hot sauce if you like a kick.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you enjoyed this savory Runza Casserole, you’ll love exploring these other comforting baked creations:

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for a cheesy, pasta-filled weeknight win.

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole that brings holiday flavors any day of the week.
Mexican Cornbread Casserole if you’re in the mood for something zesty and bold.
Scalloped Corn Casserole for a sweet-savory Southern side dish.

Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole to delight the kids (and grownups too!).

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how your Runza Casserole turned out. Did you add garlic or spice it up? Maybe swapped in turkey or made it vegetarian?

I love hearing all the ways you make these recipes your own. Don’t hesitate to drop questions either—we’re here to cook smarter together!

Runza Casserole Recipe

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 45 minutes

Yield: 8 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Runza Casserole brings the classic Nebraska sandwich into a warm, bubbly bake layered with seasoned ground beef, sautéed cabbage and onions, melty cheese, and buttery crescent dough. Perfect for cozy weeknights or hearty family dinners, it’s a nostalgic dish that always hits the spot.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef

2 cups chopped cabbage

1 medium yellow onion, chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

2 cans crescent roll dough (8 oz each)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.

3. Add the chopped onions and cabbage to the skillet with olive oil or butter. Sauté for 8-10 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of the greased baking dish. Seal any seams.

5. Spread the beef and cabbage mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.

6. Unroll the second can of crescent dough and place it over the filling. Seal the edges.

7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

8. Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.