Tips and Notes
Plan Ahead: The dough needs several hours to rise, so be sure to start early or prepare the dough the night before.
Control Rising Time: If the dough rises too quickly and you’re not ready to assemble, you can place it in the refrigerator for up to an hour to slow down the rising process.
Dough Options: If you can’t find Rhodes brand frozen roll dough, look for similar frozen bread dough in your grocer’s freezer section. You can also use crescent roll dough as an alternative.
Handling Sticky Dough: If the dough is sticky, dust your work surface and hands with a little flour to make handling easier.
Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: Brushing the Runzas with egg wash gives them a professional, bakery-quality appearance. Alternatively, you can brush them with melted butter for added flavor.
What to Serve with Runzas
These savory meat-filled buns are a meal in themselves, but they pair wonderfully with:
Potato Salad: A classic side dish that complements the hearty filling.
Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness.
Pickles and Mustard: Serve with dill pickles and spicy mustard for extra flavor.
Soup or Salad: A bowl of soup or a fresh green salad makes for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 222 kcal
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Protein: 12 g
Fat: 5 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2 g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1 g
Trans Fat: 0.1 g
Cholesterol: 28 mg
Sodium: 365 mg
Potassium: 115 mg
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 4 g
Vitamin A: 61 IU
Vitamin C: 3 mg
Calcium: 70 mg
Iron: 3 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze Runzas?
A: Yes! Runzas freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I make vegetarian Runzas?
A: Absolutely. Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or other vegetables for the filling.
Q: Can I add cheese to the filling?
A: Yes! Adding shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the filling adds a delicious twist.
Final Thoughts
Making Simple Nebraska-Style Runzas at home is easier than you might think, especially with the convenience of ready-made frozen roll dough. These delicious meat-filled buns are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re familiar with this Midwestern classic or trying it for the first time, this easy recipe brings the authentic taste of Nebraska right to your kitchen.
Happy cooking!
