Runzas (Bierocks) – The Hearty Midwestern Stuffed Bread Delight
A delicious mix of ground beef, cabbage, and onions wrapped in a soft bread dough, Runzas (Bierocks) are hearty, flavorful, and deeply comforting — a true Midwestern classic.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F / 45°C)
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until frothy (about 5 minutes). Add melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes, then cover and let rise for 1 hour.
- Cook the filling: In a skillet, brown ground beef and onions until cooked through. Add shredded cabbage, salt, and pepper. Cook until the cabbage softens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Assemble Runzas: Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a rectangle. Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling in the center, add cheese if desired, and fold edges over to seal.
- Bake: Place seam-side down on a baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for best results.
- Make sure the filling cools before assembling — hot filling can make the dough soggy.
- Seal edges tightly to prevent leaks during baking.
- You can freeze baked Runzas for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer for a crispy exterior.