Are you looking for a warm and beefy dinner? The Pioneer Woman Runza Casserole Recipe is a fantastic choice.

This dish is very hearty and very comforting. It is a classic take on the famous Nebraska sandwich.

Many people love the mix of beef and cabbage. You only need a few simple items for this meal.

This Pioneer Woman Runza Casserole Recipe uses ground beef and crescent rolls. The melted cheese makes it very gooey and delicious.

Your family will love this fluffy and savory meat pie. Learning how to make Pioneer Woman Runza Casserole is simple.

It is a great way to feed a crowd. Enjoy making this Pioneer Woman Runza Casserole Recipe tonight!

When I first introduced to Pioneer Woman Runza Casserole

I first tried this dish at a potluck lunch. The smell of toasted bread and beef was amazing.

It looked so golden and very puffy in the pan. I took a big slice and loved the taste. The crust was soft and the beef was juicy.

It tasted just like the famous hand-held meat pies. It felt like a cozy Sunday meal on a weekday.

I knew I had to make it for myself. I searched for a recipe that saved much time. Then I found Ree Drummond’s easy runza bake version.

It is now my favorite meal for cold nights. My family asks for it every single month now.

Equipment List

One large skillet to cook the meat.
A 9 by 13-inch glass baking dish.
A sharp knife to chop the cabbage.
A wooden spoon for stirring the beef.
Measuring cups for the onion and cheese.
A colander to drain the meat fat.
Rolling pin to flatten the dough slightly.

Ingredients You Need for Pioneer Woman Runza Casserole

2 pounds of lean ground beef.
2 cans (8 ounces) of refrigerated crescent rolls.
1 medium yellow onion (finely diced).
4 cups of shredded green cabbage.
2 cups of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
1 teaspoon of kosher salt.
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
1/4 cup of beef broth (optional).
2 tablespoons of melted butter for the top.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Brown the Beef

Heat your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and the diced onions. Cook until the meat is brown and crumbled.

2. Add the Cabbage

Stir in the shredded cabbage and the beef broth. Cover the pan and let it steam for a bit. The cabbage should become very soft and clear.

3. Season the Meat

Add the salt, pepper, and garlic powder to meat. Stir everything together well in the large pan. This creates the savory filling for your dish.

4. Drain the Fat

Carefully pour off any extra grease from the pan. This keeps the bottom crust from getting too soggy. Return the pan to the stove.

5. Prep the Bottom

Unroll one can of crescent rolls in the dish. Press the seams together to make one sheet. This forms the base of your meat casserole.

6. Layer the Filling

Spread the beef and cabbage mixture over the dough. Sprinkle all of the shredded cheese over the meat. This makes the dish very rich and gooey.

7. Add the Top

Unroll the second can of crescent rolls on top. Stretch the dough to cover all the meat layers. Pinch the edges to seal the meat inside.

8. Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Brush the top with melted butter for a golden look. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until puffy.

Tips to Make the Best Pioneer Woman Runza Casserole

Drain the meat: Too much grease makes the dough very wet.
Seal the seams: Pinch the dough well so meat stays inside.

Chop cabbage fine: Small bits blend better with the beef.
Use lean beef: 90% lean meat is the best choice here.
Add a glaze: Brush butter on top for a shiny crust.

Let it rest: Wait five minutes before you slice the squares.
Cheese choice: Mozzarella is mild but cheddar adds more tang.
Extra flavor: Add a little Worcestershire sauce to the beef.

FAQs about Pioneer Woman Runza Casserole

Can I use bread dough instead?

Yes, you can use frozen bread dough for this. Just make sure to let the dough rise first.

How do I store the leftovers?

Put them in a sealed container in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to three days.

Can I make this dish ahead?

Yes, you can cook the meat filling a day early. Assemble and bake when you are ready to eat.

Why is my bottom crust soggy?

You may have left too much juice in meat. Drain the beef and cabbage very well next time.

Is this dish very spicy?

No, it is very mild and savory for kids. You can add red pepper flakes for heat.

Final Thoughts

The Pioneer Woman Runza Casserole Recipe is a true winter winner. It is easy to make and very filling.

The mix of soft bread and beef is perfect. You will love how it warms up the house. It is the best meal for a hungry family.

Now you know how to make Pioneer Woman Runza Casserole. Gather your ingredients for Pioneer Woman Runza Casserole today.

Your kitchen will smell like a warm country bakery. This recipe is a great way to enjoy dinner.

Have a wonderful time cooking this tasty beef dish!