Ultimate Runza Casserole Crescent

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

This crowd-pleasing dish pairs a savory mix of ground beef, shredded cabbage, and onions, layered between flaky crescent roll dough and topped with melty mozzarella cheese. After baking to golden perfection, each slice delivers comforting textures and flavors—a balance of buttery crust, juicy filling, and warm cheese. Serve slightly cooled for an easy, satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Simple steps and classic ingredients make this casserole a hands-down favorite for sharing.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Sat, 07 Jun 2025 22:19:26 GMT
A close up of a delicious looking Ultimate Runza Casserole. Save
A close up of a delicious looking Ultimate Runza Casserole. | lilicooks.com

This Runza casserole offers all the classic flavors of the beloved Midwest sandwich in oven-baked comfort casserole form Layered with fluffy crescent rolls savory ground beef sweet onions tender cabbage and gooey cheese this is pure family comfort you can prep in minutes

I whipped this up when we had a houseful of hungry relatives in winter and it disappeared before lunch was even over

Ingredients

  • Refrigerated crescent rolls: their buttery layers mimic homemade dough and bake up flaky in less time make sure to use fresh dough for best rise
  • Ground beef: the hearty base of the dish look for eighty five percent or leaner for less grease but full flavor
  • Butter: adds rich flavor and helps soften the onions go for unsalted so you control the salt
  • Green cabbage: shredded brings sweetness and a tender bite fresh heads keep their crunch and cook down beautifully
  • Yellow onion: the aromatic backbone choose a large firm onion for deeper flavor
  • Shredded Mozzarella cheese: for melt utterly creamy go for whole milk mozzarella when you can
  • Kosher salt and black pepper: these enhance all the flavors use freshly cracked pepper for a subtle kick

Step by Step Instructions

Make the Filling:
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add the onions Stir gently for four to five minutes until they turn clear but not browned this brings out their sweetness
Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef to the onions and season with salt and pepper Break up the beef and cook for about eight minutes until it is fully browned and no pink remains
Cook the Cabbage:
Stir in the shredded cabbage with the beef mixture Cook for seven to ten minutes stirring often until the cabbage becomes soft and golden and releases its flavor
Prepare the Bottom Crust:
Unroll one package of crescent rolls and arrange the dough in a nine by thirteen inch baking dish Pinch the seams together with your fingers to create an even crust
Layer the Filling:
Spread the hot beef onion cabbage mixture evenly over the crescent roll crust making sure it covers every corner for the perfect bite in every slice
Cheese Layer:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the hot meat and cabbage so it melts beautifully while baking
Top Crust:
Place the second package of crescent rolls on top of the filling pressing the seams together to create a single sheet that will bake golden and hold everything together
Bake:
Transfer the dish to a preheated oven at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes until the top is deeply golden and flaky
Rest and Serve:
Let the casserole cool for at least ten minutes out of the oven This makes it easier to slice and helps everything set up perfectly
A close up of a delicious looking Ultimate Runza Casserole. Save
A close up of a delicious looking Ultimate Runza Casserole. | lilicooks.com

Every time I use vibrant fresh cabbage it reminds me of my grandmother’s garden where we first picked cabbage for Runzas on chilly fall afternoons It is the fresh crispness that makes this dish extra special

Storage Tips

Store leftovers tightly wrapped or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days For longer storage slice and freeze portions then reheat in a covered dish in the oven until heated through

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need a lighter option replace the ground beef with ground turkey or even a plant based crumble Mix up the cheese using cheddar or colby jack for a stronger punch For gluten free needs use your favorite gluten free crescent dough

Serving Suggestions

Serve your ultimate Runza casserole with a side of crunchy pickles or a fresh green salad For a cozy complete meal I love offering it with a big bowl of tomato soup on the side

A close up of a delicious looking Ultimate Runza Casserole. Save
A close up of a delicious looking Ultimate Runza Casserole. | lilicooks.com

Cultural Historical Context

Runza sandwiches are Nebraska’s claim to fame inspired by Eastern European bierocks This casserole version preserves all the tradition but skips the folding and fuss of individual buns making it perfect for busy families and potlucks

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute mozzarella with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for varied flavors.

→ How do I keep the crescent roll crust from getting soggy?

Make sure to cook off any extra liquid from the beef and cabbage. This keeps the bottom crust pleasantly flaky.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture.

→ Is it possible to add more vegetables?

Yes, diced bell pepper or mushrooms can be added when sautéing the onion for additional flavor and nutrition.

→ What can I serve alongside this casserole?

Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Ultimate Runza Casserole Crescent

Juicy beef and cabbage nestled in golden crescent rolls, finished with bubbling melted cheese.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
55 min
Overall Time
70 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 1 casserole (approximately 8 servings)

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

01 2 packages refrigerated crescent rolls
02 2 pounds ground beef
03 2 tablespoons butter
04 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
05 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
06 1.5 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese
07 Kosher salt, to taste
08 Black pepper, to taste

Steps

Step 01

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 02

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 03

Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

Step 04

Stir in shredded cabbage. Cook until tender and golden, approximately 7-10 minutes.

Step 05

Roll out 1 package of crescent rolls in a 9x13-inch dish, pressing seams together.

Step 06

Evenly distribute the beef-cabbage mixture over the crescent roll crust.

Step 07

Top the beef-cabbage mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 08

Cover with the second package of crescent rolls, pressing seams together.

Step 09

Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Step 10

Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Required Tools

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Oven

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy
  • Contains gluten

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 410
  • Fats: 25.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18.5 g
  • Proteins: 24.7 g