Nebraska meat pies are a delightful combination of soft, buttery rolls filled with a flavorful meat and vegetable mixture. These pies are baked to perfection and make for a mouthwatering treat that you can enjoy at home. Whether as a meal or a snack, these portable and filling pies are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

The Unique Heritage of Nebraska Meat Pies

Nebraska meat pies have a rich history influenced by the local German and Russian immigrant populations. For generations, these European-style hand pies have been a staple in Nebraska’s cuisine. They are popular at restaurants and bakeries, particularly the ones known as runza.

Making Your Own Nebraska Meat Pies

Making your own Nebraska meat pies is a rewarding experience. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:

Dough Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup warm (not hot) water
• 1 packet (0.25 oz) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup milk
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for flouring
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

Filling Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
• Black pepper to taste
• 3 cups chopped green cabbage (about 1/2 large head)
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon white pepper (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

Dough Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it activate for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
2. Combine the yeast mixture with milk, melted butter, flour, and salt. Knead the dough for 4 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

Filling Instructions:

1. While the dough is rising, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or stockpot over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion, and cook for 10 minutes. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and black pepper. Transfer the mixture to a bowl.
2. Add the remaining oil to the skillet and cook the cabbage with the remaining salt for 15 minutes or until wilted. Remove from heat.
3. Add Worcestershire sauce and white pepper to the cabbage. Stir well and combine with the beef and onion mixture. Allow it to cool completely.

Putting it All Together:

1. Preheat the oven to 350˚F. Punch down the dough and divide it into 10 equal balls. Roll each ball into a 6″x8″ rectangle on a floured work surface.
2. Spoon 1/2 cup of the filling onto one half of each rectangle. Wet the edges of the dough and fold it over to meet the short ends. Pinch all edges to seal the pie.
3. Place the pies on a lined baking sheet with the sealed side down. Let them rest and rise for 20 minutes.
4. Brush the tops of the pies with melted butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve your homemade Nebraska meat pies with mustard, ketchup, or your favorite sauce for dipping.

Enjoy the delicious flavors of Nebraska meat pies in the comfort of your own home. By making these pies, you’re not only treating yourself but also making mealtime meaningful for others. When you share or contribute, you’re helping to provide meals for families in need.