Bierocks
Bierocks are savory stuffed bread pockets filled with seasoned ground beef and cabbage, offering a hearty, comforting flavor. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, they combine tender dough with flavorful filling, baked to golden perfection and brushed with butter for an irresistible finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Divide the thawed bread dough into 6 balls and set aside.
- Heat bacon drippings in a skillet over medium heat; add diced onions and cook until tender.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Stir in shredded cabbage and season with m.s.g., salt, and pepper. Cover and steam until the cabbage is wilted.
- Let the filling cool slightly before using.
- Roll and stretch each dough ball into a 5-inch square.
- Place the cooled filling in the center of each square.
- Bring opposite edges of the dough together and seal to enclose the filling.
- Place the sealed side down on a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Brush the tops of the baked bierocks with melted butter.
- Optionally, use a 20-ounce can of sauerkraut instead of cabbage.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, allow the thawed bread dough to rise slightly before shaping. If you prefer a lighter filling, consider using a mix of vegetables alongside the cabbage. You can substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want added flavor, try incorporating spices like garlic powder or paprika, or use a 20-ounce can of sauerkraut instead of cabbage.
Serving Suggestions
Serve bierocks warm as a hearty snack or main dish. They pair beautifully with a side of mustard or dipping sauces, and a fresh salad makes a great accompaniment. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside mashed potatoes or a bowl of soup. Explore more American recipes for diverse meal options.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bierocks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave them for about one minute each, but this may result in a softer crust.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bierocks contains roughly 840 calories, with 8g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 621mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze bierocks after baking?
Yes, you can freeze baked bierocks. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, bake them directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
What can I use instead of bacon drippings?
If you don't have bacon drippings, you can use unsalted butter or olive oil as a substitute. Each will provide a different flavor profile, so choose based on your preference. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable oil or coconut oil to sauté the onions and beef.
How do I know when the bierocks are done baking?
Bierocks are done baking when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. The internal filling should be hot throughout. Use a meat thermometer to check that the filling has reached a safe temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) if using ground beef.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).