Microwaving Cabbage Rolls
Creamy, savory cabbage rolls with tender beef and rice, topped with tomato sauce and sauerkraut, perfect for a comforting, family-friendly meal that can be quickly prepared in the microwave.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cabbage leaves and water in a large bowl and cover with plastic wrap.
- Microwave on High for 5 minutes to soften the cabbage leaves.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of condensed tomato soup.
- Divide the meat mixture among the softened cabbage leaves.
- Fold in the sides of each leaf and roll up, securing with toothpicks.
- Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in a 12 x 18-inch baking dish.
- Mix remaining tomato soup and drained sauerkraut; pour over the cabbage rolls.
- Cover the dish loosely with plastic wrap.
- Microwave on High for 12 to 17 minutes, turning the dish once during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the cabbage leaves are fully softened before rolling. If you don't have toothpicks, you can use kitchen twine to secure the rolls. For a healthier version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream on top for creaminess. They pair wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Beefy Easy or a classic mashed potato dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can add a nice touch of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. They can also be reheated in a conventional oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwaving Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 330 calories, with 11g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (173% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (52% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1778mg per serving (77% 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 leftover cabbage rolls?
Yes, you can freeze leftover cabbage rolls! After they have cooled completely, place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then microwave or bake until heated through.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup on hand, you can substitute it with a homemade mixture of crushed tomatoes and spices. Combine 1 cup of crushed tomatoes with a teaspoon of sugar, a pinch of salt, and Italian herbs for a similar flavor. This works well in both the filling and the sauce over the cabbage rolls.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are fully cooked?
The cabbage rolls are fully cooked when the meat inside reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, and the cabbage is tender. If you're unsure, you can cut one open to check that the meat is no longer pink and the rice is heated through. The cooking time may vary based on your microwave's wattage.
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).