How to Make Homemade Coleslaw

If you’re looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing homemade coleslaw recipe, you’re in the right place. This one is creamy, crisp, and full of flavor with just a few easy ingredients.

I recently showed my husband how to make this homemade coleslaw, and now he’s hooked! He loves the contrast of the crisp cabbage and carrots paired with the creamy dressing. My quick and easy recipe uses a mix of green and purple cabbage for color and crunch, all tossed in a simple, flavorful homemade dressing.

With his southern roots, it was important that this coleslaw passed his taste test, and it did! I’m confident that once you try this American classic coleslaw recipe, it’ll become your go-to coleslaw recipe no matter where you’re from. Whether you’re piling it onto a pulled pork sandwich, serving it alongside burgers, or adding crunch to brisket tacos, this coleslaw will take your backyard barbecues to the next level.

Ingredients For The Perfect Homemade Coleslaw:

With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up this easy coleslaw recipe in minutes. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bag of Coleslaw Mix: I usually grab the pre-shredded cabbage mixture with green and red cabbage because it’s quick, easy, and tastes just as good as shredding it yourself. If you’re feeling ambitious, go ahead and slice your own with a sharp knife, food processor, or mandolin.
• Mayonnaise: This part really matters. I swear by Duke’s Mayo for the best flavor. Hellman’s is a decent substitute if that’s what you have on hand, but steer clear of light or avocado mayo unless you don’t mind changing the taste.
• Shredded Carrots: They add a little sweetness and crunch, and I love the pop of color they bring.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Just the right amount of tang to balance out the creamy dressing. If you’re out, lemon juice or white vinegar will work in a pinch.
• Sugar: Just a touch to round everything out and keep it from tasting too sharp.
• Salt and Pepper: A must for bringing all the flavors together.
• Celery Seed: Optional, but it gives the slaw that classic, savory flavor that makes it taste like the real deal.

How to Make Easy Homemade Coleslaw:

Making coleslaw at home couldn’t be easier. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a creamy, crunchy side dish in minutes.

1. Whisk: combine ACV, Sugar, Mayo, Salt, Pepper, and Celery Salt in a large bowl and stir until well combined.
2. Toss: Add your vegetables into the coleslaw dressing and mix until well combined.
3. Enjoy: It’s as easy as that!

That’s it! In just a few steps, you’ll have a fresh, flavorful coleslaw ready to serve with your favorite meals.

Why Is My Coleslaw Watery?

Coleslaw can get watery if it sits too long before serving. That’s because the salt in the dressing pulls moisture from the cabbage over time. For the best texture, try serving it within 4 hours of making it, or at least within a day. Give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing!

Can I Shred My Own Cabbage?

Absolutely! Just use four parts green cabbage, one part purple cabbage, and one part shredded carrot. Even when I use a store-bought coleslaw mix, I like to toss in extra carrot, it’s usually a little skimpy straight from the bag.

What Goes Well With Coleslaw?

Coleslaw is especially popular with barbecue meals, but try it at any potluck or picnic as well! Whether you’re enjoying Pulled Pork Sandwiches, simple Grilled Chicken, hearty Smoked Ribs, our creamy coleslaw is the perfect cool and crunchy accompaniment.

Other BBQ Side Dishes You’re Sure To Love

Watch How to Make Coleslaw…