Creamy coleslaw is a timeless side dish that brings a refreshing crunch to any meal. With its creamy, tangy dressing and crisp cabbage, it pairs perfectly with everything from BBQ ribs to fried chicken, making it a staple at summer picnics, family gatherings, and cookouts. The balance of sweetness, tanginess, and creaminess makes this dish not only delicious but also incredibly versatile.
The base of a classic creamy coleslaw is finely shredded cabbage, usually a mix of green and purple cabbage to add both color and texture. The cabbage provides a perfect crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing. Carrots are often added for a pop of color and a subtle sweetness, making the texture even more interesting. For those who like a bit of extra flavor, diced onions or bell peppers can be included to add more depth.
The creamy dressing is the heart of the coleslaw, typically made from mayonnaise, a touch of sour cream or buttermilk for added richness, and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for tanginess. A little bit of sugar helps to balance out the acidity, giving the coleslaw a well-rounded sweetness. Dijon mustard or mustard powder can also be added to give it a slight kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
For an extra burst of flavor, seasonings such as celery seed, garlic powder, and salt and pepper are essential. These ingredients bring warmth and depth to the coleslaw, ensuring the dressing is as flavorful as it is creamy. The best part is how customizable coleslaw is — you can adjust the sweetness, acidity, and spices to suit your taste.
Creamy coleslaw is best when it’s allowed to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld together and lets the cabbage soften slightly, making it even more enjoyable. Whether you serve it as a side to a hearty meal or as a refreshing topping for sandwiches and tacos, creamy coleslaw is a dish that’s sure to please everyone. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and crunchy, and an essential addition to any summer spread.

Ingredients
- 6 cups cabbage shredded
- 2 cups carrots grated
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
This coleslaw recipe is a game changer! Super easy and delish. Will definitely make it again!
Really? I found it a bit too sweet for my taste. Maybe I’ll cut back on the sugar next time.
I totally agree! This coleslaw is the best! So simple yet packed with flavor. I’ve made it for every barbecue this summer!
This is the best coleslaw recipe I’ve ever tried! So creamy and delicious!
This was a hit at my family gathering! Everyone asked for the recipe. Thanks!
Coleslaw is just cabbage, right? My kids didn’t eat it.
Didn’t turn out right, I added too much vinegar. Now it’s sour. 🤮
I don’t know, it’s not that special. I prefer my coleslaw with a bit of crunch.
I don’t know, this seems a bit too creamy for my liking. Maybe add more vinegar?
Easy to make. Perfect for BBQs! Don’t forget to let it chill!
Absolutely! I love how refreshing it is at BBQs, and chilling really does make a difference!
Not enough crunch for me. I like my coleslaw with some nuts in it. Just saying!
Easy to make, but I accidentally put in too much sugar! Oops! Still tasted good though! 😅
Haha, that’s what makes cooking fun! Just a little sweetness can go a long way. Glad it still turned out tasty! 😊
Too much sugar? That’s a rookie mistake! Might have ended up more like a dessert coleslaw lol.
Pretty good. But I think it needs a little more vinegar or something, felt a bit bland.
I agree! A dash more vinegar could really amp up the flavor. It’s all about finding the right balance!
Yummy! I used Greek yogurt instead of mayo, turned out great! 💖
This coleslaw is fabulous! Turned out just like my grandma used to make. Perfect for BBQs!
Looks easy, but I don’t like mayo. Any ideas for a substitute?
So glad to hear that! Grandma’s recipes are the best! ❤️
Not really a fan of coleslaw, but this one was tolerable. Maybe I just don’t like it that much?
Easy and delicious! Added some raisins and it was perfect. 🍽️
This coleslaw recipe is a hit at every family BBQ! I love the creaminess from the mayo. Definitely 5 stars!
I followed the recipe but it turned out kinda bland. Maybe more vinegar or spices next time?
I think you’re onto something! A bit more vinegar or some celery seed could really bring it to life. Glad you tried it though!
Coleslaw is simply cabbage salad to me. Why all the fuss?
Meh, cabbage is gross. Who eats cabbage anyway? 🤢
Cabbage is for rabbits. I don’t eat that. Thumbs down! 👎
Cabbage can be great in salads! I think it’s all about how you prepare it. Give coleslaw a try, you might be surprised! 😊
Lol, but rabbits eat lettuce too. Cabbage can be really tasty if done right! 👍
I don’t understand why people like coleslaw so much. It’s just cabbage and mayo. 🤷♂️
Coleslaw is more than just cabbage and mayo! It’s all about the crunch and the dressing! You should give it another try!
Super easy to make! I used Greek yogurt instead of mayo and it was still delish!
Absolutely loved this recipe! The coleslaw was creamy and delicious. Perfect for our BBQ!
Yum! Refreshing and crunchy! Just used too much sugar, maybe try less next time.