Coleslaw Dressing Recipe

This Coleslaw Dressing Recipe is creamy, tangy and the perfect mix of crunch and flavor. With a blend of creamy mayo, vinegar and dry mustard, it adds a zesty bite that balances smoky, tender barbecue. Whether served on the side or piled high on a sandwich, it’s a refreshing and easy-to-make classic.

A bowl of this creamy coleslaw is a great make-ahead side dish, ideal for backyard barbecues, your next summer cookout or any time you need a quick and flavorful side dish.

Looking for another great side dish recipe? Try our Cornbread without Buttermilk and Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole both easy, comforting sides that pair well with just about any meal.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Perfect Balance of Flavors: Sweet, tangy, and slightly zesty for the ultimate coleslaw taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: The flavors get even better after a few hours in the fridge.
• Quick and Easy: Only a few minutes of prep for a delicious, homemade side dish.
• Crunchy and Refreshing: A great contrast to rich, smoky barbecue dishes.

Ingredients

Using simple spices and grocery store staples, you’re just minutes away from the best coleslaw recipe.

See the recipe card below for the exact quantities of each ingredient.

• Bag of Coleslaw Mix: This saves time and is a great balance, but you can make your own cabbage blend with and blend green cabbage and red cabbage (purple cabbage) and shredded carrots.
• Mayonnaise: Make this dressing rich and creamy and is balances by all the other flavors.
• Yellow Onion: Adds a hint of sweetness and crunch. For a sweeter and more textured option try red onions. Alternatively, use 1 teaspoon onion powder in a pinch.
• Granulated Sugar: Additional sweetness to balance the tangy flavors.
• White Vinegar: Adds a slight tang.
• Ground White Pepper: A subtle peppery and light earthy vibe. You can use ground black pepper for a stronger, spiciness.
• Salt: I tend to use sea salt but for a slightly more intense profile try a pinch of kosher salt.

For this easy coleslaw recipe, you'll want to have on hand measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls and a spatula. If making your own cabbage mixture, a sharp knife and cutting board or a mandolin.

Variations

• Mayonnaise Swap: Try Greek yogurt or blended cottage cheese for a lighter option with more protein.
• White Vinegar: Use apple cider vinegar for a fruitier tang or red wine vinegar for a sweeter one.
• Earthier Flavor: Enhance with celery seed or chopped celery for additional texture.
• Sugar Alternative: Replace with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
• Cabbage Swap: Change it up all together and make a broccoli slaw instead!
• Mix-Ins: Add a crunch with some broken up ramen noodles, sliced almonds or other fresh vegetables, like peppers or celery.

How to Make a Coleslaw Dressing

Look at how simple it is to make this classic coleslaw recipe.

In a small bowl make dressing by mixing mayonnaise, onion, sugar, vinegar, mustard powder, salt, pepper and garlic powder, then set aside.

Place cabbage mix in a large bowl and pour dressing over top. Toss well and enjoy right away or chill for 2 hours for best flavor every single time.

Hint: Enrich the taste and soften the cabbage slightly by chilling.

Recipe Tips

• Adjust the Dressing: If you prefer a creamier coleslaw, add more mayo. For a tangier version, increase the vinegar.
• Homemade Slaw: Freshly shredded cabbage has better texture than pre-packaged mixes.
• Taste and Adjust: Everyone has a different taste preference, tweak the seasoning to your liking.

For outdoor get-togethers, our Guac and Chips is a classic dish that’s always a hit.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freezer: If you must freeze extra slaw, store in a freezer bag to remove all the air to help prevent texture changes when thawed.

Serving Suggestions

• Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Add a nice crunch on our Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls, and our BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders on brioche buns. Or ditch the buns all together and serve alongside our Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork for a tender pork recipe.
• Outdoor Sides: Baked Mac and Cheese, Classic Potato Salad, Tuna Salad and Pasta Salad.

Coleslaw Dressing Recipe FAQs