Easy Creamy Coleslaw: 1 Amazing Recipe

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Creamy coleslaw has been a staple at my summer barbecues for as long as I can remember. There’s just something about that perfect balance of crunchy cabbage, zesty dressing, and a hint of sweetness that makes it irresistible. I’ve tried countless versions, but this easy creamy coleslaw recipe is the one that always gets rave reviews. It’s so simple to whip up, and the creamy, tangy dressing coats every single shred of cabbage and carrot beautifully. Get ready to impress your friends and family because we’re about to make the best creamy coleslaw together!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Coleslaw

It’s incredibly quick to make, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
The dressing is a delightful balance of tangy, sweet, and savory.
You’ll get that satisfying crunch in every bite.
This creamy coleslaw recipe is versatile enough for any meal.
It’s the ideal accompaniment to grilled meats and sandwiches.
Making this homemade creamy coleslaw is so satisfying and easy.
The flavors meld beautifully, making it even better the next day.
It’s a crowd-pleasing classic that never goes out of style.

Ingredients for Creamy Coleslaw

Whipping up this delicious creamy coleslaw is a breeze with just a few key ingredients. The secret to a fantastic creamy coleslaw dressing lies in the perfect ratio of mayonnaise and sour cream, giving it that signature richness. Here’s what you’ll need for this easy creamy coleslaw recipe:

3/4 cup mayonnaise – the base for our rich, creamy coleslaw with mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream – adds a lovely tang and extra creaminess
2.5 tablespoons white vinegar – provides the essential zesty bite
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard – for a subtle savory depth and emulsification
3 teaspoons granulated sugar – balances the acidity and enhances sweetness
1 teaspoon celery salt – brings a classic, savory flavor
1/4 teaspoon onion powder – a little goes a long way for oniony goodness
Pepper to taste – freshly ground or pre-ground, for that perfect finishing touch
14–16 ounces coleslaw mix (green & red cabbage + carrots) – the crunchy foundation of our salad

How to Make Creamy Coleslaw

Learning how to make creamy coleslaw is a game-changer for any cook! This recipe is so straightforward, you’ll be whipping it up in no time. It’s a truly quick creamy coleslaw that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step 1: Begin by creating the star of the show: the creamy coleslaw dressing. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 2.5 tablespoons white vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 3 teaspoons granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon celery salt, and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder. Keep whisking until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Now for the crucial taste test! Dip a spoon into the dressing and give it a taste. Adjust the seasonings as needed – maybe a pinch more sugar for sweetness, a bit more vinegar for tang, or a grind of pepper. This step ensures your homemade creamy coleslaw is perfectly balanced to your liking.
Step 3: Take your 14–16 ounces of coleslaw mix (that’s the shredded cabbage and carrots) and place it into a large mixing bowl. Make sure the bowl is big enough to toss everything without making a mess.
Step 4: Pour the glorious, creamy dressing you just made over the coleslaw mix. Grab a large spoon or tongs and gently toss everything together. You want to make sure every single shred of cabbage and carrot gets coated in that delicious dressing. This is how to make creamy coleslaw that’s truly irresistible.
Step 5: For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the creamy coleslaw for at least 30 minutes, or ideally a few hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften just slightly, creating that perfect texture. If you’re in a rush, you can certainly serve it immediately, but trust me, the wait is worth it for this quick creamy coleslaw!

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Coleslaw

Achieving that perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and tangy is easier than you think with these insider tips. They’ll elevate your salad from good to absolutely unforgettable, making it the benchmark for a creamy coleslaw recipe.

Always use fresh, crisp cabbage. Pre-shredded mixes are convenient, but shredding your own cabbage and carrots from scratch can yield a superior crunch.
Don’t skip the chilling time! Letting the coleslaw sit in the fridge allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more cohesive and delicious taste.
Taste and adjust the dressing before mixing with the cabbage. This is your chance to perfect the balance of sweet, tangy, and savory for your best coleslaw dressing recipe.
For added texture and flavor, consider adding finely chopped celery or a pinch of smoked paprika to the dressing.

What’s the secret to perfect creamy coleslaw?

The magic is in the dressing’s balance and the chilling time. For a truly simple coleslaw recipe, ensure your mayonnaise and sour cream are at room temperature for smoother mixing. This allows the flavors to marry perfectly. For more salad inspiration, check out these delicious food ideas.

Can I make creamy coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! I often make my creamy coleslaw a few hours or even the day before a gathering. It gives the flavors time to meld, and the cabbage softens just slightly while retaining a great crunch.

How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy coleslaw?

A common pitfall is a watery coleslaw. This usually happens from over-salting or the dressing not being emulsified. Ensure you’re using a good ratio in your easy coleslaw dressing and avoid adding extra salt until the very end, if at all. A good mayonnaise is key.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Coleslaw

This versatile creamy coleslaw is fantastic alongside so many dishes. It’s the perfect refreshing counterpoint to rich, savory flavors. For a true taste of tradition, serve it as a classic side with barbecue ribs or pulled pork sandwiches, evoking that authentic Southern creamy coleslaw vibe. It’s also incredibly delicious piled generously on top of fish tacos or a hearty pulled chicken sandwich, adding a cool, crunchy contrast. Don’t forget it as a go-to for potlucks and picnics; it pairs wonderfully with fried chicken, burgers, and corn on the cob. You can find more great side dish ideas here.

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Coleslaw

Per serving (recipe makes 8 servings):

Calories: 210
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 350mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of mayonnaise and sour cream. This information helps you understand the general profile of this delicious creamy coleslaw. For more information on healthy eating, consider consulting resources on nutrition guidelines.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Coleslaw

Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious creamy coleslaw for days to come. Once you’ve made this fantastic homemade creamy coleslaw dressing, let the salad cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This prevents condensation, which can make your coleslaw soggy. You can confidently store it in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, and the flavors will actually meld even more beautifully during this time. Unfortunately, freezing isn’t recommended, as the mayonnaise-based dressing tends to separate and the cabbage will lose its signature crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Coleslaw

What is creamy coleslaw?

Creamy coleslaw is a classic American salad featuring shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in a rich, creamy dressing, typically made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and seasonings. It’s loved for its crunchy texture and tangy-sweet flavor profile, making it a popular side dish at barbecues and picnics.

Is this a healthy creamy coleslaw recipe?

While this recipe is delicious, you can make it a healthy creamy coleslaw by using lighter versions of mayonnaise and sour cream, or by incorporating ingredients like Greek yogurt for added protein and fewer calories. We’ve focused on flavor, but modifications are easy!

Can I use a different type of cabbage for creamy coleslaw?

Absolutely! While the standard coleslaw mix of green and red cabbage with carrots is fantastic, feel free to experiment. Napa cabbage offers a softer crunch, while savoy cabbage has a lovely texture. You can even add finely shredded broccoli or Brussels sprouts for extra nutrients and flavor. For more cabbage varieties, see this guide to cabbage.

How do I make the creamy coleslaw dressing thicker or thinner?

To thicken your creamy coleslaw dressing, simply add a little more mayonnaise or sour cream, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, thin it out with a splash more vinegar or a bit of milk until it coats the vegetables perfectly.

Variations of Creamy Coleslaw You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic creamy coleslaw, the possibilities are endless! I love experimenting with different flavors and textures to keep things exciting. For a delightful twist, try adding grilled corn and black beans for a Southwestern flair, or toss in some chopped Granny Smith apples and toasted pecans for a sweet and crunchy variation. If you’re looking for a vegan creamy coleslaw option, simply swap the mayonnaise and sour cream for a good quality vegan mayonnaise and a dollop of unsweetened vegan yogurt. And for those who might not be fans of cabbage, or if you’re out of it, you can create a delicious slaw using shredded Brussels sprouts or even a mix of finely chopped broccoli stems and carrots – it’s a fantastic creamy coleslaw without cabbage alternative that still delivers that satisfying crunch!