The Best Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw

Hey, friend! Ever bite into a bowl of coleslaw and feel like you’re at a perfect summer barbecue, even if it’s just a random Tuesday? Let me share the best old-fashioned creamy coleslaw, a classic side that’s crisp, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying. I whipped this up for a family picnic last summer, and it was gone faster than my uncle’s stories about “the good old days”! Ready to make a coleslaw that’s as easy as it is delicious? Let’s get mixing!

Why This Coleslaw is a Total Crowd-Pleaser

So, what’s the big deal with this coleslaw? It’s not just a side dish—it’s a crisp, creamy classic that pairs with everything from burgers to fried chicken. I mean, who doesn’t love that perfect crunch? Here’s why this recipe rocks:

Super Quick: Ready in 15 minutes, perfect for last-minute gatherings or lazy weeknights.
Classic Flavors: Cabbage and creamy dressing deliver that nostalgic taste we all crave.
Versatile: Complements BBQs, sandwiches, or even tacos—talk about a team player!
Make-Ahead Magic: Tastes even better after chilling, so you can prep early and chill (pun intended).

Ever wonder why coleslaw is a staple at every potluck? It’s that unbeatable mix of crunchy veggies and tangy dressing that makes every bite pure joy.

The Magic of Cabbage and Creamy Dressing

The stars here are cabbage and a creamy, tangy dressing. Cabbage brings that crisp, refreshing crunch, while the dressing adds a perfect balance of sweet and zesty. I learned the hard way that overmixing can make it soggy—toss just enough to coat. It’s like a little bowl of summer in every bite!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Alright, let’s talk ingredients. This coleslaw is all about simple, everyday stuff, so you won’t need to raid a fancy market. Here’s what you’ll grab:

1 medium head green cabbage, finely shredded (about 8 cups)
2 large carrots, grated
¾ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional: ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Optional: ½ tsp celery seed for extra flavor 🙂

Substitutions That Work

No green cabbage? Use red cabbage or a mix for a colorful twist. Out of sour cream? Greek yogurt adds a similar tang. Want it vegan? Swap mayonnaise and sour cream for plant-based versions. The key is that creamy, tangy dressing, so don’t skimp on the vinegar or mayo!

Step-by-Step: How to Make Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw

Ready to mix? This is so easy, you’ll wonder why you ever bought store-bought coleslaw. Here’s how to nail it:

Step 1: Prep the Veggies

Shred the cabbage finely using a sharp knife or food processor. Aim for thin, even strips.
Grate the carrots and toss them with the cabbage in a large bowl.
Give the veggies a quick fluff to mix them evenly.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

Whisk the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and celery seed (if using) in a medium bowl until smooth.
Taste the dressing and adjust the sugar or vinegar for your perfect sweet-tangy balance.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

Pour └the dressing over the cabbage and carrots. Toss gently to coat evenly.
Avoid overmixing to keep the veggies crisp and not soggy.
Sprinkle with parsley or green onions for a fresh, colorful finish.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
Serve chilled alongside your favorite mains or as a sandwich topper.
Enjoy that crisp, creamy goodness!

Pro tip: I once skipped chilling the coleslaw, and it just wasn’t as flavorful. Give it that hour in the fridge to let the magic happen!

Tips for Nailing Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw

Wanna make this coleslaw next-level? Here are my go-to tricks:

Shred Finely: Thinly sliced cabbage ensures the perfect crunch. Too thick, and it feels like a workout to chew.
Balance the Dressing: Taste the dressing before mixing to get that sweet-tangy vibe just right.
Chill It: Refrigerating for at least 1 hour melds the flavors and keeps it crisp. Patience pays off!
Don’t Overmix: Toss the veggies lightly to avoid a soggy mess. Less is more here.
Add Crunch: Throw in some sunflower seeds or slivered almonds for extra texture, IMO.

Ever wonder why homemade coleslaw tastes so much better than store-bought? It’s the fresh veggies and that perfectly balanced dressing that make all the difference.

Variations to Mix It Up

Bored of the classic? Try these twists to keep things fresh:

Spicy Coleslaw

Add 1 diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a fiery kick.

Sweet Pineapple Coleslaw

Mix in ½ cup crushed pineapple (drained) for a tropical, sweet twist that’s perfect for BBQs.

Apple Coleslaw

Swap carrots for 1 grated apple for a crisp, slightly sweet variation.

Creamy Dill Coleslaw

Add 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill to the dressing for an herby, refreshing flavor.

Storing and Serving Like a Pro

Got leftovers? You’re in luck! Here’s how to keep that coleslaw fresh:

Storing: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors get even better!
Freezing: Freezing isn’t ideal, as it makes the cabbage soggy. Best to enjoy fresh or refrigerated.
Serving: Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing. Add a fresh sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color.

I’ve used leftover coleslaw as a taco topping, and it was a total game-changer. Keep it chilled for that crisp texture!

FAQs About Old-Fashioned Creamy Coleslaw

Got questions? I’ve got you covered. Here’s what folks usually ask:

Can I use bagged coleslaw mix?

Yup! Pre-shredded coleslaw mix saves time—just use about 8 cups and check for freshness.

Why is my coleslaw watery?

You might’ve skipped draining the cabbage. After shredding, let it sit in a colander for 10 minutes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Totally! Prep the coleslaw and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. It tastes better after chilling.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your mayonnaise and mustard are gluten-free. Always check labels!

What’s a good main dish to pair with this?

This coleslaw shines with fried chicken, pulled pork, or grilled fish. I love it with a BBQ sandwich for a classic combo

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Final Thoughts

So, there you have it—the best old-fashioned creamy coleslaw, a crisp, tangy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s like a little bowl of nostalgia, ready to elevate your BBQs, weeknight dinners, or even tacos. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something refreshing, this coleslaw delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Grab your cabbage, mix up that dressing, and get ready for a side that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. What’s stopping you from making this today? 🙂