One bite of this Creamy Coleslaw Recipe and you’ll understand why it’s a cherished classic at picnics, potlucks, and weeknight dinners alike. Every forkful strikes the perfect balance between crisp, fresh veggies and a dreamy, tangy dressing that clings to each strand. Whether you’re piling it high on barbecue plates or enjoying a chilled afternoon snack, this is truly the coleslaw you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how much flavor comes together in the Creamy Coleslaw Recipe. Each one plays an important role, lending crunch, brightness, or that unmistakable creamy finish only true coleslaw delivers.

White cabbage: The main crunch! Use half a large head or one small, finely sliced for that iconic slaw texture.
Carrots: They add vibrant color and subtle sweetness to balance the tang of the dressing.
Brown onion: Just a little bit, finely grated, gives welcome sharpness and depth.
Mayonnaise: The creamy backbone of your dressing, providing a luscious base that brings everything together.
Sour cream: For a slight tang and silkiness, adding extra body to the dressing.
White wine vinegar: Brings a bright splash of acidity that lifts the whole dish.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and draws moisture (and sweetness) from the veggies.
Granulated or superfine sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the vinegar and complements the carrots.
Mustard powder: Adds nuanced warmth and a subtle kick to the dressing.
White pepper: Just a pinch for gentle heat without changing the classic color or flavor.

How to Make Creamy Coleslaw Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by grabbing your sharpest knife or, for truly paper-thin textures, a trusty mandoline. Thinly slice the cabbage into delicate shreds and cut the carrots into fine julienne strips. This is what gives the Creamy Coleslaw Recipe its classic bite and that fresh, irresistible crunch. Transfer your veggies to a big mixing bowl so there’s plenty of space to toss everything together.

Step 2: Grate the Onion

Take your peeled onion quarter and grate it on the fine side of a box grater. This lets the onion mingle seamlessly throughout the coleslaw, lending punchy savoriness without overpowering the salad. Add the finely grated onion straight into your bowl with the cabbage and carrots.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

It doesn’t get easier—or more delicious—than whisking the dressing right in the same bowl. Dollop in the mayonnaise and sour cream, then pour over the white wine vinegar. Sprinkle in the salt, sugar, mustard powder, and a pinch of white pepper. This simple combo transforms the slaw from humble veggies to creamy, flavorful perfection.

Step 4: Mix Well

Now, this is the moment where the Creamy Coleslaw Recipe really comes alive. Use a big spoon (or your clean hands, if you want to get rustic) to mix thoroughly, making sure every strand is coated in the luscious dressing. It’s worth the extra minute to combine well—no dry bites allowed!

Step 5: Serve or Store

Your Creamy Coleslaw Recipe is good to go! Serve it right away for maximum crunch, or, if you prefer a slightly more marinated slaw, chill it for an hour or two. Just cover tightly and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to dig in.

How to Serve Creamy Coleslaw Recipe

Garnishes

Jazz up your bowl of Creamy Coleslaw Recipe with a little extra flair. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for color, scatter over some cracked black pepper, or dust with an extra pinch of mustard powder for a hint more warmth. Want to go bold? Paper-thin slices of red chili or a handful of toasted sunflower seeds can add crunch or gentle heat.

Side Dishes

Coleslaw is the ultimate supporting act for so many meals. Serve it alongside smoky barbecue, fried chicken, burgers, or as an unexpected bright side to spicy tacos. It’s just as at home next to saucy ribs as it is tucked in a lunchbox with cold cuts and crusty bread. Versatility is one of the Creamy Coleslaw Recipe’s secret superpowers!

Creative Ways to Present

Sometimes presentation makes all the difference. Pile the slaw high on a rustic wooden platter, tuck it into lettuce cups for a handheld bite, or stuff it generously into pulled pork sandwiches. For picnics, mason jars make adorable single serves, while for parties, vibrant dishes show off the coleslaw’s colorful crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Creamy Coleslaw Recipe fresh, just transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and tuck them into the fridge. The coleslaw will stay crisp and delicious for two to three days—just give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Freezing

While most coleslaws aren’t freezer-friendly (the cabbage can get watery and limp), if you do want to plan ahead, you can prep the sliced veggies and freeze them in a sealed bag. Simply thaw, pat dry, and toss with fresh dressing when you’re ready. For best texture and flavor, always assemble fresh if possible.

Reheating

Good news: The Creamy Coleslaw Recipe is a no-heat wonder and is meant to be served cold. If you’ve stored leftovers, just bring your portion out of the fridge a few minutes before serving to take the chill off—no microwave needed!

FAQs

Can I use purple cabbage instead of white cabbage?

Absolutely! Purple cabbage brings even more vibrant color and a slightly sweeter flavor to your Creamy Coleslaw Recipe. You can swap all or half for a gorgeous, rainbow-hued salad that’s sure to catch everyone’s eye.

What if I don’t have a mandoline?

No problem at all! A sharp chef’s knife will do the trick. Just slice your cabbage and carrots as thinly as possible for that classic, delicate coleslaw crunch. Take your time—it’s worth it!

Is there a lighter version of the Creamy Coleslaw Recipe?

For a lighter touch, substitute light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for some (or all) of the regular mayo and sour cream. You’ll get a creamy dressing with fewer calories, and it still tastes amazing.

How far in advance can I make this?

You can make your Creamy Coleslaw Recipe up to a day ahead. Just keep it tightly covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. The flavor deepens as it sits, but if you prefer extra crunch, mix the dressing and veggies together just before serving.

Can I make it vegan?

Definitely! Swap in your favorite vegan mayonnaise and a dairy-free sour cream alternative. This version is just as creamy, tangy, and crowd-pleasing—no one will miss a thing.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Creamy Coleslaw Recipe, you’ll want to bring it everywhere—from summer cookouts to quick weeknight dinners. It’s easy, endlessly versatile, and full of flavor. Go ahead and give it a try; I bet it’ll become your new go-to slaw, too!

Creamy Coleslaw Recipe