Easy Classic Coleslaw Salad with Mayonnaise (Creamy + Crunchy BBQ Favorite)
This is the kind of traditional creamy coleslaw recipe from scratch that works for everything—weeknight dinners, backyard BBQs, or tossing on top of sandwiches. If you’ve never made coleslaw before, don’t worry. This simple creamy coleslaw recipe for beginners is super forgiving and uses everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand.
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I still remember the first time I made a homemade classic coleslaw with cabbage and carrots for a family BBQ. I had zero confidence and almost grabbed a store-bought tub instead. But once I mixed up that old fashioned coleslaw dressing recipe and tasted it after chilling… wow. It instantly became my “bring this to every gathering” dish. Now it’s my go-to bbq side dish classic coleslaw recipe whenever grilling season rolls around.
This is the kind of traditional creamy coleslaw recipe from scratch that works for everything—weeknight dinners, backyard BBQs, or tossing on top of sandwiches. If you’ve never made coleslaw before, don’t worry. This simple creamy coleslaw recipe for beginners is super forgiving and uses everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand.
What makes this salad healthy?
health benefits of Coleslaw
Coleslaw gets a bad reputation, but it can absolutely fit into a balanced meal.
- Cabbage is packed with fiber and vitamin C
- You can easily turn this into a healthy classic coleslaw recipe with less mayo by swapping part of the mayo for yogurt
- It’s naturally gluten-free and can be adapted into a low calorie classic coleslaw recipe
- With a few tweaks, it works as a dairy free creamy coleslaw recipe or even a keto classic coleslaw recipe no sugar
Why you’ll love this recipe
- A quick and easy classic coleslaw recipe that’s beginner-friendly
- A true no fuss classic coleslaw recipe with pantry staples
- Perfect as a picnic perfect classic coleslaw recipe
- Works as the best coleslaw recipe for pulled pork sandwiches
- Great as a coleslaw recipe for burgers and hot dogs
- Doubles easily for a make ahead coleslaw recipe for parties
RELATED: This unique coleslaw with grapes recipe is a flavorful trifecta with the sweetness from the grapes, the crunch of the almonds, and sunflower seeds, and the bitterness of the cabbage. You can also replace the sugar with honey (or ) and use red onions.
Ingredients you’ll need to make this creamy coleslaw for BBQ’s
For the coleslaw:
- Shredded coleslaw mix (2 bags) – the easiest shortcut for a 5 minute coleslaw recipe with bagged mix
- Green bell pepper – adds crunch and a fresh bite
- Red onion – gives a little sharpness and color
For the creamy dressing:
- Mayonnaise – the base for that classic deli style coleslaw recipe texture (or make your own mayonnaise)
- White wine vinegar – adds tang for a traditional coleslaw recipe with vinegar and mayo
- Sugar – balances the acidity for that sweet and tangy classic coleslaw recipe flavor
- Dry mustard – subtle depth that makes it taste like a restaurant style coleslaw recipe
- Salt & black pepper – simple seasoning that ties everything together
How to shred cabbage for coleslaw
If you’re not using a bagged mix, here’s how to shred cabbage for coleslaw recipe success:
- Remove any tough outer leaves
- Cut the cabbage into quarters
- Slice out the core
- Thinly slice with a sharp knife or use a mandoline
This works for both green cabbage and a classic coleslaw with red cabbage recipe variation.
Step-by-step instructions for making this classic coleslaw recipe for BBQ’s
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, sugar, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper to create an easy homemade coleslaw dressing recipe.
- Add the shredded coleslaw mix, diced green bell pepper, and red onion.
- Toss everything until fully coated in the creamy dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight for the best flavor. This step is key for that best ever classic coleslaw recipe taste. Add salt and pepper to taste, serve & enjoy!
Make this Classic Creamy Coleslaw Salad, then check out my Corned Beef Coleslaw, my Creamy Hawaiian Coleslaw with Pineapple and more of my coleslaw recipes for BBQ’s.
TIPS AND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Read on for tips and substitution ideas on how to make this recipe, such as how to customize this salad, and how to store this salad.
How do I make this a Vegan Coleslaw?
You can either use a Vegan Mayonnaise or you can make your own vegan Mayonnaise.
Can I make it lighter?
Make this a light creamy coleslaw recipe with yogurt dressing by swapping half the mayo for plain Greek yogurt.
Can I skip the onion?
Absolutely—this works as a coleslaw recipe without onion if you prefer a milder flavor.
How to keep coleslaw from getting watery?
Wondering how to keep coleslaw from getting watery? Try these tips:
* Salt the cabbage lightly and let it sit, then drain before mixing
* Don’t overdress—stick to the best dressing ratio for classic coleslaw
* Chill before serving so flavors meld without extra moisture buildup
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This is a perfect make ahead coleslaw recipe for parties and actually tastes better after chilling.
How to store leftovers of Creamy Coleslaw?
Store your coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a quick toss before serving. If it loosens up, add a spoonful of mayo to freshen it up.
☀️ CELEBRATE Summer with
50+ Easy Salad Recipes for Summer
Summer is here, and do you know what that means? It’s time to enjoy the fresh Summer produce with salad ideas that your whole family will love!
This ultimate creamy coleslaw recipe is one of those side dishes you’ll keep coming back to all summer long. It’s easy, reliable, and fits just about any meal—from casual dinners to full-on BBQ spreads.
Save this top rated homemade coleslaw recipe so you’ve always got a fresh, crunchy, crowd-pleasing side ready to go. Your future cookout self will thank you.
Easy Classic Coleslaw Salad with Mayonnaise
Ingredients
For the coleslaw:
- 2 10 ounce bags shredded coleslaw mix
- 1 green bell pepper (seeded and finely diced)
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- For the Creamy dressing
For the creamy coleslaw dressing
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 4 teaspoons white wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, dry mustard, black pepper, and salt.3/4 cup mayonnaise, 4 teaspoons white wine vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Add the vegetables to the bowl and toss to coat in the dressing.2 10 ounce bags shredded coleslaw mix, 1 green bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- Cover and refrigerate overnight for best results.
Video
The recipe seems simple to prepare and would pair wonderfully with everything from grilled meats to sandwiches and picnic favorites. I also appreciate the helpful tips for getting the best texture and flavor.