This creamy Southern-style coleslaw delivers the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy in every bite.
Inspired by the classic slaws served at fried chicken and seafood restaurants, this easy side dish is made with crisp cabbage, a rich and creamy dressing, and just the right amount of sweetness to keep everyone coming back for more.
Whether you’re piling it onto pulled pork sandwiches, serving it alongside crispy fried chicken, or bringing it to a backyard barbecue, this crowd-pleasing coleslaw is always a hit.
Best of all, it comes together in minutes and tastes even better after chilling in the refrigerator.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) bag coleslaw mix
- 2 tablespoons diced onion
- 2/3 cup creamy salad dressing
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon poppy seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Add the coleslaw mix and diced onion to a large mixing bowl and toss lightly to combine.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the creamy salad dressing, sugar, vegetable oil, white vinegar, poppy seeds, and salt until smooth and fully blended.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until the slaw is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Stir well before serving and enjoy chilled.
Chefs Notes
- For extra crunch, add a handful of shredded carrots or thinly sliced green cabbage.
- This slaw tastes even better after sitting overnight in the refrigerator.
- Serve it on top of pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, fish tacos, or alongside barbecue favorites.
- If you prefer a tangier slaw, add an extra splash of vinegar to the dressing.