Grandma’s Famous KFC-Style Coleslaw is a dish that brings people together. Passed down from generation to generation, this recipe has earned a permanent place at family reunions, potlucks, backyard barbecues, and weeknight dinners alike. With its cool, creamy texture and the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, it tastes just like the beloved restaurant version—but with that homemade touch that makes it even better.
The beauty of this coleslaw lies in its simplicity. With just a few everyday ingredients and a quick prep process, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing side that pairs beautifully with everything from fried chicken to grilled ribs. Whether you’re making it for the first time or it’s a family favorite already, this version is sure to deliver that nostalgic, satisfying flavor you’ve been craving.
Let’s walk through how to make this creamy coleslaw the same way Grandma always did—simple, delicious, and made with love.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup white sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- 2½ tablespoons lemon juice
- 1½ tablespoons white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
These humble ingredients come together to create a dressing that is smooth, tangy, and just a little bit sweet—exactly what you want in a classic coleslaw.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
- Remove any outer leaves from the cabbage and rinse thoroughly.
- Using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor, finely shred the cabbage.
- Peel and grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor.
- Place the shredded cabbage and carrots in a large mixing bowl.
Make the Dressing
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, milk, buttermilk, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess as needed by tweaking the sugar or vinegar quantities.
Combine and Chill
- Pour the creamy dressing over the shredded cabbage and carrots.
- Gently toss the mixture until all the vegetables are thoroughly coated.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld and the coleslaw develop its signature texture.
Serve
- Before serving, give the coleslaw a gentle toss and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve chilled as a side dish, sandwich topping, or part of a picnic spread.
Flavorful Variations
This timeless recipe is excellent as written, but here are a few fun and tasty variations to consider if you’re feeling adventurous:
Raisin Coleslaw
- Stir in a handful of golden or regular raisins for a subtle touch of natural sweetness.
Crunchy Nut Coleslaw
- Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds for a crunchier bite and a bit of earthiness.
Apple Slaw
- Toss in thinly sliced or julienned apples for a fresh, fruity twist.
Red Cabbage Mix
- Substitute part of the green cabbage with red cabbage for a beautiful color contrast and slightly different flavor.
Spicy Kick
- A dash of cayenne pepper, a pinch of chili flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce in the dressing will give your slaw a little heat.
These variations allow you to tailor the dish to your meal or your personal preferences, keeping the spirit of Grandma’s coleslaw while making it your own.
Serving Ideas
This creamy coleslaw is a perfect partner to so many dishes. Here are a few of our favorite ways to serve it:
- With BBQ ribs or pulled pork
- Tucked into a fried chicken sandwich
- Alongside grilled burgers or hot dogs
- With seafood like fried fish or shrimp
- As a crisp contrast to spicy dishes like buffalo wings or jerk chicken
The coleslaw’s cool and creamy texture helps balance bold, smoky, or spicy flavors, making it a staple side on many dinner tables.
Tips for Success
Follow these practical tips to ensure your coleslaw turns out perfect every single time:
- Finely shred the cabbage: The finer the shred, the better the cabbage absorbs the dressing, giving you that signature KFC-style texture.
- Use fresh produce: Crisp cabbage and carrots make for the best crunch and flavor.
- Don’t skip the chilling: Giving the coleslaw time to rest in the fridge lets the flavors fully meld and gives it that creamy, cohesive texture.
- Adjust to taste: If you prefer a tangier slaw, add a little more lemon juice or vinegar. For a sweeter version, increase the sugar slightly.
- Make ahead: This coleslaw tastes even better the next day. Just give it a quick toss before serving.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Famous KFC-Style Coleslaw is a recipe that stands the test of time. It’s not just a side dish—it’s a part of cherished family memories, a favorite at every cookout, and a comforting classic that’s incredibly easy to prepare.
With just a few simple ingredients and a quick mixing process, you can bring this creamy, tangy slaw to life in your own kitchen. Whether served at a summer barbecue or as a cool topping for a spicy sandwich, it always brings a refreshing crunch and a smile to every bite.
Give it a try, and you may find yourself making it again and again—just like Grandma did.
FAQs
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it’s recommended. Preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Can I use low-fat or vegan mayonnaise?
Absolutely. Low-fat mayo works well and still gives a creamy result. For a vegan version, opt for a plant-based mayo and use dairy-free milk and buttermilk alternatives.
How long will this coleslaw last in the refrigerator?
Properly stored in an airtight container, this coleslaw will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days. Stir well before serving each time.
Can I freeze coleslaw?
Coleslaw made with a mayo-based dressing does not freeze well, as the texture becomes watery and separated upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
What can I do if my coleslaw is too watery?
Try salting the shredded cabbage and letting it sit in a colander for 20 minutes before making the salad. This helps draw out excess moisture. Be sure to pat it dry before combining with other ingredients.