Last Updated on October 11, 2021 by Anne-Marie

Make this easy coleslaw recipe for your next cookout. This coleslaw dressing recipe can easily be put together for last minute get-togethers.

Why this recipe works

This easy coleslaw recipe will be your go-to side dish for potlucks, picnics and barbecues.

That’s because easy coleslaw goes with anything you’re cooking up – burgers, ribs, chicken, fish – you name it. This slaw compliments whatever you’re serving.

It’s also easy to put together in a snap for those last minute get-togethers.

What kind of coleslaw dressing do you like?

I’ve tried plenty of vinegary coleslaws at many a barbecue joint throughout the South and Midwest. Some good, some great. Some creamy. Some sweet.

My local grocery store sells an “Amish coleslaw” that’s kind of nice.

I’ve also made a coleslaw dressing recipe with celery seed and mustard added to it that was interesting.

But I also found other coleslaw dressings that were too soupy for my taste because they had too much mayo and even a bunch of sour cream thrown in to the mix!

So I experimented and chose my favorite mayonnaises for my Easy Coleslaw Recipe. Here’s what I recommend:

First up is an olive oil based mayo. You can use any brand you like – Kraft, Hellman’s, Dukes, or a store brand. I love olive oil based mayonnaise because it has a tangy flavor, which is perfect for this coleslaw dressing.

Next up is a chipotle mayonnaise, which is a little harder to find. Hellman’s and McCormick both sell versions. Kraft used to make one, but now makes Kraft Chipotle Aioli instead, which is close enough.

If you can’t find chipotle mayo for your easy coleslaw, use this chipotle mayo recipe from Serious Eats. You can use some in the coleslaw dressing and the rest on fish tacos. Yum!

How to make coleslaw

You know why this is a recipe for easy coleslaw? That’s because you buy packages tri-color coleslaw mix and shredded carrots to make it!

Honestly, did you think I’d make you get out the Cuisinart and have you shred a head of cabbage and bunches of carrots.

I mean, you can if you wish, but why bother? After all, that’s NOT how to make an easy coleslaw recipe. Ahem.

Sure, it’s probably a bit cheaper to do it the old fashioned way. But who has the time to drag the food processor out of the pantry and then clean it up when you have backyard parties and cookouts to attend?

The whole point of this Easy Coleslaw Recipe is that you’re doing something easy but adding a personalized touch to it.

You can pick up the coleslaw mix and shredded carrots (and mayo and other ingredients, if needed) on the way home from work or picking up the kids. Then you quickly stir together the coleslaw dressing, add it to the slaw, and BOOM instant party side dish.

Put it in a pretty serving bowl with a lid and off you go to your picnic or friend’s party. Hooray!!

Adding coleslaw to your favorite grilled sandwich

Have you heard of “pig pile Elvis style”? Supposedly, The King liked to put coleslaw on his pulled pork sandwiches.

I’ve had pulled pork sandwiches topped with coleslaw and they’re goooooood. Try it, you’ll like it!

Thus inspired, I brushed a chicken breast with some chipotle mayonnaise, grilled it up, and served it on a ciabatta roll. Then I added a layer of my Easy Coleslaw Recipe.

Doesn’t that look good? Try it with grilled fish or on Instant Pot Pulled Pork, too.

Originally published July 23, 2015. Updated with new pictures and information.