There’s something special about Popeyes Coleslaw—it’s not your average slaw. Unlike the tangy, vinegar-heavy versions you find elsewhere, this one is smooth, creamy, and slightly sweet, with just the right amount of crunch. It’s the ultimate cool, refreshing side for spicy, bold dishes like Sausage Jambalaya or crispy, golden Cornbread Poppers.
The secret? A perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. A mix of sweet and dill pickle relish adds depth, while a touch of sugar and yellow mustard keeps it from being one-note.
The finely chopped cabbage, shredded carrots, and minced onion blend together into a light yet flavorful slaw that holds up beautifully in the fridge—even better the next day!
Popeyes’ coleslaw has been a fan favorite for decades, and for good reason. In a world of overly acidic slaws, this one stands out with its rich, creamy texture and subtle, well-rounded sweetness. It’s easy to make, requires no fancy ingredients, and pairs with just about everything.
Try it once, and you’ll never go back to store-bought slaw again!
Why Does This Recipe Stand Out?
- The Perfect Creaminess – Unlike many coleslaws that are too sour or dry, this one is smooth and well-balanced, making it super satisfying.
- Stays Fresh Longer – The flavors meld beautifully overnight, so it’s even tastier the next day.
- Versatile Pairing – It goes with everything—fried chicken, BBQ, seafood, or even sandwiches!
- Simple & Quick – Just chop, mix, and chill. No complicated steps, no long prep time.
- A Crowd Favorite – Whether it’s a summer cookout, picnic, or weeknight dinner, this slaw is always a hit.
Popeyes Coleslaw Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater (for shredding carrots)
- Airtight container (for chilling)
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 6 cups green cabbage chopped
- 1/2 cup carrot shredded
- 1/4 yellow onion minced
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, sweet and dill pickle relish, vinegar, vegetable oil, and mustard until well combined.
- Add the chopped cabbage, shredded carrots, and minced onion to the bowl.
- Mix everything thoroughly until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) for the best flavor.
- Give it a final stir before serving.
- Serve chilled as a side with Sausage Jambalaya or Cornbread.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 272kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Sodium | 285mg |
Secrets To Making The Best Popeyes-Style Coleslaw!
- Use Bagged Coleslaw Mix for Convenience – If you’re short on time, grab a pre-shredded coleslaw mix from the store. It saves chopping time while still giving you the perfect texture.
- Finely Chop for That Classic Texture – Unlike chunky slaws, Popeyes-style coleslaw is finely chopped for a softer, creamier bite. A food processor can help achieve the right consistency in seconds!
- Balance the Sweetness – If you prefer less sweetness, slightly reduce the sugar and sweet relish. Want more tang? Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a brighter flavor.
- Chill Overnight for the Best Flavor – While 2 hours works, letting the coleslaw sit overnight allows the dressing to soak in, making it even creamier and more flavorful the next day.
- Drain Excess Liquid Before Serving – As the coleslaw sits, it releases water. Before serving, give it a quick stir and drain any extra liquid to keep the dressing thick and creamy.
- Use Duke’s Mayo for Authentic Flavor – Popeyes-style coleslaw has a rich, slightly tangy taste, which comes from high-quality mayonnaise. Duke’s Mayonnaise is a great choice for the most authentic flavor.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
