Introduction
If you’re craving the creamy, tangy goodness of Culver’s coleslaw, you’re in the right place! Today, I’m sharing my copycat Culver’s coleslaw recipe that you can easily make at home. Culver’s coleslaw is a classic favorite that has won hearts across the U.S.! But did you know you can recreate that creamy, tangy taste right in your own kitchen?
As a chef, I love recreating restaurant flavors in my own kitchen, and this coleslaw is no exception! This homemade version captures the iconic taste of Culver’s—perfectly creamy, slightly sweet, and delightfully tangy.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to make a perfect Culver’s coleslaw copycat recipe with simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to achieve that signature flavor. Whether you’re pairing it with chicken, burgers, or just enjoying it on its own, this coleslaw will impress family and friends.
So, let’s dive in!
🥗 What is Culver’s Coleslaw?
» Culver’s coleslaw is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet cabbage salad served as a side dish at the famous Culver’s fast-food chain. It’s made from finely shredded cabbage and carrots, tossed in a rich mayonnaise-based dressing that has a hint of vinegar and lemon juice for balance.
» What makes it stand out is its signature smooth texture — not too watery, not too thick — just the perfect creamy crunch that pairs beautifully with fried chicken, burgers, and fish sandwiches. It’s comfort food simplicity at its best!
» As a chef, I love how this recipe delivers that nostalgic restaurant flavor using basic pantry ingredients right at home.
🍴 Kitchen Equipment Required for Culver’s Coleslaw Recipe
You won’t need fancy tools for this Culver’s coleslaw recipe — just a few kitchen essentials to make it effortless:
» Sharp Knife or Mandolin: For finely shredding cabbage and carrots.
» Large Mixing Bowl: To combine and toss the ingredients evenly.
» Small Whisk or Fork: Perfect for blending the creamy dressing.
» Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accuracy in balancing flavors.
» Airtight Container or Glass Bowl with Lid: For chilling and storing the coleslaw.
Chef’s Tip: Always chill your bowl before mixing the dressing — it helps maintain the crispness of the cabbage!
🥬 What Makes Culver’s Coleslaw Special
» Creamy & Tangy Flavor: Culver’s coleslaw stands out with its balance of smooth mayonnaise and a hint of tang from vinegar and lemon juice.
» Perfect Texture: Finely shredded cabbage ensures every bite is crisp yet tender.
» Signature Taste: A subtle sweetness elevates this coleslaw above traditional recipes.
» Simple Ingredients: It’s all about fresh cabbage, carrots, and a well-seasoned dressing.
Ingredients Needed for Homemade Culver’s Coleslaw
👉 Vegetables
♥ 4 cups finely shredded green cabbage, 1 cup shredded carrots, and optionally ½ cup finely chopped onions.
👉 Dressing
♥ ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons white vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
👉 Optional Add-ins
♥ Celery seeds or a pinch of mustard powder for extra flavor.
♥ Chef Tip: Use fresh, firm cabbage for the best texture and crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Culver’s Coleslaw
Making Culver’s coleslaw Recipe at home is all about getting the texture, balance, and creaminess just right. Follow these detailed steps to achieve that restaurant-quality flavor and crispness every time:
👥 Servings: 6–8
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🍳 Cook Time: 0
🛌 Resting Time: 2 hours
⏳ Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
💲Estimated Cost: $5–7 (Approx.)
👉 Step 1: Shred the Vegetables Properly
♥ Start with fresh green cabbage — firm, tight heads are the best. Remove any wilted outer leaves, then cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core.
♥ Using a sharp knife or mandolin slicer, finely shred the cabbage into thin, even strips. The finer you slice, the more evenly the dressing will coat the cabbage.
♥ Do the same with carrots, using a box grater or food processor for fine shreds.
👨🍳 Chef’s Tip: Avoid pre-packaged cabbage that looks dry or discolored. Freshly shredded cabbage stays crisp longer and soaks up the dressing beautifully.
👉 Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
♥ ½ cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat)
♥ 2 tablespoons white vinegar
♥ 2 tablespoons sugar
♥ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
♥ ¼ teaspoon salt
♥ ¼ teaspoon black pepper
» Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and glossy. The goal is a dressing that’s slightly tangy with a hint of sweetness — just like Culver’s signature coleslaw.
👨🍳 Chef’s Tip: Taste the dressing before mixing — you can add a pinch more sugar for sweetness or a few extra drops of vinegar if you prefer tangier coleslaw.
👉 Step 3: Combine the Vegetables & Dressing
♥ In a large mixing bowl, add your shredded cabbage and carrots. Pour the creamy dressing over the vegetables.
♥ Using a large spoon or tongs, gently toss everything together until the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated. Be gentle — overmixing can bruise the cabbage and make it watery.
👨🍳 Chef’s Tip: Toss in stages — add half the dressing first, mix, then add the rest if needed. This helps control the consistency and avoids overdressing.
👉 Step 4: Chill for Maximum Flavor
♥ Transfer your coleslaw to an airtight container or cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap.
♥ Now, refrigerate coleslaw for at least 1–2 hours for the best flavor before serving.
♥ This chilling time is essential because it allows the flavors to meld, the cabbage to soften slightly, and the dressing to thicken — giving you that creamy, balanced Culver’s style finish.
👨🍳 Chef’s Tip: For best results, make it a few hours ahead or even the night before. It tastes even better the next day!
👉 Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
♥ When ready to serve, give your coleslaw a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. Taste one last time — if needed, add a touch of salt, sugar, or vinegar to fine-tune the flavor.
♥ Serve chilled alongside fried chicken, burgers, or BBQ for a perfect restaurant-style meal at home.
🧑🍳 Pro Tip: Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley or celery seeds before serving to add color and a subtle aromatic finish.
» Can I make it ahead of time? Yes! Prepare up to a day in advance and chill.
Ingredient Substitutes Culver’s Coleslaw Recipe 2025
» Here’s how to modify your Culver’s coleslaw recipe if you’re missing a few ingredients or want to make it lighter:
| Original Ingredient | Substitute Option | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | Greek yogurt or vegan mayo | Healthier, lighter version |
| White vinegar | Apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar | Milder tang |
| Sugar | Honey or maple syrup | Natural sweetness |
| Lemon juice | Lime juice | Slightly sharper flavor |
| Green cabbage | Red cabbage or coleslaw mix | Colorful twist |
| Salt | Celery salt | Added depth of flavor |
Chef’s Note: If you prefer a zesty kick, try adding a pinch of mustard powder or a splash of pickle juice to the dressing — it transforms the flavor beautifully!
Tips for the Perfect Culver’s Coleslaw Recipe at Home
» Cabbage Selection: Green cabbage gives color, while a bit of red cabbage adds visual appeal.
» Refrigeration: Letting it chill enhances the creamy texture and flavor.
» Avoid Watery Coleslaw: Pat shredded vegetables dry before mixing with dressing.
» Adjust Flavor: Add more sugar for sweetness or extra vinegar for tang.
» Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Absolutely, but fresh-shredded gives a crisper texture.
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
» Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Mix with cabbage and carrots 2–3 hours before serving for the best texture.
» Refrigeration: Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
» Avoid Sogginess: Drain any excess liquid that forms at the bottom before serving.
» Do Not Freeze: Freezing will make the cabbage limp and ruin the creamy texture.
Chef’s Tip: Stir the coleslaw once before serving to redistribute the dressing evenly and bring back that fresh, creamy consistency.
🍽️ How to Serve Culver’s Coleslaw Side
» Perfect Pairings: Serve alongside chicken tenders, burgers, sandwiches, or BBQ.
» Presentation Tips: Use a small bowl for each plate or serve family-style in a large bowl.
» Meal Prep: Portion into airtight containers for easy grab-and-go sides.
Recipe Variations & Healthy Swaps
» As a chef, I love tweaking classics — and this Culver’s coleslaw recipe is versatile enough for a variety of creative and healthy spins! Here are some tasty variations and guilt-free swaps you can try at home:
🌱 Healthy Swaps
» Greek Yogurt Base: Replace half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed dressing.
» Less Sugar: Cut the sugar by half or use honey, maple syrup, or stevia for natural sweetness.
» Low-Fat Mayo: Use reduced-fat mayonnaise for fewer calories without losing creaminess.
» Extra Veggies: Add shredded red cabbage, broccoli stems, or kale for extra crunch and nutrients.
» How can I make it vegan or lighter?
Substitute vegan mayo or Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
🍏 Flavor Variations
» Apple Coleslaw: Add thinly sliced apples for a crisp, fruity twist.
» Spicy Kick: Mix in a bit of sriracha or chipotle mayo for a mild heat.
» Herb Infusion: Fresh dill, parsley, or chives add brightness to the dressing.
» Pickle Lovers’ Version: A tablespoon of pickle juice adds a tangy punch reminiscent of deli-style coleslaw.
Chef’s Tip: Always taste your dressing before combining it with the cabbage—this helps you perfect the balance of creaminess, sweetness, and tang!
What Is the Secret to a Good Coleslaw Recipe?
The secret to truly good coleslaw lies in three things: texture, balance, and time.
» Texture: Finely shred your cabbage and carrots so they absorb the dressing evenly while staying crisp. Avoid overmixing!
» Balance: A great coleslaw has the right ratio of creamy and tangy — use both mayonnaise and vinegar/lemon juice for contrast.
» Time to Chill: Let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours before serving. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives the dressing time to soften the cabbage slightly.
As I often tell my kitchen team, a little patience turns a good coleslaw into a great one!
What Is the Best Mayonnaise to Use for a Coleslaw Recipe?
Choosing the right mayonnaise makes all the difference in recreating the authentic Culver’s coleslaw flavor. Here are my top chef-approved recommendations:
» Hellmann’s (Best Foods): The classic choice — rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced for traditional coleslaw.
» Duke’s Mayonnaise: Famous in the South for its tangy flavor and thicker texture. Ideal for bold, flavorful coleslaw.
» Kewpie Japanese Mayo: Adds a subtle umami note and extra creaminess — perfect if you love gourmet twists.
» Vegan Mayo Alternatives: For plant-based versions, try Follow Your Heart or Sir Kensington’s Vegan Mayo, which blend beautifully in the dressing.
Chef’s Note: Always use full-fat mayo if possible — it gives that luxurious, restaurant-style creaminess you crave from the original Culver’s coleslaw.
Best Alternate Coleslaw Recipes You Can Try Today!
If you enjoyed making Culver’s coleslaw, here are a few other copycat and homemade side dish recipes that complement it perfectly:
» KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe – For a sweeter, creamier version of a classic.
» Raising Cane’s Coleslaw Recipe – Tangy and crisp, perfect with chicken tenders.
» Texas Roadhouse Butter Corn – A comforting, buttery side dish for family dinners.
» Cracker Barrel Biscuits Copycat – Soft, fluffy, and delicious with any Southern meal.
» Chick-fil-A Carrot Raisin Salad – Sweet, fruity, and perfect for summer gatherings.
Nutritional Information of Culver’s Coleslaw
♥ Calories: ~120 per ½ cup serving
♥ Fat: 8g
♥ Carbohydrates: 10g
♥ Protein: 1g
Health Tip: Fresh vegetables make this coleslaw a nutrient-rich side dish, and you can lighten it by using low-fat mayonnaise.
Culver's Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- First, take a large mixing bowl, add shredded cabbage & carrots, and mix them perfectly.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours to let the flavors blend and the dressing thicken.
- Stir before serving, then enjoy your homemade Culver’s-style coleslaw!
Notes
- You can try a Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise for a healthier version.
- Add a splash of pickle juice or a pinch of mustard powder for extra tang.
- You can keep it in an airtight container for 2-3 days for the best use.
- Avoid freezing — coleslaw doesn’t retain its crisp texture once thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add fruit to this coleslaw?
Definitely! Add diced apples, raisins, or pineapple chunks for a sweet twist that complements the creamy dressing beautifully.
Can I freeze leftover coleslaw?
No, freezing isn’t recommended. The cabbage will lose its crunch and become watery once thawed, affecting the creamy consistency.
Can I make Culver’s coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a few hours or a day in advance. The flavor improves as it chills, allowing the cabbage to absorb the creamy dressing perfectly.
Can I make this coleslaw vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, substitute regular mayonnaise with vegan mayo or plant-based yogurt. It keeps the same creamy texture and tangy flavor without any dairy.
What’s the best way to prevent watery coleslaw?
Pat the cabbage dry before mixing and avoid overmixing. Also, refrigerate for at least an hour to help the dressing thicken and bind.
What type of vinegar works best for this recipe?
White vinegar or apple cider vinegar works perfectly. They both balance the creamy mayo and add a light tang that defines Culver’s style coleslaw.
My Final Conclusion
As a chef, I can tell you—making Culver’s coleslaw Recipe at home is easier than you think! This copycat recipe brings that iconic creamy, tangy flavor straight to your kitchen.
» Pair it with chicken tenders, burgers, or BBQ meat dishes, and it will wow your family and guests. Don’t wait—try this recipe today and enjoy a classic American favorite in the comfort of your own home.
If you have any thoughts or suggestions, then share them with me in the comment section below! I’d love to hear from you, or you can also try my other comfort food recipe! Till then,
Happy Cooking!🥗
