If you’ve ever eaten at Zaxby’s, you already know their coleslaw isn’t just a side dish—it’s part of the experience. Cool, creamy, slightly sweet, and perfectly crunchy, Zaxby’s Coleslaw balances fried chicken, wings, and sandwiches like no other. The good news? You don’t need to visit the restaurant to enjoy it. This Zaxby’s Coleslaw Recipe is a simple, homemade version that tastes incredibly close to the original, using easy-to-find ingredients and quick steps.
This recipe is beginner-friendly, budget-friendly, and perfect for everyday meals, summer barbecues, or family gatherings. With a short prep time and a one-hour resting period, you’ll get that classic flavor and texture everyone loves.
What Is Zaxby’s Coleslaw Recipe?
Zaxby’s coleslaw is a Southern-style creamy coleslaw made with finely chopped cabbage, carrots, and green bell pepper tossed in a tangy-sweet mayonnaise dressing. Unlike vinegar-heavy slaws, this one is smooth, mildly sweet, and well-balanced with just a hint of acidity from apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard.
What makes it special is the use of celery seeds and two types of sugar, which give it that signature restaurant-style flavor. It’s not overpowering, not too crunchy, and not watery—just perfectly balanced.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Tastes like the original Zaxby’s coleslaw
- Simple ingredients you probably already have
- No cooking required, just mix and chill
- Perfect for meal prep, picnics, and BBQs
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Pairs well with chicken, burgers, and sandwiches
If you love creamy coleslaw that’s not overly sweet or sour, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Equipment’s
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Sharp knife or box grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon
- Plastic wrap or airtight container
Ingredients
- 5 cups green cabbage, shredded or finely chopped
- 1 cup carrot, shredded or chopped
- ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped
- ½ cup Hellmann’s Mayonnaise, Recommended
- 1 tablespoon Wedderspoon Apple Cider Vinegar, Recommended
- 1 tablespoonBORNIER Dijon Mustard, Recommended
- ¾ teaspoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon white sugar
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Start by shredding or finely chopping the green cabbage. Add 5 cups of cabbage to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the shredded carrot and chopped green bell pepper to the bowl with the cabbage. Toss gently to combine.
- In a separate bowl, add mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, celery seeds, white sugar, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk the dressing until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add a little extra sugar if the dressing tastes too tangy.
- Pour about three-fourths of the dressing over the cabbage mixture.
- Toss until everything is evenly coated. Add more dressing if the coleslaw looks dry.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend and the cabbage to soften.
- Serve chilled and enjoy.
Our Other Recipes:
Notes
- Finely chopped vegetables give the most authentic Zaxby’s-style texture.
- Resting time is important—don’t skip it.
- Always taste the dressing before mixing it into the cabbage.
Variations
- Extra creamy: Add 2 tablespoons more mayonnaise.
- Less sweet: Reduce sugar by half.
- Healthier version: Use light mayonnaise or half Greek yogurt.
- No bell pepper: Skip it if you prefer a more classic slaw.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Tips
- Use fresh, crisp cabbage for the best crunch.
- Do not overdress; the cabbage releases moisture as it rests.
- Chill longer (up to 4 hours) for deeper flavor.
- Stir once before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Our Other Recipes:
What to Serve With Zaxby’s Coleslaw?
This creamy coleslaw pairs perfectly with:
- Fried chicken or chicken tenders
- Grilled chicken sandwiches
- Burgers and sliders
- BBQ ribs or pulled chicken
- French fries or potato wedges
It also works great as a sandwich topping or taco filler.
How to Store Zaxby’s Coleslaw?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Keeps fresh for 2–3 days.
- Stir before serving as dressing may settle.
- Do not freeze—mayonnaise-based slaw doesn’t freeze well.
Our Other Drink Recipes:
Zaxby’s Coleslaw Recipe
Equipment & Tools
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Sharp knife or box grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon
- Plastic wrap or airtight container
Ingredients
- 5 cups green cabbage shredded or finely chopped
- 1 cup carrot shredded or chopped
- ½ green bell pepper finely chopped
- ½ cup Hellmann's Mayonnaise, Recommended
- 1 tablespoon Wedderspoon Apple Cider Vinegar, Recommended
- 1 tablespoon BORNIER Dijon Mustard, Recommended
- ¾ teaspoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon white sugar
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Start by shredding or finely chopping the green cabbage. Add 5 cups of cabbage to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the shredded carrot and chopped green bell pepper to the bowl with the cabbage. Toss gently to combine.
- In a separate bowl, add mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, celery seeds, white sugar, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk the dressing until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add a little extra sugar if the dressing tastes too tangy.
- Pour about three-fourths of the dressing over the cabbage mixture.
- Toss until everything is evenly coated. Add more dressing if the coleslaw looks dry.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend and the cabbage to soften.
- Serve chilled and enjoy.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes. It actually tastes better when made a few hours in advance.
Is this an exact copycat of Zaxby’s coleslaw?
This is a very close homemade version using simple ingredients.
Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?
Yes, but finely chopped fresh cabbage gives the best texture.
Why is my coleslaw watery?
Too much dressing or over-mixing can cause excess moisture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Zaxby’s Coleslaw Recipe proves that restaurant-style flavor can be made easily at home. Creamy, crunchy, and perfectly balanced, it’s the ideal side dish for chicken meals, BBQs, or everyday dinners. With minimal prep and no cooking required, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves classic American coleslaw. Make it once, and it’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
