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KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe - The Ultimate Southern-Style Creamy Slaw

This KFC coleslaw copycat recipe delivers the iconic creamy, sweet-tangy flavor profile with crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and perfectly balanced dressing. It's an easy homemade version that comes together in minutes but tastes like it took hours to perfect, making it ideal for BBQs, picnics, and sandwiches.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 medium head green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon celery seed

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the vegetables by finely shredding the cabbage, grating the carrots, and finely chopping the onion if using. Place all vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
  2. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, buttermilk, sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and celery seed until smooth and well combined.
  3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all vegetables evenly.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.
  5. Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled.

Notes

For crispiest texture: Use very fresh cabbage and avoid over-mixing. Make ahead: Tastes better the next day as flavors develop. Healthier version: Substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise.