15-Minute Copycat KFC Coleslaw
This creamy, tangy coleslaw recreates the beloved KFC side dish with a sweet and savory dressing made from Miracle Whip, buttermilk, and a touch of sugar. The combination of fresh cabbage, diced carrots, and minced onions creates the perfect crunch and flavor balance. Best served chilled after a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together. This nostalgic recipe is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a cooling side dish for fried foods.
Ingredients
- ½ cup Miracle Whipmayonnaise1:1
slightly different flavor profile
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup buttermilkregular milk + lemon juice1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice for 1 cup buttermilk
close substitute
Full guide → - ¼ cup milkregular milk + lemon juice1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice for 1 cup buttermilk
close substitute
Full guide → - 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cabbage, diced
- ¼ cup carrots, diced
- 2 tablespoons onions, minced
Instructions
- 1
Mix the Miracle Whip, sugar, milk, buttermilk, lemon juice, white vinegar, salt, and black pepper in a small mixing bowl until smooth
- 2
Dice the cabbage and carrots into small pieces using a sharp knife or food processor
- 3
Add the dressing to the diced vegetables and mix well
- 4
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate
- 5
Chill for 3 to 4 hours before serving
Tips
Chill the coleslaw for at least 3-4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften slightly
Use a food processor for uniform, fine dicing of vegetables for the most authentic texture
Good to Know
Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days in a covered container
Can be made up to 1 day ahead; flavors improve with time
Serve chilled as a side dish
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the chilling time or the flavors won't develop properly
Dice vegetables uniformly to avoid watery coleslaw from inconsistent pieces
Substitutions
close substitute
Full guide →FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this coleslaw actually improves when made a day ahead as the flavors have more time to meld together.
How long will this keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for best quality and freshness.
Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Miracle Whip?
Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different as Miracle Whip has a tangier, sweeter taste than regular mayonnaise.