Front Range Fed

  • Recipes
  • About
  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • About
  • Subscribe
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • About
    • Subscribe
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home » Recipes » Side Dishes

    Best Homemade Crunchy Coleslaw for Pulled Pork

    Modified: Mar 8, 2025 · Published: Aug 22, 2024 by Sarah Jenkins. This post may contain affiliate links. See the Privacy Policy at the bottom of this page.

    Jump to Recipe

    This easy coleslaw recipe is a delightful blend of creamy, tangy, and crunchy flavors that pair beautifully with the rich, smoky taste of pulled pork.

    coleslaw for pulled pork on countertop.

    When it comes to pulled pork sandwiches, the perfect coleslaw can make all the difference. This one is made with simple ingredients like coleslaw mix, red onion, and a homemade coleslaw dressing for a classic coleslaw recipe that comes together in minutes. I love serving it straight up on pulled pork sandwiches, but it's also the perfect complement to bacon burgers, this Lipton onion soup meatloaf recipe, chicken, or any other type of BBQ. It's perfect for family dinners or summer cookouts!  

    In This Post
    • Why I Love This Recipe
    • Key Ingredients
    • How To Make The Perfect Coleslaw For Pulled Pork
    • Variations and Substitutions
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • More Delicious Sides For Pulled Pork Sandwiches
    • Recipe
    • Comments

    Why I Love This Recipe

    • Creamy coleslaw. I love this coleslaw recipe because it's the perfect balance of creamy and tangy, with a satisfying crunch that complements pulled pork sandwiches so well. The sweet tang is a great counter to spicy BBQ sauce too.
    • Delicious dressing! The homemade coleslaw dressing, made with apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, and a touch of powdered sugar (my secret ingredient!), adds a zesty kick that elevates the flavors of the cabbage mixture. 
    • Super simple. This tangy coleslaw is incredibly easy to make with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Whether you're topping pork sliders or enjoying it as a refreshing side dish, this crunchy coleslaw is always a hit.

    Key Ingredients

    Just a few veggies and pantry staples are needed for this creamy coleslaw. 

    ingredients for coleslaw on countertop, labeled.
    • Coleslaw mix. You can chop up your own mix of red and green cabbage, and carrots, but I find it's so much easier to just grab a bag of the pre-cut mix in the grocery store. It's a huge time-saver and doesn't sacrifice any of the crunch of the veggies. (And TBH, I often find it hard to use up a whole head of cabbage.)
    • Red onion. Adds a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy mayo-based dressing.
    • Mayonnaise. The base of the dressing, providing a rich and creamy texture.
    • Apple cider vinegar. Adds tangy flavors that brighten up the slaw.
    • Dijon mustard. Brings a bit of spice and depth to the dressing.
    • Powdered sugar. My secret ingredient! The sugar balances out the acidity of the vinegar and mustard, adding a touch of sweetness. Using powdered sugar prevents that grainy texture that's sometimes found when using granulated sugar in coleslaw dressings.
    • Ground celery salt. Infuses the coleslaw with a subtle, earthy flavor that’s key to a classic coleslaw recipe.
    • Black pepper. Just a pinch to enhance all the other flavors.

    How To Make The Perfect Coleslaw For Pulled Pork

    ​This recipe comes together fast, especially if you're using the bagged coleslaw mix and don't have to spend time chopping veggies. Here's what you'll do:

    1. Prepare the vegetables. In a large bowl, combine one bag of coleslaw mix and diced red onion.
    coleslaw mix and red onion in bowl.
    1. Make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, powdered sugar, celery salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth and well combined.
    dressing for coleslaw in bowl.
    1. Combine and toss. Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mix and onion, tossing well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
    coleslaw mix with dressing poured over.
    1. Chill and serve. If time allows, I always like to refrigerate the coleslaw for 30 minutes to an hour to let the flavors meld together. Serve the crunchy slaw on pulled pork sandwiches, as a side dish, or even on pork tacos. Delish!
    mixed coleslaw with dressing.

    Variations and Substitutions

    This is a perfect recipe as is, but here are a few ways to customize it to your preferences: 

    • Try different cabbage. If you prefer to make your own cabbage mix, use a combination of green cabbage, red cabbage, and napa cabbage for a colorful and crunchy slaw. There are also severely types of coleslaw mixes you can find at the grocery stores, including broccoli slaw, which has a nice crunch.
    • Use a different type of vinegar. Swap apple cider vinegar with red wine vinegar or white vinegar for a different flavor profile.
    • Change up the mustard. Try whole grain mustard or spicy brown mustard in place of dijon for an extra kick.
    • Adjust the sweetness. I try to keep the sugar to a minimum for this coleslaw recipe. You can adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your taste or substitute it with honey or brown sugar for a deeper sweetness.
    • Creamy alternatives. For a lighter version, replace some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream.
    • Extra crunch. Add extra shredded carrots, purple cabbage, or green onions for additional color and texture.
    • Add a flavor boost. Sprinkle in some garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of chili powder for a more robust flavor.
    • Celery salt substitution. If you don't have celery salt on hand, you can use a pinch of kosher salt and some celery seed as a substitute.
    side view of coleslaw.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?

    Yes! This coleslaw actually tastes better when made ahead, as it gives the flavors time to meld. Prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

    How long does coleslaw last in the fridge?

    Stored in an airtight container, this coleslaw will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

    Can I use this coleslaw on something other than pulled pork?

    Absolutely! This coleslaw is a great addition to BBQ chicken sandwiches, pork tacos, and even as a topping for burgers or as a side for grilled meats. You can even get fancy and try using it in pulled pork egg rolls or as a side for fried chicken sandwiches.

    Is this coleslaw gluten-free?

    Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, just make sure to check the labels on your mustard and mayonnaise to ensure they don't contain any hidden gluten.

    I truly think this is the best coleslaw recipe for pulled pork. Piled on top of tender barbecue pulled pork and then topped with a brioche bun, it's a classic summertime treat. 

    coleslaw for pulled pork on countertop.

    If you try this recipe, let me know what you think below by leaving a comment and a rating. And don't forget to tag me @frontrangefed on Instagram with a pic so I can see your masterpiece!

    More Delicious Sides For Pulled Pork Sandwiches

    • Smoked Corn On The Cob
    • Chopped Mediterranean Cucumber Salad
    • Simple 4 Ingredient Pasta Salad
    • Creamy Boursin Mashed Potatoes Recipe
    • Cheesy Loaded Tater Tots
    • Apple Pie Baked Beans
    • Kale Crunch Salad
    • Air Fryer Frozen French Fries
    • Sweet Potato Cornbread
    • Cheesy Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes
    • Homemade Yukon Gold Potato Chips
    • Carrot Fries

    Recipe

    coleslaw for pulled pork in bowl.

    Best Homemade Crunchy Coleslaw for Pulled Pork

    Author: Sarah Jenkins
    This easy coleslaw recipe is a delightful blend of creamy, tangy, and crunchy flavors that pair beautifully with the rich, smoky taste of pulled pork.
    No ratings yet
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 0 minutes mins
    Total Time 5 minutes mins
    Course Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Servings 10
    Calories 132 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 14 oz bag of coleslaw mix
    • ½ medium red onion diced
    • ¾ cup mayonnaise
    • 3 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
    • ½ tablespoon dijon mustard
    • 1 ½ tablespoon powdered sugar
    • ¾ teaspoon ground celery salt
    • pinch freshly ground pepper

    Instructions
     

    • Add the coleslaw mix and diced onion to a medium-sized bowl.
    • Make the dressing by combining the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, mustard, powdered sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper to a small bowl and whisk well to combine.
    • Pour the dressing over the coleslaw and onion mixture and toss well to combine.
    • If you have time, refrigerate the coleslaw for 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
    • Serve on pulled pork sandwiches, pulled chicken BBQ sandwiches, on tacos, or as a side for BBQ.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 132kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 1gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.03gCholesterol: 7mgSodium: 297mgPotassium: 83mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 50IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 19mgIron: 0.3mg
    Keyword 15 minute side dish, bbq side, easy side dish, pulled pork topping
    Tried this recipe?Let me know how it was!

    More Side Dishes

    • crockpot pinto beans in serving bowl with cilantro and jalapeno slices on top.
      No-Soak Crock Pot Pinto Beans with Bacon and Sautéed Veggies
    • fire roasted tomatoes on baking sheet with wire rack.
      How To Make Homemade Fire Roasted Tomatoes In The Oven
    • closeup view of pomegranate couscous salad with pistachio, lemon and mint.
      Festive Pomegranate and Couscous Salad
    • closeup of jammy eggs on plate.
      Perfect Jammy Eggs (Soft-Boiled) in 7 Minutes

    Comments

    No Comments

    Did you try this recipe? I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment below! Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Sarah Jenkins

    Hi, I'm Sarah! I love creating dishes based on what's in season and using local ingredients as often as I can. I hope you'll find some new to you recipes here that will inspire you to make something delicious!

    More about me →

    Popular

    • closeup of lazy lasagna with frozen cheese ravioli, pieces cut.
      Lazy Baked Frozen Ravioli Lasagna (With Cheese Ravioli)
    • closeup of buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan chicken pasta in serving bowl.
      Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
    • dump and bake meatball casserole in casserole dish on countertop.
      Quick And Easy Dump And Bake Meatball Casserole
    • stack of air fryer biscuits on cutting board with bowl of jelly on the side.
      Easy Perfect And Fluffy Canned Air Fryer Biscuits 
    • cornbread cowboy casserole in dutch oven on countertop with section of casserole spooned out.
      Easy Cornbread Cowboy Casserole With Beef And Beans
    • glazed meatloaf on platter.
      EASY Lipton Onion Soup Meatloaf Recipe
    • small batch chocolate chip cookies piled onto cutting board.
      Best Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
    • sheet pan pancakes with mix in pan with strawberries, blueberries and chocolate chips.
      Sheet Pan Pancakes From Mix

    Latest Recipes

    • pork carnitas burrito cut in half on plate.
      Chipotle-Style Pork Carnitas Burrito Recipe
    • instant pot pork carnitas on platter.
      Easy Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe - Crispy And Juicy!
    • two wine glasses with hugo spritz, garnished with mint and lemon wheel with St-Germain bottle in the background.
      How To Make A Hugo Spritz - The Ultimate Summer Cocktail
    • bowl of turkey tetrazzini on countertop.
      Easy Leftover Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe (Lighter Version!)
    Subscribe

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    INFO

    Privacy Policy & Disclaimer

    Contact

    SUBSCRIBE

    Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Follow

    Instagram

    Facebook

    Pinterest

    Copyright © 2025 Front Range Fed

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required