Copycat Applebee’s Coleslaw Recipe

There’s something truly irresistible about Applebee’s coleslaw—crisp, creamy, and perfectly tangy, it’s the side dish that somehow steals the spotlight every time it’s served. Whether you’re looking to complete a homemade barbecue feast or are simply craving that restaurant-style crunch, this copycat recipe will hit the spot with authentic flavors you know and love.

Making Applebee’s coleslaw at home means you’re just a few simple ingredients away from a refreshing, classic side that everyone will rave about. Plus, it takes less than 10 minutes to pull together! Explore other crowd-favorite salads in our salads category, or find main-course inspiration in our meat and fried-dish collections.

How to make Coleslaw

This Copycat Applebee’s Coleslaw is a breeze to whip up and tastes just like the original! Start by shredding carrots and cabbage, mixing up a creamy dressing, and tossing it all together. Let it chill for the best flavor. Here’s how to nail that crunchy, creamy goodness:

Nutrition facts

• Serving Size: About 1 cup
• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Protein: 1g
• Sugar: 10g
• Cholesterol: 8mg

(Values are approximate and will vary based on exact ingredients used.)

Ingredients

• 1 lb green cabbage, finely shredded — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
• 2 small carrots, peeled and grated — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
• 1 tablespoon white sugar — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper — 🛒 Buy on Amazon

Tools you’ll need

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Chef’s knife or mandoline
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater (for carrots, if not pre-shredded)
• Spatula or tongs

Instructions

1. 1. Prepare the vegetables: Finely shred 1 lb. of green cabbage and 2 small carrots, then place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. 2. Chop the herbs: Finely chop 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro and add to the bowl.
3. 3. Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon white sugar, 1 tablespoon white vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until smooth.
4. 4. Combine and toss: Pour the dressing over the cabbage, carrot, and cilantro mixture, then use tongs or a spatula to mix until everything is evenly coated.
5. 5. Chill: Cover and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld beautifully!

What to serve with

Drinks: Pair your Applebee’s coleslaw with iced tea, lemonade, or even a craft beer for a summer vibe. For more ideas, dive into our drinks collection.

Sides: This coleslaw shines next to fried chicken, grilled burgers, ribs, or crispy fish filets, but also does wonders in pulled pork sandwiches. It’s also a natural fit for picnics and potlucks—check out more options in our fried-dish and burger categories.

Mains: Use as a crunchy topping in tacos or alongside smoky barbecue meats for a full feast.

Variations

• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or sliced jalapeños for heat.
• Sweet version: Toss in a handful of raisins or diced apples.
• Creamier version: Mix in a tablespoon of sour cream for extra richness.
• No mayo: Substitute half or all the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-rich version.
• Extra crunch: Add sunflower seeds or thinly sliced bell pepper.

Ingredient Substitutes

1. Mayonnaise
   • Plain Greek yogurt
   • Sour cream
   • Vegan mayo
2. White Vinegar
   • Apple cider vinegar
   • Lemon juice
   • Rice vinegar
3. White Sugar
   • Honey
   • Agave nectar
   • Maple syrup
4. Cilantro
   • Flat-leaf parsley
   • Dill
   • Green onions
5. Green Cabbage
   • Red cabbage
   • Savoy cabbage
   • Pre-shredded slaw mix
6. Carrots
   • Daikon radish (shredded)
   • Jicama
   • Zucchini (shredded)

Copycat Applebee's Coleslaw Recipe

Serves: 6 Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 0 minutes 0 minutes

Nutrition facts: 180 calories 20 grams fat

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

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Ingredients

1 lb green cabbage, finely shredded
2 small carrots, peeled and grated
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon white sugar
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Finely shred the cabbage and grate the carrots; place in a large mixing bowl.
Chop the cilantro and add it to the bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated.
Cover and chill for 30 minutes for best flavor before serving.