Famous Dave’s Coleslaw

The first time I tasted Famous Dave’s coleslaw at their barbecue restaurant, I was amazed by how perfectly balanced it was. Unlike typical heavy coleslaws, this version had a magical combination of creamy sweetness with just enough horseradish heat to make your taste buds dance. The colorful mix of green and red cabbage, combined with bright orange carrots, made it as beautiful as it was delicious. After countless attempts in my kitchen, I’ve finally cracked the code to recreate this legendary side dish that transforms any backyard barbecue into a delicious meal.

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Why This Recipe Works

The secret to Famous Dave’s coleslaw lies in the perfect balance of sweet and heat. The horseradish provides a clean, sharp kick that cuts through the richness of Miracle Whip, while sugar rounds out any harsh edges. The combination of dry mustard and celery seed adds complexity without overwhelming the fresh cabbage flavors. Allowing the coleslaw to rest in the refrigerator is crucial as it gives the flavors time to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly while maintaining its satisfying crunch.

Recipe Ingredients

Here’s a list of what you need:

• Green cabbage – Provides the crisp base and classic coleslaw texture and flavor
• Red cabbage – Adds beautiful color contrast and slightly peppery taste
• Carrot – Contributes natural sweetness and vibrant orange color for visual appeal
• Miracle Whip – Creates the signature tangy creaminess that sets this apart from mayo-based slaws
• Sugar – Balances the heat from horseradish and mustard with perfect sweetness
• Grated horseradish – Delivers the distinctive spicy kick that makes this coleslaw memorable
• Dry mustard – Adds depth and complexity without overwhelming moisture
• Ground white pepper – Provides heat without visible specks, maintaining a clean appearance
• Kosher salt – Enhances all flavors and helps draw moisture from vegetables
• Garlic powder – Contributes subtle savory depth that complements the other seasonings
• Celery seed – Adds traditional coleslaw flavor with a slight bitter note for balance

How to Make Famous Dave’s Coleslaw

1. In a large bowl, toss the shredded cabbage and carrots to combine them.
2. Place the Miracle Whip, sugar, horseradish, dry mustard, white pepper, salt, garlic powder, and celery seed in a bowl. Stir until well blended.

3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and stir to mix the cabbage and carrots with the dressing.
4. Let the coleslaw sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. By allowing the flavors to mingle for a couple of hours, you will end up with a perfectly seasoned bowl of coleslaw.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

• Freezing is not recommended, as cabbage becomes mushy when thawed and loses its characteristic crunch.
• Refrigerator Storage: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Please note that the texture will soften over time.
• Serving Method: Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator. Stir gently before serving to redistribute dressing.

Do you love coleslaw? Try these recipes!

• Captain D’s Coleslaw
• Freezer Slaw
• Homemade Slaw
• Houston’s Coleslaw
• KFC Coleslaw Recipe
• Pineapple Marshmallow Coleslaw
• Sweet and Sour Coleslaw
• Vinegar-Based Coleslaw

Favorite Cabbage Recipes to Try

• Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef
• Cooked Cabbage with Bacon
• Skillet Cabbage

Check out more of my easy salad recipes and the best side dish recipes here on CopyKat!

Thanks to Chef Boy RV for sharing this recipe.