Buffalo Wild Wings Coleslaw Recipe (Perfect with BBQ)

When we’re at Buffalo Wild Wings, I’m all about the wings. But if there’s one thing I always make sure to grab on the side? It’s that creamy, cool, crunchy coleslaw.

It’s not fancy. Honestly, some folks think it’s kind of basic. But I love how it cuts through all that spicy, saucy heat. It’s got just enough tang and sweetness to balance everything out — and when it’s done right? Total sleeper hit.

Now, I’m not about to pay an upcharge every time I want a little scoop of slaw, so I started playing around with it at home — and y’all, this version hits the mark and then some. It’s creamy. It’s zippy. It’s got sweet pickle relish (because yes, we’re doing it right). And it takes like 10 minutes to throw together.

So whether you’re making wings at home, throwing together a pulled pork sandwich, or just need something cold and crunchy for your cookout — this BWW coleslaw copycat recipe one’s for you.

What Cabbages are Best for This Coleslaw Mix

When I make coleslaw at home, I like to keep things simple. I usually buy the pre-shredded coleslaw mix from the store — it’s made with green cabbage and a little carrot already in it.

But if you want to shred your own, I recommend using fresh green cabbage because it has the best crunch and holds up well once the dressing goes on. You can also mix in a bit of purple cabbage for color or savoy cabbage if you want a softer texture.

But for that Buffalo Wild Wings flavor, go with the regular green kind.

Ingredients for Buffalo Wild Wings Coleslaw

For the Dressing:

• 1 cup Blue Plate Mayonnaise (or any real mayo you like) – Mayo is the creamy base that pulls everything together and gives coleslaw that rich, classic flavor.
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar – Vinegar adds that tangy bite, balancing out the sweetness and making the slaw taste fresh instead of heavy.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – Sugar sweetens things up and helps cut the sharpness from the vinegar and onion, giving the slaw that signature sweet-and-tangy taste.
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper – Pepper brings a little kick and depth — those tiny flecks add flavor in every bite.
• ½ to 1 tsp kosher salt, to taste – Salt ties everything together and makes the other flavors pop, just adjust it the way you like.

For the Slaw:

• 2 bags (14 oz each) pre-shredded coleslaw mix (green cabbage and carrots) – Cabbage and carrots bring the crunch, color, and freshness that every good coleslaw needs. Using the bag mix makes it quick and easy.
• 1 small onion, finely diced – Onion adds a little bite and sharpness that keeps the slaw from being too sweet.
• ⅔ cup sweet pickle relish – Sweet relish is the secret twist — it gives that tangy-sweet flavor that makes this slaw taste just like Buffalo Wild Wings.

How To Make Buffalo Wild Wings Coleslaw

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and kosher salt. I like to whisk it until the sugar is completely dissolved and everything is smooth and creamy.

This dressing is what makes the slaw taste just like the Buffalo Wild Wings version — sweet, tangy, and full of flavor.

Step 2: Prep the Slaw Mix

In a big mixing bowl, add both bags of coleslaw mix. Toss in the diced onion and the sweet pickle relish. Give it a gentle stir to spread out the ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Add the Dressing

Now, pour all that creamy dressing over the slaw mix. Don’t leave any behind — I always scrape the bowl clean with a spatula. You want every bit of that flavor to go into the slaw.

Step 4: Mix it All Together

Use a large spoon or spatula to fold the slaw together. Don’t stir too hard — just fold until all the cabbage is nicely coated in dressing. You want to keep the cabbage crisp and not mash it down.

Step 5: Chill and Let It Set

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and put it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This part is important — the flavors need time to soak into the cabbage. When it comes out, the slaw is creamy, crunchy, and just right.

Recipe Notes

1. Use Blue Plate mayo for the best flavor, but any real mayo works.
2. Let it chill longer if you can — overnight is even better.
3. If your onion is too strong, soak it in cold water for 10 minutes first.
4. Taste the slaw before serving and adjust salt or sugar if needed.
5. Stir it again before serving to freshen it up.

Recipe Variations

• Add celery seed or a splash of lemon juice for extra zip.
• Use red onion instead of white for a bolder flavor.
• Toss in chopped green onions or fresh parsley for color and a fresh bite.
• Try it with shredded broccoli slaw mix if you want something a little different.
• Want it less sweet? Just cut back the sugar to ⅓ cup.

What To Serve

Buffalo Wild Wings coleslaw is a classic, creamy side that pairs well with a variety of main dishes, especially those with bold or spicy flavors. Here are top options to serve with BWW coleslaw:

• Chicken Wings (bone-in or boneless): The crisp, tangy slaw balances the heat and richness of Buffalo-style wings.
• Ribs: Coleslaw’s cool crunch contrasts well with smoky, saucy ribs.
• Fried or Grilled Chicken: A classic pairing, as the slaw cuts through the savory, sometimes greasy main.
• Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Coleslaw adds texture and a refreshing bite to BBQ sandwiches.
• Burgers or Sliders: Use coleslaw as a topping or side for added crunch and flavor.
• Fish (fried or grilled): The acidity and creaminess of coleslaw complement mild, flaky fish.
• French Fries or Onion Rings: For a casual, classic combo.

Thanks for hanging out with me today. I hope you give this Buffalo Wild Wings Coleslaw Recipe a try the next time you’re cooking up wings, firing up the grill, or just need a quick, creamy side dish. It’s cool, crunchy, a little sweet, and it balances out all that smoky, spicy food perfectly.

All it takes is a few simple ingredients — cabbage, carrots, mayo, vinegar, and sweet relish — and a little chill time in the fridge. That’s it. Nothing fussy, just the kind of side you can count on to disappear fast at the table.

When you make it, drop a comment and let me know how it turned out, what you paired it with, and if you added your own twist. I love hearing from you and swapping ideas for easy homemade sides.

And if you’re hanging out on Pinterest, be sure to save this Buffalo Wild Wings Coleslaw so you can find it again when BBQ season rolls around. Don’t forget to follow me there too — I’m always sharing more easy recipes, copycat favorites, and simple family meals you can make tonight.