Costco Cabbage Coleslaw Recipe (Quick & Easy To Make)

Costco cabbage coleslaw is that creamy, crunchy salad mix that’s already done most of the work for you. It’s famous for being a fast side dish that tastes fresh—even though it comes straight from a bag.

I started making it at home with my own twist, and honestly, it turned out better than I expected.

Why should you try it? Because it’s quick, no cooking needed, and makes a great match with grilled meat, sandwiches, or tacos. Most important, you don’t have to arrange vegetables for coleslaw.

The cabbage mix has green and red cabbage with shredded carrots, and I add a simple mayo-based dressing to bring it all together.

If you’re tired of boring sides or just want something easy that still feels homemade—this one’s for you. Keep reading and let’s make it delicious.

Do You Need To Cook Costco Cabbage For Coleslaw?

Nope, no cooking needed at all! That’s what I love most about this. The Costco Cabbage Coleslaw Mix comes ready to use. It’s easy to make compare to buffalo wild wings restaurant coleslaw.

It’s already washed and shredded, so you can just open the bag and go. Makes prep a breeze, especially when you’re short on time. All you do is add your dressing and mix-ins. Super simple.

Why You’ll Love This Costco Cabbage Coleslaw

• Ready in minutes – no stove, no fuss.
• Crunchy and fresh – thanks to the pre-shredded cabbage and carrots.
• Customizable – add in extras like raisins, nuts, or even jalapeños if you like a kick.
• Perfect side dish – pairs well with grilled meat, sandwiches, or fried food.
• Tastes homemade – even though it uses a store-bought mix, it feels like something made from scratch.

Ingredients for Costco Cabbage Coleslaw

• 1 (32 oz) bag Costco Cabbage Coleslaw Mix – I love this mix ’cause it saves me so much time. It has green cabbage, a bit of red cabbage, and shredded carrots. Everything’s fresh and ready to go.
• 2 scallions, finely chopped – These give a nice, light onion flavor without being overpowering. Just a little extra something in every bite.
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise – Creamy and smooth. This binds the dressing and gives it that classic slaw feel.
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar – A pinch of sweetness brings out the natural flavor of the cabbage. Not too sweet, just right.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Helps bring out all the flavors. I always taste at the end and adjust if needed.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Just a touch of pepper for a tiny bit of bite.
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider) – This gives a tangy kick that really freshens up the whole dish. I usually go with apple cider.
• Juice of 1/2 lemon – Adds brightness and helps balance the mayo. Plus, fresh lemon juice makes everything taste better.
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes – This adds a touch of color and flavor. You could use fresh if you have it, but dried works great too.

Ingredients Substitutions To Try

• Greek yogurt instead of mayo if you want a lighter dressing.
• Maple syrup or honey instead of sugar for a more natural sweetness.
• Fresh herbs like cilantro or dill can swap in for parsley.
• Green onions can replace scallions if that’s what you have.
• Lime juice works instead of lemon for a twist.
• Red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like spicy.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Sharp knife and cutting board (for scallions)
• Spatula or large spoon for mixing
• Plastic wrap or airtight lid (for chilling)

How To Make The Costco Cabbage Coleslaw

Step 1: Prep the Veggies

Open the bag of Costco Cabbage Coleslaw Mix and pour it into a big mixing bowl. Use your clean hands to gently squeeze it a bit. This helps get rid of any extra moisture so the dressing doesn’t get watery.

Step 2: Add the Scallions

Chop up your scallions nice and fine and toss ’em in with the coleslaw mix.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayo, sugar, salt, pepper, vinegar, lemon juice, and parsley flakes. Mix until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing right over the cabbage mix and scallions. Use a big spoon or spatula to toss it all until everything’s evenly coated.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Taste it. Sometimes I add just a little more salt or lemon juice, depending on how it’s tasting that day.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors come together and makes it taste even better. Serve the cabbage coleslaw chilled.

Tips To Make It Perfect Coleslaw

• Squeeze out moisture from the coleslaw mix so dressing sticks better.
• Always chill before serving for best flavor.
• Use fresh lemon juice if possible.
• Whisk dressing until smooth—no lumps.
• Don’t overmix the cabbage. Toss gently.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Making Costco Coleslaw

• Skipping the chilling – It really needs that 30 minutes in the fridge.
• Too much dressing – Start with less and add more as needed.
• Not tasting before serving – Always taste and adjust seasoning.
• Using wet cabbage – Pat it dry or squeeze out if too damp.
• Overmixing – It bruises the cabbage and turns it mushy.

What To Serve with This Costco Cabbage Coleslaw

• Grilled or Fried Chicken: The crisp, refreshing texture of the coleslaw balances the savory flavors of chicken.
• Barbecue Ranes or Pulled Pork: The creamy slaw complements smoky, rich barbecue meats perfectly.
• Fish Tacos or Fried Fish: Coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that work well with seafood.
• Burgers or Sandwiches: Use the coleslaw as a topping or a side to add a cool contrast.
• Grilled Sausages or Hot Dogs: Classic pairing with the creamy tang of coleslaw.
• Roasted or Grilled Vegetables: For a lighter option, complement roast veggies with coleslaw for extra texture and flavor.
• Picnic or Potluck Meals: It’s a versatile side that goes with many finger foods and casual dishes.

How To Store Leftover Coleslaw

Just transfer your leftover coleslaw into an airtight container and stick it in the fridge. It stays good for up to 3 days. I like to give it a quick stir before serving again.

If it looks a little watery, just drain off some liquid and add a tiny spoon of mayo to freshen it up.

FAQs

1. Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely. I often make it the night before. It actually tastes better the next day after the flavors soak in.

2. Is this coleslaw gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients here are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your vinegar and mayo to be safe.

3. Can I use fresh cabbage instead of the Costco mix?
Sure! Just shred about 6-7 cups of green and red cabbage and a couple carrots. But the Costco mix saves time.

4. How long does this coleslaw last in the fridge?
Usually 2-3 days. After that, it gets a little soggy.

5. Can I freeze coleslaw?
Not this kind. The mayo-based dressing doesn’t freeze well. It separates and gets watery.

6. What type of vinegar is best?
I use apple cider vinegar most times. It has a nice mellow tang. White vinegar works fine too.

7. Can I make it spicy?
Yes! Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a little diced jalapeño if you want heat.

8. How do I fix watery coleslaw?
Squeeze out the cabbage mix before adding dressing. Or just drain off liquid and stir in a spoon of mayo.

9. Can I use light mayo or miracle whip?
Yes to both. Just know the flavor might be a little different. I stick with regular mayo for best taste.

10. What can I add for extra crunch?
Chopped nuts like almonds or sunflower seeds work great. Even crushed ramen noodles are fun for a twist.