There are certain side dishes that show up at every cookout, picnic, and holiday table, and coleslaw is one of them. It’s simple, inexpensive, and pairs with everything from barbecue to fried fish. The catch is that most coleslaw recipes mean measuring out several seasonings every single time.
That’s why I keep a Dry Coleslaw Mix in the pantry. With the seasonings already blended, making coleslaw becomes a two-minute job: scoop, mix with mayo and vinegar, toss with cabbage, done.
Why Keep a Coleslaw Mix in the Pantry
Most people reach for a mix when they think tacos or ranch, but coleslaw deserves the same treatment. If your family eats it often, a ready-made blend saves you from pulling out the same eight spice jars every time.
A Great Pairing for Barbecue Night
Few sides complement smoky meat like coleslaw does. If you’re already stocking pantry shortcuts for cookouts, my Dry BBQ Sauce Mix is a natural partner, both are ready in minutes with what’s already on your shelf.
Perfect for Last-Minute Gatherings
When someone says they’re stopping by, or you’re asked to bring a side dish, having the mix ready means you skip the recipe search entirely.
More Than Just Cabbage
Try it with broccoli slaw, shredded Brussels sprouts, or add apples, raisins, or dried cranberries. The mix gives you a flavorful base; the mix-ins are up to you.
Build Out Your Pantry Mix Collection
Once you start keeping coleslaw mix on hand, it’s easy to expand. My Buttermilk Ranch Mix, Taco Seasoning Mix, and Chicken Gravy Mix all follow the same scoop-and-go logic, or see the full lineup in my Ultimate Homemade Pantry Mix Collection.
Budget-Friendly Pantry Cooking
Premade dressing packets add up. Making your own from pantry staples costs less per batch and you control exactly what’s in it.
A Thoughtful Mason Jar Gift
Pair a jar of the dry mix with BBQ sauce or a seasoning blend for an easy, practical gift basket addition.
Dry Coleslaw Mix
Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered buttermilk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 Tbsp dried minced onion
- 1 Tbsp celery seed
- 2 tsp dry mustard
- 2 tsp parsley flakes
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
To Make Coleslaw
- Mix:
- 2 Tbsp Dry Coleslaw Kit Mix
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
Toss with:
- 1 bag coleslaw mix (14–16 oz)
- Refrigerate 30 minutes before serving.
Variations
Sweet Southern Coleslaw
- Increase sugar to 1/3 cup
Tangy Deli Coleslaw
- Add 1 tsp dill weed
BBQ Slaw
- Add 1 tsp smoked paprika
Broccoli Slaw Version
- Works exactly the same with broccoli slaw mix.
How much sugar do I use for the Sweet Southern Coleslaw variation?
Use 1/3 cup of sugar total in the dry mix recipe, replacing the 1/4 cup called for in the base recipe — not in addition to it.
Can I make this without mayonnaise?
Yes. Swap the mayonnaise for a vinaigrette with a higher vinegar-to-oil ratio – about 3 parts vinegar to 1 part oil works well and keeps the coleslaw tangy rather than creamy.
How long does the dry mix keep?
Stored in an airtight container in the pantry, the dry mix stays good for up to 6 months.
Can I use this with broccoli slaw instead of cabbage?
Yes, it works the same way – just substitute a bag of broccoli slaw for the coleslaw mix.
How far ahead can I make the finished coleslaw?
It’s best within 1-2 days. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors have time to blend.
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