Ranch Coleslaw Recipe (Easy Summer Slaw)
Updated: April 2026
This ranch coleslaw recipe is a quick and easy twist on classic homemade coleslaw.
Crunchy cabbage, carrots and red onion are tossed in creamy ranch dressing for a fresh, tangy slaw that’s perfect with BBQ food, burgers, chicken, sandwiches, wraps and baked potatoes.
It’s ready in around 15 minutes, uses simple ingredients and makes a great summer side dish for picnics, potlucks and family dinners.
Quick Answer – How Do You Make Ranch Coleslaw?
To make ranch coleslaw, shred cabbage, slice red onion, cut carrots into matchsticks, then toss everything together with 2–3 tablespoons of ranch dressing until coated.
Serve straight away or chill until needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 15 minutes
- Great BBQ side dish
- Creamy, crunchy and tangy
- Easy to make with shop-bought ranch dressing
- Delicious in sandwiches and wraps
- Simple to customise with bacon, cheese or herbs
Ingredients For Ranch Coleslaw
You’ll need:
- ½ red onion, finely sliced
- 2 carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks
- ½ white cabbage, shredded
- 2–3 tablespoons ranch dressing
Equipment Needed
You’ll need:
- chopping board
- sharp knife
- mixing bowl
- tablespoon
- serving bowl
How To Make Ranch Coleslaw
Step 1 – Prepare The Vegetables
Finely slice the red onion.
Peel the carrots and cut them into matchsticks.
Shred the cabbage.
Step 2 – Mix With Ranch Dressing
Add the onion, carrots and cabbage to a large mixing bowl.
Spoon over the ranch dressing.
Toss everything together gently until the vegetables are coated in the dressing.
Step 3 – Serve
Tip the ranch coleslaw into a clean serving bowl.
Serve straight away or chill in the fridge until needed.
What To Serve With Ranch Coleslaw
Ranch coleslaw works with loads of easy meals.
Try it with:
- burgers
- BBQ chicken
- grilled chicken
- chicken wraps
- pulled pork
- fish fingers
- baked potatoes
- pastrami sandwiches
- hot dogs
- air fryer chips
- picnic food
Can You Make Ranch Coleslaw Ahead?
Yes, you can make it a little ahead, but it’s best eaten the same day.
For the crispest texture, prepare the vegetables in advance and add the ranch dressing shortly before serving.
How To Store Ranch Coleslaw
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and eat within 24 hours.
Give it a quick stir before serving.
More Coleslaw Recipes
Try these next:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ranch coleslaw made from?
Ranch coleslaw is made with shredded cabbage, carrots, red onion and ranch dressing.
Can I use shop-bought ranch dressing for coleslaw?
Yes, shop-bought ranch dressing works really well and makes this recipe quick and easy.
Can I make ranch coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best eaten the same day. For the crunchiest texture, add the dressing shortly before serving.
What can I add to ranch coleslaw?
You can add crispy bacon, grated Cheddar, chopped chives, spring onions, jalapeños, sweetcorn or croutons.
How long does ranch coleslaw last in the fridge?
Ranch coleslaw is best eaten within 24 hours and should be kept covered in the fridge.
What goes well with ranch coleslaw?
Ranch coleslaw goes well with burgers, BBQ chicken, wraps, baked potatoes, pulled pork, sandwiches and picnic food.
Ranch Coleslaw Recipe
Easy ranch coleslaw made with crunchy cabbage, carrots, red onion and creamy ranch dressing. A quick summer slaw for BBQs, burgers, wraps and picnics.
Ingredients
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks
- ½ white cabbage, shredded
- 2–3 tablespoons ranch dressing
Instructions
- Finely slice the red onion.
- Peel the carrots and cut into matchsticks.
- Shred the cabbage.
- Add the onion, carrots and cabbage to a large mixing bowl.
- Add 2–3 tablespoons of ranch dressing.
- Toss gently until all the vegetables are coated.
- Tip into a clean serving bowl and serve.
Notes
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 15Total Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gSodium: 14mgCarbohydrates: 4gFiber: 1gSugar: 2gProtein: 0g
Nutritional content will vary depending on the exact ingredients you use and how careful you are with measuring - this nutritional information is given as a general guide only and may not be accurate - you should always calculate your own nutritional information especially if you have specific dietary requirements.
Wendy is the creator of Daisies & Pie, a UK food blog sharing easy meals and home lifestyle tips since 2012
