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Creamy Jalapeño Cheddar Coleslaw

creamy jalapeño cheddar coleslaw - featured image

A creamy, tangy coleslaw with a spicy kick from jalapeños and sharp cheddar cheese, perfect for summer cookouts and backyard barbecues.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups green cabbage, thinly shredded
  • 4 cups red cabbage, thinly shredded
  • 1 cup carrots, peeled and shredded
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
  • 2 medium fresh jalapeños, seeds removed or kept, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (plus 1 tablespoon for soaking jalapeños)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Green onions, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Shred the green and red cabbage and carrots finely using a knife or mandoline. Place in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Remove seeds and membranes from jalapeños if milder heat is desired. Finely dice the jalapeños. Soak diced jalapeños in 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar for 5 minutes, then drain.
  3. Grate 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, honey, yellow mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables in the large bowl. Add diced jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly without making the cabbage soggy.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and jalapeño heat to mellow. Overnight chilling is recommended for best flavor.
  7. Before serving, stir gently and add sliced green onions if using. Taste and adjust salt or vinegar if needed. Drain any excess liquid if the coleslaw appears watery.

Notes

Use sharp cheddar for best flavor. Soaking jalapeños in vinegar mellows the heat. Chill for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best taste. Drain excess liquid before serving if needed. For dairy-free or low-carb versions, see variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: coleslaw, jalapeño, cheddar, creamy, spicy, barbecue, side dish, summer, easy recipe