If you’ve ever wondered what goes with coleslaw, look no further. In this post, you’ll find over 25 dinner ideas that go perfectly your creamy coleslaw. From classic favorites like hamburgers, hot dogs, and pulled pork to other fun options such as tacos, grilled fish, and shrimp skewers, you’ll find a wide range of pairings to satisfy any hungry family.

Coleslaw is a great side dish to have on hand, especially during hot weather.
It has minimal ingredients, can be made quickly, and usually keeps for a couple of days. Sometimes it’s even better after a day or two!
But what do you serve with coleslaw?
My family consumes coleslaw like nobody’s business so I have lots of experience cooking up different main dishes to go with coleslaw.
Of course there are the traditional options like a pulled pork sandwich or ribs, but there are plenty of other great dinner ideas too.
Keep scrolling to read more about coleslaw (including some seriuosly tasty coleslaw recipes that my family loves) and to get inspired for what to make for dinner next!
What is traditional coleslaw made of?
Traditionally coleslaw consists of shredded cabbage and a dressing. Green cabbage is most often used, though other types of cabbage like purple or red cabbage, kale cabbage, or even shredded Brussels sprouts can be used too. Other common ingredients that are added include carrots, other types of cabbage, chopped fruit, or green onion.
What is the dressing on coleslaw made of?
In the US the dressing is usually made of mayonnaise, some type of vinegar, and a sweetener, with other ingredients like salt, pepper, or mustard often added. The dressing can also be more of a vinaigrette, without mayo.
For a more typical version, try this healthy coleslaw dressing. For a vinegar-based dressing, try this honey orange vinaigrette.
How to make coleslaw
While the primary ingredient for classic coleslaw is cabbage, there are lots variations and foods that can be added to coleslaw to zhuzh it up. In most cases, there are a couple basic steps to follow in a homemade coleslaw recipe.
- Make the dressing.
- Thinly slice the cabbage.
- Slice whatever other vegetables or fruits you’re using.
- Add everything together in a bowl and stir.
Of course you can always buy pre-cut coleslaw mix at the store, as well as coleslaw dressing if you prefer.
But if you’re wanting something a little different or to make it from scratch, check out the following coleslaw recipes:
Dinner ideas
From the super common to the more original, there are lots of different options when thinking about what goes well with coleslaw. Here are just some ideas:
- Hamburgers
- Hot dogs
- Pulled pork
- Tacos
- Steak
- Smoked ribs
- Pork chops
- Carnitas
- Short ribs
- Brisket
- Sloppy joes
- Grilled brats
- Fried chicken
- Reuban sandwich
- Grilled chicken thighs
- Grilled chicken breast
- Grilled fish
- Shrimp skewers
- Mushroom burgers
- Pulled jackfruit
- Veggie skewers
To see more specific ideas for what meat goes with coleslaw, check out the following recipes and pick what works best for your family.
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