Jimmy’s Coleslaw Dressing Recipe – Restaurant Quality at Home

Last summer, my family planned a big backyard cookout for the Fourth of July. My husband was busy preparing his famous barbecue ribs while I took care of all the side dishes.

The pressure was on because my mother-in-law makes the most amazing coleslaw, and everyone always asks for her secret.

That day, I decided to try something new and bought Jimmy’s coleslaw dressing from the local grocery store.

Jimmy’s Cole Slaw Dressing is the number one selling Cole Slaw Dressing in Minnesota, so my hopes were high.

When I served the salad, everyone kept asking what made it taste so good. The creamy, tangy flavor was perfect with our grilled meats.

Now I make my own version of Jimmy’s coleslaw dressing recipe at home, and it brings back those happy summer memories every time.

Why You’ll Love This Coleslaw Dressing

There are many reasons this dressing is a favorite:

1. Easy to Make – The recipe uses only a few simple ingredients, and the process takes minutes.
2. Perfect Balance – Sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors blend together for the classic coleslaw taste.
3. Family Friendly – Works for big gatherings, quick lunches, or weeknight dinners.
4. Versatile – Jimmy’s Coleslaw Dressing can be used not just on coleslaw but also as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, or wraps.
5. Loved by Many – Since it is already the best-selling dressing in Minnesota, you know it has been trusted for years.

Jimmy’s Coleslaw Dressing Ingredients

• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The creamy base that holds everything together and gives the dressing its smooth texture. Use full-fat mayonnaise for the best results. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, but the taste will be slightly different.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (1/4 cup): Provides the tangy kick that balances the richness of the mayonnaise. The acidity helps brighten all the flavors. White vinegar can work as a substitute, but apple cider vinegar gives a more complex, fruity taste.
• White Sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds sweetness that balances the vinegar’s tartness. Granulated sugar dissolves easily and creates the classic coleslaw flavor. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup, but use slightly less as they’re sweeter than sugar.
• Smoked Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): The secret ingredient that adds depth and a subtle smoky flavor without overpowering the dressing. Regular paprika works fine, but smoked paprika makes it special. Start with less and add more to taste.

Recommended Equipment

1. Small mixing bowl – For combining ingredients
2. Whisk or fork – Blends everything smooth
3. Measuring cups – Accurate ingredient portions
4. Measuring spoons – For small amounts
5. Large mixing bowl – For tossing coleslaw

How to Make Jimmy’s Coleslaw Dressing

Step 1 | Mix the Mayonnaise and Vinegar

Add the half cup of mayonnaise to the bowl. This forms the creamy foundation of your dressing. Then pour in the quarter cup of apple cider vinegar slowly while whisking gently to prevent the mixture from separating.

Step 2 | Add Sugar and Paprika

Sprinkle the two tablespoons of white sugar evenly over the mixture. Whisk thoroughly until the sugar dissolves completely and you no longer see any granules.

Add the quarter teaspoon of smoked paprika and continue whisking until the dressing is smooth and uniform in color.

Step 3 | Let the Dressing Rest

Cover the bowl and let the dressing rest for 20 minutes at room temperature. This allows the sugar to dissolve fully and prevents any gritty texture. It also helps the flavors blend together for a more balanced taste.

Step 4 | Final Stir and Taste

After resting, give the dressing one last stir. The mixture should be smooth, creamy, and well-blended.

Step 5 | Toss with Coleslaw

Place your prepared coleslaw mix in a large bowl. Start with a small amount of dressing and toss gently. Add more dressing until the cabbage is evenly coated but not swimming in it.

Let the dressed coleslaw sit for 10 minutes before serving so the flavors soak into the vegetables.

Chef Tips + Notes

• For Best Flavor: Make the dressing a few hours before you need it. Letting it sit in the fridge helps all the flavors blend together perfectly.
• Creamier Dressing: For an even creamier texture, you can add one more tablespoon of mayonnaise.
• Adjust spice levels gradually: Start with less paprika and taste as you go to avoid overwhelming the tang.
• Avoid overmixing: Stir just enough to coat to keep the slaw from getting mushy.
• Use fresh veggies: Opt for crisp cabbage to maintain texture after dressing.

What Goes Well with Jimmy’s Coleslaw Dressing

Jimmy’s Coleslaw Dressing is the kind of side that works with almost any meal. It pairs beautifully with BBQ classics like ribs, pulled pork, or smoked chicken.

It’s also great next to fried fish, burgers, or even tucked into sandwiches for an extra crunch.

Many people even use it as a topping for tacos or hot dogs to give them a tangy twist.

This dressing can be used with coleslaw too. Drizzle a little on grilled veggies, use it as a spread on sandwiches, or mix it with cooked pasta for a quick cold salad.

Make-Ahead and Storage

1. Make-Ahead: This dressing is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it and keep it in a closed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before you need it.

2. How to Store: Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 5 to 7 days. Always give it a good stir before using it again.

Jimmy’s Coleslaw Dressing Recipe FAQs

1. My dressing is too tangy. How can I fix it?

If the dressing is too tangy for you, just mix in a little more mayonnaise and another half tablespoon of sugar. Stir it well and taste it until it is just right for you.

2. How can I make Jimmy’s Coleslaw Dressing lighter?

A lighter version can be made by replacing half or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. This keeps the creamy texture but lowers the fat content.

Another option is using low-fat mayo. Both give you a healthier version without losing too much flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe without sugar?

For a sugar-free version, you can use a granulated sugar substitute that measures like real sugar. The taste might be slightly different, but it will still be good.

4. How much coleslaw will this dressing cover?

This recipe makes enough dressing to coat one standard 14-ounce bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix perfectly. It is enough for a side dish for about 6 people.

5. Can I use low-fat mayonnaise for this recipe?

Yes, low-fat mayonnaise works fine for Jimmy’s Coleslaw Dressing. It creates a lighter dressing but still tastes creamy and tangy. The texture might be slightly thinner, so start with less vinegar and adjust to your preference.

6. What’s the best type of coleslaw mix to use with this dressing?

This dressing works well with any coleslaw mix, but traditional green cabbage provides the classic experience.

Pre-shredded coleslaw mix from the grocery store is convenient and saves time, typically containing green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots.

7. For the freshest taste, shred your own cabbage using a sharp knife or food processor.

The dressing also works beautifully with broccoli slaw, Brussels sprouts slaw, or even a mix of shredded vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and onions.

Choose vegetables that are firm and fresh for the best crunch and flavor absorption.

This easy Jimmy’s coleslaw dressing recipe delivers the classic flavor you love. It is quick to prepare with simple ingredients and always gets compliments.

Perfect for weeknights or big parties, this dressing will become your new favorite.