Can I use pre-shredded cabbage to save time?

You can, but Dolly's recipe specifically calls for minced cabbage rather than shredded. Pre-shredded cabbage is typically cut in longer strips, which gives a different texture. If you're short on time, pulse store-bought shredded cabbage in a food processor to get it finer.

Is there a substitute for sweet pickle juice if I don't have any?

If you don't have sweet pickle juice, you can substitute with 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar mixed with 1 tablespoon of sugar. It won't have quite the same depth of flavor, but it will provide the sweet-tangy element the recipe needs.

How far in advance can I make this coleslaw?

This coleslaw can be made up to 2 days ahead of when you plan to serve it. In fact, many people feel it tastes better on the second day when the flavors have had time to develop and meld together.

My coleslaw seems too watery after sitting. How can I fix this?

If your coleslaw becomes watery, drain off excess liquid, then stir in a little more mayo to refresh the dressing. In the future, you can salt your cabbage and let it sit for 15-30 minutes in a colander before mixing with the dressing to draw out excess moisture.

Dolly Parton's Coleslaw Recipe

Name: Dolly Parton's Coleslaw Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1/4 cup sweet pickle juice; 1/4 cup white vinegar; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar; 1/8 teaspoon celery salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish; 1 medium head cabbage, minced; 1 medium onion, finely minced; 1 carrot, minced or grated; 1/2 bell pepper, minced

This legendary Dolly Parton’s Coleslaw recipe delivers the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors with a satisfying crunch in every bite. It’s a classic side dish that brings vibrant color to your table and complements everything from barbecue to fried chicken. The simple preparation method makes it ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or weeknight dinners when you need something fresh to round out your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Cooking Required: Just chop, mix, and chill—it doesn’t get easier than that! Perfect for hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the stove.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This coleslaw actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to mingle, making it perfect for busy schedules.
Crowd-Pleaser: The balanced flavor profile appeals to both coleslaw enthusiasts and those who typically shy away from cabbage dishes.
Versatile Side Dish: Pairs beautifully with nearly any main course, from backyard barbecues to holiday feasts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cabbage: The star of the show, providing that essential crunch. Using a medium head gives you the perfect amount for a family-sized batch.
Carrot: Adds natural sweetness, beautiful color, and extra nutrients to the mix.
Onion: Provides a gentle bite that mellows as the coleslaw sits. The fine mince ensures no overwhelming onion chunks.
Bell Pepper: Contributes a fresh, slightly sweet crunch and vibrant color contrast.
Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base that binds everything together.
White Vinegar: Delivers that essential tang that makes coleslaw so refreshing.
Sweet Pickle Juice: The secret ingredient! Adds complexity and a touch of sweetness without being overtly “pickley.”
Sugar: Balances the acidity from the vinegar and pickle juice for a perfectly harmonized dressing.
Dill Pickle Relish: Provides tiny bursts of tangy flavor and interesting texture throughout.
Seasonings (salt, black pepper, celery salt): The perfect blend to enhance all the other flavors without overwhelming them.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Texture Play

Crunchy Addition: Add a handful of sunflower seeds or sliced almonds just before serving for extra texture.
Crisp Apple: Fold in some julienned Granny Smith apple for a sweet-tart crunch.

Flavor Twists

Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the dressing for heat lovers.
Herb-Forward: Mix in some chopped fresh dill, parsley, or chives for a garden-fresh flavor.

Dietary Adaptations

Lighter Version: Substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter slaw.
Vegan-Friendly: Use a plant-based mayonnaise and check that your pickle relish is vegan.

How to Make Dolly Parton’s Coleslaw

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet pickle juice, white vinegar, mayonnaise, sugar, celery salt, black pepper, and salt until smooth and well combined. Add the dill pickle relish and give it another good stir.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Finely mince the cabbage, onion, carrot, and bell pepper. The fine cut is key to this coleslaw’s texture—it allows the dressing to coat every piece perfectly and creates a cohesive mixture rather than chunky pieces.

Step 3: Combine and Marinate

In a large bowl, toss the prepared vegetables with the dressing until everything is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Place in the refrigerator for at least one hour, though longer is even better.

Step 4: Serve

Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir to redistribute the dressing that may have settled at the bottom. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Mechanical Help: Use a food processor with the slicing/shredding attachment for quick and uniform vegetable prep.
Drain Well: If your cabbage seems particularly watery, salt it lightly and let it sit in a colander for 15 minutes, then press out excess moisture before mixing with the dressing.
Mincing Matters: Don’t skimp on the fine mincing—it’s what makes Dolly’s version stand out from chunkier slaws.
Taste Test: The flavors will develop and mellow over time, so if it tastes a bit sharp at first, give it time to rest before adjusting seasonings.
Consistent Color: If using purple cabbage for color, keep in mind it may turn your dressing slightly pink, especially after sitting overnight.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

Serve this coleslaw alongside pulled pork sandwiches, fried chicken, or grilled burgers for a classic combination. The tangy crunch cuts through rich, fatty meats beautifully.

Creative Serving Ideas

Topping: Use as a crunchy topping for fish tacos or pulled pork sandwiches.
Stuffing: Stuff into baked potatoes with barbecue meat for a complete meal.
Bed: Serve grilled fish or chicken over a bed of this coleslaw for a light summer meal.

Presentation

For a pretty presentation, serve in a shallow bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or a few fresh herb leaves. A beautiful pottery serving dish makes this humble side shine at the dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The vegetables will soften slightly over time but will remain delicious.

Make Ahead Tips

This coleslaw is actually best made 8-24 hours ahead of time, making it perfect for entertaining. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, and the prep work is done well before your guests arrive.

Freezing

Unfortunately, coleslaw doesn’t freeze well due to the mayo-based dressing and the high water content of the vegetables. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage to save time?

You can, but Dolly’s recipe specifically calls for minced cabbage rather than shredded. Pre-shredded cabbage is typically cut in longer strips, which gives a different texture. If you’re short on time, pulse store-bought shredded cabbage in a food processor to get it finer.
Is there a substitute for sweet pickle juice if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have sweet pickle juice, you can substitute with 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar mixed with 1 tablespoon of sugar. It won’t have quite the same depth of flavor, but it will provide the sweet-tangy element the recipe needs.
How far in advance can I make this coleslaw?

This coleslaw can be made up to 2 days ahead of when you plan to serve it. In fact, many people feel it tastes better on the second day when the flavors have had time to develop and meld together.
My coleslaw seems too watery after sitting. How can I fix this?

If your coleslaw becomes watery, drain off excess liquid, then stir in a little more mayo to refresh the dressing. In the future, you can salt your cabbage and let it sit for 15-30 minutes in a colander before mixing with the dressing to draw out excess moisture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something special about making a recipe that comes from the Queen of Country herself. Dolly Parton’s Coleslaw isn’t just delicious—it’s a taste of Southern hospitality on a plate. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and balance. Each bite delivers the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements that make a great coleslaw truly shine. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a fresh side to brighten up your weeknight dinner, this coleslaw recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself humming “9 to 5” while you chop that cabbage!