If you’re tired of the usual mayonnaise-heavy coleslaw, Ina Garten’s Blue Cheese Coleslaw offers a flavorful twist. This creamy and tangy side dish combines classic cabbage crunch with the sharp bite of blue cheese, making it perfect for BBQs, burgers, or even as a salad-style side on steak night. It’s easy to make, refreshingly different, and always a hit.

What is Ina Garten’s Blue Cheese Coleslaw?

Ina Garten’s Blue Cheese Coleslaw is a fresh cabbage-based salad tossed in a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, and blue cheese. It’s a more elevated version of traditional coleslaw—rich, tangy, and layered with flavor. With just the right balance of creaminess and crunch, this recipe adds a gourmet touch to casual meals.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Blue Cheese Coleslaw

Bold flavor upgrade – Blue cheese adds a gourmet twist
Pairs with grilled meats – Especially burgers and steaks
Quick to prepare – Comes together in just 15 minutes
Texture lovers’ dream – Creamy dressing, crunchy cabbage
Ideal for make-ahead meals – Gets better after chilling
Versatile side dish – Works at picnics, potlucks, or dinner
Ina-approved simplicity – Elegant ingredients, minimal fuss

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Blue Cheese Coleslaw

½ small green cabbage, finely shredded (about 5 cups)
½ small red cabbage, finely shredded (about 5 cups)
2 large carrots, grated
¾ cup good-quality mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon celery seed (optional, for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
6–8 ounces crumbled blue cheese (preferably Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
½ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for color and freshness)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Blue Cheese Coleslaw

Prep the vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and grated carrots. Toss lightly to mix and break up clumps.

Make the dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, Dijon mustard, celery seed (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth.

Add the blue cheese

Stir the crumbled blue cheese into the dressing, reserving a few tablespoons for garnish if desired.

Combine and toss

Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss well to evenly coat the vegetables. Make sure all the slaw is covered with the creamy dressing.

Chill before serving

Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors blend and the cabbage soften slightly.

Garnish and serve

Top with extra blue cheese crumbles and fresh parsley right before serving for added color and flavor.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Blue Cheese Coleslaw

Serve alongside grilled burgers – Especially beef or lamb with sharp cheese
Pair with spicy BBQ ribs or pulled pork – Creaminess balances heat
Add to sandwiches or wraps – Brings crunch and flavor to every bite
Serve with grilled chicken – Complements smoky, savory flavors
Use as a taco topping – Adds richness and freshness
Pair with steak or beef kabobs – Bold enough to stand with red meat
Serve on a buffet or picnic spread – A unique crowd-pleasing side

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Blue Cheese Coleslaw

Use freshly shredded cabbage – Pre-cut mixes tend to be dry or too thin
Choose high-quality blue cheese – Roquefort or Gorgonzola for the best flavor
Let it chill before serving – At least 30 minutes to meld flavors
Taste and adjust seasoning – Add more vinegar or salt as needed
Avoid over-mixing – Toss gently to keep the slaw from breaking down
Add blue cheese in batches – Helps control the intensity
Serve cold, not room temperature – Keeps texture crisp and flavors fresh

Creative Variations of Ina Garten’s Blue Cheese Coleslaw

Add chopped apples or pears – For a sweet, crisp contrast
Toss in toasted walnuts or pecans – Adds crunch and nutty flavor
Include chopped bacon – For smoky, savory depth
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream – Lightens it up
Mix in red onions or scallions – For an extra bite
Try with crumbled feta – If blue cheese is too strong
Add jalapeños for spice – Pairs well with the creamy base

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Blue Cheese Coleslaw

Refrigerate in an airtight container – Stays fresh for up to 3 days
Avoid freezing – Creamy dressing and cabbage don’t thaw well
Stir before serving – Dressing may settle at the bottom
Keep chilled until ready to serve – Prevents wilting
Store blue cheese separately if making ahead – Add fresh before serving

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Blue Cheese Coleslaw

This dish is served cold – Reheating is not recommended
Let it sit at room temp for 10 minutes if too cold – Brings out flavor
Stir well before serving leftovers – Ensures even consistency
Add a splash of vinegar or mayo if it dries out – Refreshes the texture

Nutrition Value (per serving – based on 8 servings)

Calories: 240 kcal
Protein: 4g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 340mg
Cholesterol: 25mg

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s Blue Cheese Coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually better when made ahead. Prepare the slaw up to 1 day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld, and the cabbage will soften just slightly for a perfect texture.

What type of blue cheese works best in this coleslaw?

Ina often uses a strong, creamy variety like Roquefort or Gorgonzola. If you prefer a milder flavor, Danish blue or Maytag blue cheese are great options too.

Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix instead of fresh cabbage?

You can, but fresh cabbage gives better crunch and holds up longer in the dressing. If you’re short on time, a good-quality mix will still work—just check that it includes both green and red cabbage.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or use a low-fat sour cream to lighten it up. The flavor will be a bit different, but it will still be creamy and delicious.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Blue Cheese Coleslaw is a creamy, crunchy, and bold take on a traditional favorite. With fresh vegetables and a rich dressing that balances sharp blue cheese with tangy vinegar, it’s the perfect side for your next cookout or casual dinner. Try it once, and it might just become your new go-to slaw.