This robust bacon and cheese coleslaw transforms the classic side dish into a substantial and satisfying meal. Incorporating pepper jack cheese introduces a delightful hint of spice that pairs perfectly with the sweet and creamy dressing. Enjoy it as a fiber-rich, high-fat, and protein-packed side dish where a small portion makes a substantial impact, or indulge in a generous bowl of this savory coleslaw as a standalone meal.
This recipe serves as a wonderful foundation, but its evolution is entirely up to you. While it features a mayonnaise-based sauce, feel free to experiment with oil-based dressings or even ranch if you're feeling adventurous. Likewise, the vegetable options are flexible—swap purple cabbage for green, slice your own cabbage or opt for pre-cut bags, or try a broccoli and Brussels sprout slaw instead.
Every ingredient in this recipe is customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences. That's the beauty of cooking—you have the power to make it uniquely yours. While allowing the coleslaw to rest before serving can enhance flavor blending, you can enjoy it immediately if you prefer. Experiment, enjoy, and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
The provided nutritional information has been compiled from various online sources and should be regarded as an estimate. Actual nutritional values may vary based on factors such as specific ingredients used, variations in portion sizes, and individual preparation methods. It is advisable to consider these numbers as general guidelines rather than precise measurements. For accurate nutritional information, it is recommended to consult with a registered dietitian or utilize specialized nutritional analysis tools based on the exact ingredients and quantities used in your preparation.
Serving Size: 1/6th of preparation
Calories: 497
Protein: 10 g
Fat: 47 g
Carbohydrates: 13 g
Ingredients
1 pkg. Green Giant Rainbow Slaw
1 pkg. Dole Shredded Red Cabbage
1/2 lb. Kirkland Bacon
3/4 cup. Lucerne Shredded Pepperjack Cheese
1 1/4 cup. Hellmann’s Mayonnaise
2 tbl. Splenda Brown Sugar
3 tbl. Raw Seedless Unsalted Sunflower Seeds
1 tbl. Apple Cider Vinegar
3 tbl. Heavy Cream
Seasonings-
Onion Salt
Garlic Powder
Black Pepper
Dijon Mustard Powder
Instructions- Hearty Bacon and Cheese Coleslaw
Ingredient Preparation
Preparation for this recipe can vary based on your ingredient choices. If you opt for precut or bagged ingredients, the bacon may be the only item requiring preparation. Alternatively, you can use bacon bits and skip the slicing step. In the provided photos, I used half a pound of bacon baked in the oven. Once cooled, slice or chop the bacon into small pieces, adjusting sizes according to personal preference.
For shredded cheese, the easiest route is purchasing pre-shredded. However, for those who prefer to shred their own cheese from blocks, feel free to do so, adding a personal touch to the dish.
Cabbage, carrots, and onions can be prepped by slicing with a knife, mandolin, or food processor, depending on your preference. The texture of the coleslaw can vary based on the method chosen. Slicing with a knife provides a different texture compared to using a food processor, which yields relatively small pieces. Neither method is wrong, and both will result in delicious coleslaw. Choose the approach that aligns with your desired texture and convenience.
Sauce
The sauce is the most intricate part of coleslaw, yet it remains straightforward. We're crafting a mayonnaise-based sauce, thinned with cream, and seasoned with spices. Once the sauce is ready, we'll combine it with the veggies in a bowl—voilà, coleslaw is ready to be enjoyed.
Begin by adding a small portion of mayonnaise to a mixing bowl, along with heavy cream and apple cider vinegar. Incorporate brown sugar and mix thoroughly at this stage to ensure complete dissolution, preventing any sandy texture in the coleslaw. Once the brown sugar is fully dissolved, add the remaining mayonnaise and seasonings, mixing thoroughly.
By now, you should have a bowl of vegetables and a bowl of sauce. Add the sauce to the bowl of vegetables, bacon, and cheese, mixing until everything is thoroughly coated. This is your chance to adjust the consistency according to your preferences. If you prefer a creamier texture, add more mayonnaise and seasonings to achieve the desired ratio of sauce to vegetables. Additionally, you can choose to add sunflower seeds at this stage or sprinkle them on top as a garnish before serving.
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