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–+ servings
Creamy Cabbage
This simple cabbage dish is a classic creamy slaw-style salad built around eight cups of shredded cabbage and a tangy sweet dressing. Rooted in American home cooking, it reflects the style of holiday and potluck tables where crisp cabbage salads accompany ham, turkey, or barbecue. The combination of sour cream and mayonnaise creates a smooth, lightly tangy base, while sugar softens the sharp bite of cabbage and vinegar brightens the flavor. It’s beloved for its crunch, versatility, and make-ahead convenience, pairing well with hearty mains or sandwiches. The recipe’s handwritten notes show practical kitchen math and real-world adjustments, highlighting an approachable salad that is easy to scale and customize for gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 110 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 cups shredded cabbage
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 ½ tbsp balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1-2 tbsp water (optional, to thin dressing)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare cabbage

  • Shred cabbage finely
  • Measure 8 cups loosely packed cabbage

Step 2: Make creamy dressing

  • In a bowl, combine sour cream and mayonnaise
  • Whisk in sugar and salt until dissolved
  • Add balsamic or apple cider vinegar and mix until smooth
  • Stir in water as needed to reach desired consistency

Step 3: Combine and toss

  • Add dressing to shredded cabbage
  • Toss until cabbage is evenly coated

Step 4: Chill and serve

  • Refrigerate 30–60 minutes for flavors to blend
  • Stir before serving

Tips

  • Use green and purple cabbage together for color
  • Substitute apple cider vinegar for balsamic to keep flavor lighter
  • Reduce sugar to 1/4 cup for a less sweet slaw
  • Add shredded carrot or apple for extra crunch and sweetness
  • Mix in celery seed or poppy seed for classic deli slaw flavor
  • Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangier dressing
  • Add black pepper for subtle heat
  • Make ahead 1 day for softer texture and blended flavor
  • Rinse and pat cabbage dry for maximum crispness
  • Serve with barbecue, fried chicken, or sandwiches

Nutrition

Calories: 110kcalCarbohydrates: 13gProtein: 1.1gFat: 6.4gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.4gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 170mgFiber: 2.2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 0.8mg
Keyword comfort food, creamy cabbage slaw, homemade dressing, no-cook salad, potluck favorite, summer side dish, vintage recipe
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