Primanti Brothers Coleslaw Copycat Recipe

Primanti Brothers sandwiches are famous for being piled high with meat, fries, tomatoes, and a generous handful of fresh coleslaw all inside the bread. That coleslaw is not just a side. It is a key part of the sandwich. It adds crunch, freshness, and a slightly sweet, creamy balance to the salty fries and savory meat.

This is not a heavy, overly dressed coleslaw. It is light, crisp, slightly sweet, and very finely shredded, so it sits perfectly inside a sandwich without falling apart. The texture is what makes it special. The cabbage is thin, the dressing is smooth, and the flavor is mild but memorable.

You can recreate this iconic coleslaw at home with a few simple ingredients and the right technique.

Ingredients You’ll Need

6 cups very finely shredded green cabbage
½ cup very finely shredded carrots
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons white vinegar
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Prep Time, Chill Time, and Servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6

The Secret to Authentic Texture

The most important part of this recipe is how thin the cabbage is sliced. It should be almost thread-like, not chunky. This allows the slaw to sit neatly in sandwiches and absorb the dressing properly.

Use:

A sharp knife
A mandoline slicer
Or the fine-shredded blade of a food processor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Shred the Cabbage and Carrots

Finely shred the cabbage until it looks thin and light.

Shred the carrots just as finely so they blend into the slaw instead of standing out in thick strips.

Place both in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

Mayonnaise
White vinegar
Sugar
Salt
Black pepper

Whisk until completely smooth and slightly creamy.

Step 3: Combine the Slaw

Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots.

Toss very well until every strand is lightly coated. The slaw should not look heavy or be drowning in dressing.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

This resting time softens the cabbage slightly and allows the flavors to blend.

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Tips for the Best Primanti-Style Coleslaw

Slice the cabbage extremely thin
Do not overdress the slaw
Chill before using
Use fresh cabbage for the best crunch
Taste and adjust sugar slightly if you prefer sweeter slaw

What Makes This Coleslaw Different

Unlike many coleslaws, this one:

Has no onion
Has no mustard
Is not overly tangy
Is lightly creamy, not heavy
Is designed for sandwiches, not bowls

It is simple, balanced, and refreshing.

How Primanti Brothers Uses This Slaw

This coleslaw is placed directly into sandwiches along with fries and meat. The slaw cuts through the heaviness and adds crunch and freshness in every bite.

You can use this slaw the same way at home.

Ways to Serve This Coleslaw

Inside sandwiches and burgers
On top of BBQ chicken sandwiches
With grilled beef or chicken
As a side for fries
With wraps and pita sandwiches

Flavor Variations You Can Try

Sweeter Version

Add an extra teaspoon of sugar.

Tangier Version

Add a splash more vinegar.

Extra Crunch

Add a handful of shredded red cabbage.

Lighter Version

Replace half the mayo with plain yogurt.

How to Store Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Stir before serving as some liquid may settle at the bottom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bagged coleslaw mix?

Yes, but try to chop it finer for authentic texture.

Why is my slaw watery?

Cabbage releases water over time. Drain lightly and stir before serving.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.

Can I freeze coleslaw?

No. The texture becomes soggy after thawing.

Final Thoughts

Primanti Brothers coleslaw is simple but essential. Its light, creamy dressing, fine texture, and mild sweetness make it perfect for stacking inside sandwiches or serving alongside hearty meals.

Once you make this at home, you will understand why this humble slaw is one of the most important parts of their famous sandwiches.