I’m obsessed with this crunchy side dish! The tangy flavor and crisp texture make this one of my favorite coleslaw recipes.

During the summer months, it’s literally a part of my weekly meal plan. It’s such a simple way to take any main entree to the next level delicious! 

You can pair this with crispy fried chicken or add it as a side dish for any keto diet recipes. The sweet pickle relish and dill pickle relish add the perfect sweet and savory flavor that I seriously crave all year long! 

One of the best tips for this easy dish is that you can buy everything already chopped and prepped, making it a breeze to put together!

Add this to your list of favorite health food options, it’s so good and yummy! 

Popeyes Coleslaw

I’ll usually grab their red beans and rice for a quick lunch, but something about Popeyes coleslaw on a hot day is just so refreshing.

So, to answer your burning question of does Popeyes have coleslaw? The answer is a resounding yes!!

Problem is, I usually prefer Chick-Fil-A’s chicken sandwich to Popeyes… and I don’t want to hit two different drive-thru lines during the lunch rush!

With easy copycat recipes, I can mix and match my takeout favorites with ease — and feel better about what I’m eating too.

I love how easy it is to make this coleslaw at home. Just chop up some veggies, whisk together a dressing, and toss it all together.

Most of the dressing ingredients are already in my fridge and pantry anyway!

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Green Cabbage – You’ll need a whole head of cabbage for this Popeyes coleslaw recipe.
  
  It should be firm and bright green, and the leaves should be tucked tight — not separating from the stem.
  
  Choose one that feels heavy for its size, and remove any wilted or torn outer leaves before chopping.
  
• Carrots & Onion – For this recipe, you should only need 1 medium carrot and about half a yellow onion.
  
  You can certainly add more, though — the beauty of copycat recipes is that you can make adjustments until it’s just how you like it!
  
• Dressing – Homemade really does taste better, and it’s so easy to make!
  
  Whisk together mayonnaise, pickle relish (I use both dill and sweet), vinegar, mustard, olive oil, and a little sugar until smooth.
  
  Or, add everything to a mason jar and shake until combined.
  
  If you want a healthier version of Popeyes coleslaw dressing, swap the mayo with a low-fat version or plain Greek yogurt instead.

Tips and Tricks to Make Coleslaw Like Popeyes

• Keep all the veggies a similar size.

That’s the secret to a seemingly creamy texture! Slice the cabbage, then chop it into small pieces. Be sure to remove the hard stem as you go.

Since you’re already shredding the carrot, you can shred the onion as well. Do so by hand with a box shredder, or use the shred disc on a food processor.

Just don’t overprocess or the texture will be a bit mushy.

• Season to taste.

A little salt and pepper goes a long way, but give the mixture a taste before seasoning. You’ll be able to add just the right amount!

It’s a good idea to taste again just before serving, as the flavors may change after the slaw soaks up some of the dressing.

• Chill before serving.

Not only does this help develop the flavors — and allow the veggies to soften — but coleslaw just tastes better when it’s cold!

I recommend at least an hour in the fridge once combined, but longer is better.

And if you’re concerned about things getting soggy, feel free to store the veggies and dressing separately and then combine them later. 

Prep Ahead

• Chop cabbage and onion
• Shred carrots
• Mix dressing

Kitchen Tools You Will Need

• Quality Knives and a big solid Cutting Board make prepping a breeze and are well worth the investment.
• Box Grater – Use the large holes to shred the carrots, or the shredding blade on a Food Processor if you have one.
• Mixing Bowls – I like to have a variety of sizes on hand, and this set has them all.

Serving Suggestions

What goes better with this Popeyes coleslaw recipe than fried chicken, mac and cheese (it’s a copycat recipe too!), and plenty of biscuits??

It’s delicious on pulled pork sandwiches too, or alongside cookout favorites like smoked ribs and Nana’s potato salad.

While I don’t have a recipe for their strawberry cheesecake cups, I do have one for mini raspberry cheesecakes that’s easy to customize.

Or, simply make my strawberry cheesecake bars and call it good!

Storing Leftovers

Because of the dressing, you shouldn’t let coleslaw sit out for more than 2 hours at room temperature.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days, and keep it in an airtight container for maximum freshness. (you can also cover with plastic wrap to keep it fresh and delicious) 

I think this copycat Popeyes coleslaw tastes even better the next day, after the flavors have had time to meld. 

Keep in mind that the veggies will soften in the dressing over time, so mix everything together no more than 24 hours before serving.

Popeyes Coleslaw Recipe FAQ

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Easy Copycat Recipes

Popeyes Homestyle Mac and Cheese Copycat Recipe

Red Robin Fries (Copycat Recipe) + Video

Copycat Chick fil A Cobb Salad Recipe at Home

KFC Mashed Potatoes Copycat Recipe

🍔 Copycat Creations Vol 1
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👉 Buy your copy now and start cooking the meals you love!

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Homemade Popeyes Coleslaw (Copycat Recipe!)

Popeyes Coleslaw is tangy, creamy, slightly sweet, and oh so crave-able! It’s ready to serve after an hour of chill time.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

chill time 1 hour hour

Total Time 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Servings 8

Calories 215cal

Author Donna Elick

Equipment

• mixing bowls

Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized head green cabbage finely chopped (about 6 cups)
• 1/3 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup yellow onion finely minced
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper or to taste

Instructions

• In a large-sized mixing bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots and onion. Toss together until well mixed.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, dill relish, sweet relish, yellow mustard, white vinegar, sugar, and olive oil, mix until smooth and creamy.
• Add the dressing to the bowl with the vegetables and mix using a spatula. Mix until all the vegetables are evenly coated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
• Cover and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour before serving. This will allow the flavors to melt together.
• Give the coleslaw a final stir and serve, enjoy!

Notes

Properly stored, this homemade coleslaw can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Use an airtight container to help maintain freshness and prevent any odors from permeating the coleslaw.

This coleslaw actually tastes better when made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld. Making it a day in advance can enhance its taste.

For a healthier alternative, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a low-fat mayonnaise.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 215cal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 395mg | Sugar: 9g | Fiber: 3g | Calcium: 53mg | Iron: 1mg

Originally published July 2024, updated and republished May 2025

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Homemade Popeyes Coleslaw (Copycat Recipe!) appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

Everyone is going to flip out over the flavor of this copycat Popeyes homestyle mac. It’s the ultimate comfort food – and the perfect side dish to make at home!

You can serve yourself a portion size, or fill your plate with nothing but the rich flavors of this golden perfection. 

Copycat recipes like this have the perfect homemade taste and will have you hooked and wanting more after the very first bite! Find out how easy it is to make this creamy mac at home! 

Popeyes Mac and Cheese

Nothing says Southern eatin’ like baked mac and cheese, and Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen is famous for theirs!

I always get their red beans and rice, and I figured since I already have about a million mac and cheese recipes, I didn’t need one more. 

But then I took one bite of that creamy, gooey goodness and I knew I was wrong!

The secret is that little bit of extra cheese baked on top. And when it’s broiled… oh my! Crispy, crunchy, yum yum yum.

I’m no stranger to Southern cooking, thanks to my nana’s recipe book. 

Whether it’s skillet cornbread, a big bowl of potato salad, or a juicy summer peach cobbler, there’s always a way to remember her in the kitchen. 

Some of our favorite copycat mac n’ cheeses you need to try is our 4-Cheese Subway Mac and Cheese & our indulgent Applebee’s 4 Cheese Mac n Cheese!

And we have plenty more restaurant mac and cheeses for you to try, like our Boston Market Mac and our Arby’s Mac and Cheese! Pick you favorite!

Or make a fun mac and cheese for the kids with our unique (and surprisingly addicting) Cheez It Mac and Cheese!

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Pasta – Use classic elbows for mac and cheese like Popeyes, or switch it up with shells, penne, or cavatappi. 
  
  Whichever you choose, cook to al dente according to the package directions — and only use half the box!
  
• Butter & Flour – Together, these make a roux — the foundation of any good cream sauce, especially cheese sauce! All-purpose flour works just fine.
  
• Cheese – Popeyes mac and cheese recipe calls for sharp cheddar, but I find it’s a little one-note. 
  
  Monterey Jack and Velveeta make things a little more interesting and make the sauce nice and creamy too!
  
  You can also swap in your favorites for a different taste. Find inspiration from my best baked macaroni recipes.
  
• Whole Milk – Since the roux and cheese will thicken everything nicely, all you need is regular milk to make the sauce. Let it sit on the counter for a bit to remove the chill.
  
  I prefer whole milk, but whatever you have on hand will do the job! And you can certainly add in some heavy cream to make it extra rich.
  
• Seasonings – All you need are salt, black pepper, and a little paprika for this Popeyes mac and cheese recipe.

Tips and Tricks to Make Mac and Cheese Like Popeyes

• Take your time when making the sauce.

If you try to rush it, it will likely separate or become grainy — patience is key!

Stir frequently while making the roux, keeping the mixture moving so it doesn’t burn. 

Once it darkens a bit and smells nutty, slowly pour in the milk and continue stirring so it doesn’t cause the roux to clump.

Then, mix in the spices and reduce the heat to low. Add a handful of shredded cheese at a time, allowing it to melt completely before adding more.

• Don’t forget the extra cheddar and Monterey Jack on top!

Shred a little extra of each and mix them together. Once you’ve combined the pasta with cheese sauce and poured it into your baking dish, sprinkle this mixture on top.

Not only does it make everything a little extra gooey, but it helps prevent copycat Popeyes mac and cheese from drying out in the oven.

• Create an extra crispy cheese topping.

Once baked, switch your oven to broil and cook Popeyes macaroni and cheese for an additional 2-3 minutes.

The top will get extra browned and bubbly and start to crisp around the edges. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn!

Prep Ahead

• Shred cheese
• Bring milk to room temp
• Grease baking dish
• Preheat oven to 375°F

Kitchen Tools You Will Need

• 9×13 Baking Dish – This set is one of my favorites! It comes with a lid for easy storage and is great for casseroles too.
• Large Pot and Strainer for the pasta 
• Large Saucepan – Choose a heavy-bottomed one so the heat is distributed more evenly and doesn’t scald the cheese sauce.
• Cheese Grater – Fresh cheese makes this recipe even better! Skip the bagged shreds and buy a block to grate yourself.

Serving Suggestions 

This comfort food dish is the perfect side for a weeknight dinner, holiday meal, and everything in between. 

Add a scoop to your plate with pork chops, beef ribs, and of course — fried chicken!

Add some coleslaw or mashed potatoes and gravy, and you’ve got yourself a full takeout spread without ever needing to leave home!

Or, make Popeyes macaroni and cheese a full meal by stirring in some protein before it goes in the oven! 

Shredded chicken, ham, crispy bacon, and your favorite veggies would all be tasty.

Storing and Reheating Popeyes Macaroni and Cheese

Allow leftovers to cool, then transfer to an airtight container or cover the pan tightly. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the pan of Popeyes mac and cheese in the oven at 350°F. 

If you choose the oven, let the baking dish sit on the counter for 20-30 minutes first — this removes the chill so it doesn’t shatter.

Popeyes Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQ

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Easy ac and Cheese Recipes

Broccoli Mac and Cheese (Easy One Pot Recipe) + Video

Best French Onion Mac and Cheese Recipe + Video

Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese

Creamy Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese Recipe + Video

🍔 Copycat Creations Vol 1
Craving your favorite restaurant meals at home? This exclusive ebook has the boldest, most requested copycat recipes — from fast food faves to sit-down classics.

👉 Buy your copy now and start cooking the meals you love!

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Popeyes Homestyle Mac and Cheese Copycat Recipe

Popeyes Mac and Cheese is made with real butter and topped with cheddar cheese… just like this copycat version!

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Method Oven

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 45 minutes minutes

Servings 6 -8

Calories 514cal

Author Donna Elick

Equipment

• 9×13 baking dish
• saucepan
• whisk

Ingredients

• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni 8 ounces
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup shredded)
• 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese (1 cup shredded)
• 8 ounces Velveeta cheese (cut into small cubes)
• Additional 1/2 cup of mixed shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for topping

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
• Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until it turns a light golden brown.
• Slowly add the milk to the roux, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens slightly.
• Add the paprika, black pepper, and salt to the milk mixture, stirring well to combine.
• Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and Velveeta cheese to the saucepan. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
• Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to ensure that every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy cheese sauce.
• Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle the additional 1/2 cup of mixed shredded cheese evenly on top.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and lightly browned.
• Let the mac and cheese stand for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

This recipe uses a mix of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Velveeta for a rich, creamy, and flavorful cheese sauce. You can experiment with different types of cheese based on your preference.

Make sure to cook the pasta al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.

When making the roux, stir constantly to prevent it from burning.

The mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

For an extra crispy top, you can broil the mac and cheese for 2-3 minutes after baking. Watch it closely to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 514cal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 76mg | Sodium: 1109mg | Sugar: 9g | Fiber: 2g | Calcium: 605mg | Iron: 1mg

Originally published May 2024, updated and republished April 2025

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Popeyes Homestyle Mac and Cheese Copycat Recipe appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

Popeyes™ is known for their delicious, homestyle sides. Sometimes, I look forward to them more than my main meal! 

And with my Popeyes red beans and rice recipe, you can save the trip and make it at home. I knew that I could make my own Popeye’s version of beans – and I did just that. 

The creamy red beans are such an easy recipe to make, and I love the smoky flavor. Copycat recipes like this are the best! 

I love that this southern staple recipe tastes just like it came from your favorite restaurant. And the best part?

You can pair it with spicy chicken, baked chicken, or enjoy it just on its own. This is one of those top secret recipes that will be your ace in the hole when it comes to cooking! 

You can even add some hot sauce the next time that you make it to kick up the heat!

I find that this recipe is so much better than eating canned beans, because of all the added seasonings and ingredients in this copycat Popeye’s red beans recipe. 

Not only is it a good option for Southern cooks to pair with other Southern staples, but it’s also a great way to make a side dish that everyone will love.

This beans and rice copycat recipe is a hit every time I make it – and I can’t wait to hear what you think of it! 

Everyone you need to make this copycat Popeye’s recipe is listed on the printable recipe card below.

You’ll see all the important ingredients that are needed to copy that exact flavor and taste. It really does have the same flavors as the real recipe from Popeyes! 

Popeyes Red Beans and Rice

Savory red beans and deliciously sauteed peppers and onions over a bed of fluffy grains – my mouth is watering just thinking about it!

What are Popeyes sides usually served with? Chicken! Check out this fried chicken recipe that is super crispy and tasty. 

Plus, it has a fraction of the calories since it’s made in the air fryer.

Let’s switch over to another fast food favorite for dessert. 

My McDonald’s apple pie copycat recipe captures the ooey gooey flaky goodness of the retro apple pie in all of its glory.

Red Beans and Rice Popeyes Tips and Tricks

• Just like the real thing. For a more authentic Popeyes beans and rice recipe, run the finished dish through the blender or use an immersion blender to get that classic puree consistency.
  
• A little liquid smoke goes a long way! It’s a great way to get a smokey flavor in vegetarian dishes, but don’t overdo it – use ½ teaspoon at first, then add more to taste. 
  
• Time saving tip: If you make rice often, then you may want to invest in a rice cooker. You’ll save space on the stove and get perfect, fluffy grains every time!

Popeyes Rice and Beans Serving Suggestions

The original red beans and rice Popeyes recipe is vegetarian, but either a ham hock or andouille sausage would taste amazing in this dish!

You can add the ham hock with everything else, but simmer the pot for at least 1 hour to really get a nice, deep flavor.

With sausage, it’s best to saute it first. Transfer it to a plate when done, cook the vegetables, then add it back in to simmer with the beans.

Popeyes Rice and Beans FAQs

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Copycat Recipes

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Craving your favorite restaurant meals at home? This exclusive ebook has the boldest, most requested copycat recipes — from fast food faves to sit-down classics.

👉 Buy your copy now and start cooking the meals you love!

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Popeyes Red Beans and Rice Copycat Recipe + Video

Popeyes Red Beans and Rice is a Cajun side with creamy texture and smoky, peppery flavor. This copycat recipe replicates it perfectly!

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Method Stovetop

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 35 minutes minutes

Servings 6 – 8

Calories 334cal

Author Donna Elick

Ingredients

• 2 cups jasmine rice
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 4 cups water
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion diced
• 1 rib of celery diced
• 1 red bell pepper chopped
• 1 green bell pepper chopped
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 4 tablespoons tomato paste
• pinch of red pepper flakes
• 2 teaspoons Tony Chacher’s creole seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke
• 2 30 ounce cans of red beans, rinsed and drained
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• Chopped Italian parsley for garnish

Instructions

• Add rice, salt, and water to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook about 30 minutes or until all liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Set aside.
• In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, add olive oil, onion, celery, and bell peppers. Saute for 5-8 minutes or until vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent.
• Add garlic and saute 1 minute longer.
• Add tomato paste, red pepper, creole seasoning, and liquid smoke and saute 1-2 minutes.
• Add beans, chicken stock, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring mixture to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook, covered, for about 30 minutes total. Remove the lid during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking to reduce overall liquid level. Keep in mind that the beans will thicken as they cool.
• Serve beans with a scoop of rice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Video

Notes

Meat can also be added to this recipe, but Popeye’s does not have meat. A hamhock or Andouille sausage would both be delicious. Saute the sausage before the vegetables, remove from the pot to cook the vegetables, and then add the sausage back in to simmer with the beans. The ham hock can be added along with the beans and chicken stock – simmer the whole pot for at least 1 hour to really get the flavor from the ham hocks integrated into the red beans.

For a more authentic Popeye’s dish, run the finished beans through a blender or use an immersion blender to produce a pureed consistency.

Liquid smoke is a nice alternative for vegetarian versions of this dish. Adjust the amount to taste – a little goes a long way.

Storage: Store in the refrigerator for 4-5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 334cal | Carbohydrates: 62g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 1492mg | Sugar: 6g | Fiber: 3g | Calcium: 45mg | Iron: 2mg

Originally published  February 2022, updated and republished December 2024

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Popeyes Red Beans and Rice Copycat Recipe + Video appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.