Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw

Crispy and creamy, Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw is a delightful twist on the classic dish. This versatile slaw is perfect for cookouts, picnics, or as a bold topping on your favorite burger or hot dog. The blend of tangy blue cheese with the savory crunch of turkey bacon elevates this coleslaw to a whole new level. Enjoy it as a side or a main attraction at any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The unique mix of blue cheese and turkey bacon creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side, topping, or even in wraps; it fits various occasions seamlessly.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its delicious flavor profile, this coleslaw is sure to impress friends and family alike.
• Healthy Twist: Using turkey bacon makes it a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• Medium bowl
• Frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl: Perfect for mixing the shredded veggies without spilling them.
• Medium bowl: Ideal for combining all the dressing ingredients thoroughly.
• Frying pan: Used to cook the turkey bacon until it’s crispy.

Ingredients

Vegetables

• 3-4 slices Turkey Bacon, (diced)
• 1 small green cabbage, (cored and thinly shredded)
• 1/4 small red cabbage, (shredded)
• 1 carrot, (grated)

Dressing

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Toppings

• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 2 green onions, (sliced)

How to Make Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Cook diced turkey bacon in a frying pan over medium heat until crisp. Drain the bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies

In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and grated carrot. Toss them together gently to mix.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Cabbage with Dressing

Add about half of the dressing to the cabbage mixture. Stir well to coat all the vegetables evenly. Continue adding dressing until you reach your desired level of creaminess; you may not need all of it.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Onions

Gently fold in crumbled blue cheese and sliced green onions into the slaw. Mix carefully to keep some texture.

Step 6: Top with Turkey Bacon

Finally, sprinkle the crispy turkey bacon on top of your coleslaw before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw!

How to Serve Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw

Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw is incredibly versatile and can elevate various dishes. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just enjoying a casual meal, this coleslaw adds a delightful crunch and rich flavor.

As a Side Dish

• Serve it chilled alongside grilled meats for a refreshing complement.
• Pair with BBQ ribs to balance the smoky flavors.

On Burgers

• Top your burger with this coleslaw for an extra layer of taste and texture.
• Use it as a topping for turkey burgers to enhance the overall flavor profile.

On Hot Dogs

• Add Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw to hot dogs for a gourmet twist.
• Mix in some spicy mustard for added zing.

In Tacos

• Use as a crunchy filling in tacos, especially with grilled chicken or fish.
• Combine with avocado slices for a creamy touch.

As a Snack

• Enjoy it on its own as a healthy snack option.
• Serve with pita chips or crackers for dipping.

How to Perfect Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw

To achieve the best Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw, consider these tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh cabbage and vegetables to ensure crispness.
• Adjust Dressing Consistency – If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of milk or buttermilk for creaminess.
• Let It Chill – Allow the coleslaw to sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving; this melds the flavors beautifully.
• Experiment with Seasonings – Feel free to add herbs like dill or parsley for an extra pop of flavor.
• Use Quality Blue Cheese – A good quality blue cheese will elevate your coleslaw’s taste significantly.
• Keep Bacon Crispy – Add the Turkey Bacon right before serving to maintain its crunchiness.

Best Side Dishes for Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw

Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob – The sweetness of corn complements the tangy coleslaw perfectly.
2. Baked Beans – A hearty side that balances well with the creamy texture of the slaw.
3. Potato Salad – A classic cookout staple that offers contrasting flavors and textures.
4. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac enhances the richness of blue cheese in the slaw.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies provide a nutritious contrast to the rich flavors of coleslaw.
6. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any extra dressing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Bacon Crisping: Not cooking the Turkey Bacon until it’s crispy can leave your coleslaw lacking in texture. Make sure to cook it well for that perfect crunch.

• Overdressing the Cabbage: Adding too much dressing can make the slaw soggy. Start with half, mix, and add more as needed to keep it fresh.

• Neglecting Flavor Balance: Forgetting essential seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder can dull the flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning for a vibrant taste.

• Using Old Vegetables: Using wilted or old cabbage and carrots will compromise freshness. Always select crisp, fresh produce for the best results.

• Not Chilling Before Serving: Serving coleslaw immediately can miss out on flavor development. Allow it to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in cabbage.
• If necessary, freeze only the components separately (bacon, dressing) and mix fresh before serving.

Reheating Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Spread coleslaw on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This method may alter texture.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw?

Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw is a creamy slaw that combines crunchy veggies with crispy turkey bacon and rich blue cheese for added flavor.

How can I customize this coleslaw recipe?

You can customize by adding ingredients like apples, nuts, or different cheeses based on your preference. Experiment with flavors!

Can I make Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes! It’s great when made ahead of time. Just remember to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Is this coleslaw gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients used are gluten-free, making this coleslaw suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

What can I serve with Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw?

This delicious coleslaw pairs perfectly with grilled meats, burgers, or as a topping on hot dogs at picnics and cookouts.

Final Thoughts

Blue Cheese Turkey Bacon Coleslaw is not only tasty but also versatile. It serves as a delightful side dish or topping that enhances any meal. Feel free to get creative with your additions or substitutions to match your tastes!