The Famous Slawburger

The Famous Slawburger: A Southern Classic Worth Savoring

If you’re a burger enthusiast, you’ve likely tried countless variations—cheeseburgers, bacon burgers, even peanut butter burgers. But have you ever had a slawburger? This Southern classic, loaded with tangy, crunchy coleslaw, is a must-try for food lovers looking for something a little different. I recently tried a Slawburger at Ken’s Famous Slawburgers in Fayetteville, TN. Ken’s is a local burger joint with friendly service and great food. There is usually a line but it goes fast. I tried the single burger with slaw and fries and it was fantastic.

What is a Slawburger?

A slawburger is exactly what it sounds like—a burger topped with coleslaw. But don’t let the simplicity fool you. The magic of a slawburger lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy slaw pairs beautifully with a juicy, grilled beef patty, all nestled in a soft bun. Some versions even add a little kick with mustard, pickles, or a splash of vinegar.

The History Behind the Slawburger

The slawburger has deep roots in the American South, particularly in Fayetteville, Tennessee. This small town takes its slawburgers so seriously that it hosts the Slawburger Festival every year, celebrating this beloved local creation with food, music, and good old-fashioned Southern hospitality. The tradition dates back to the early 20th century when diners and burger joints started topping their patties with homemade coleslaw, creating a unique regional delicacy.

Why You Need to Try One

• A Unique Flavor Experience – The combination of cool, creamy coleslaw with a hot, juicy burger is unlike any other.
• Southern Comfort in Every Bite – If you love Southern cuisine, a slawburger embodies that comforting, homemade goodness.
• Endless Variations – Whether you like a classic mayo-based slaw, a vinegar-based slaw, or even a spicy slaw, there’s a version for every palate.

How to Make a Classic Slawburger at Home

Want to try making your own slawburger? Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
• 1 cup coleslaw (homemade or store-bought)
• 4 burger buns
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: mustard, pickles, or a splash of hot sauce

Instructions:

1. Form the Patties – Divide the ground beef into four equal portions, shape into patties, and season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Burgers – Grill or pan-fry over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side (or until cooked to your desired doneness).
3. Toast the Buns – Lightly toast the burger buns for extra texture and flavor.
4. Assemble the Burgers – Place the cooked patty on the bottom bun, top with a generous scoop of coleslaw, and add any extra toppings you like.
5. Enjoy!

Whether you make one at home or find a classic slawburger at a local diner, this Southern specialty is a must-try. Have you ever had a slawburger? Let me know your favorite way to enjoy it in the comments!