Elevate your appetizer game with these Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Celery sticks. The crispness of fresh celery pairs beautifully with the creamy, savory filling of whipped cream cheese, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar, creating a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a simple snack, this dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. The addition of fresh herbs like parsley and chives adds a burst of freshness, making these stuffed celery sticks a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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4–5 celery stalks, washed and dried
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1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
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¼ cup cooked bacon, chopped
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½ cup cheddar cheese, grated
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
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¼ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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3 dashes hot sauce
Directions:
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Cut the celery stalks in half and set aside.
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Using a food processor or handheld mixer, whip the cream cheese until smooth.
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Add the bacon, cheddar cheese, parsley, chives, salt, pepper, and hot sauce to the cream cheese. Pulse or blend until all ingredients are well combined.
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Using a small spoon, fill each celery “boat” with the cream cheese mixture.
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If desired, sprinkle additional chives and bacon on top for garnish.
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Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 98 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Celery: The Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion
If you are looking for a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing appetizer, Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Celery is the perfect choice. This classic dish combines the crunch of fresh celery with a creamy, savory filling that includes cream cheese, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese, all brought together with a touch of fresh herbs. Whether you’re preparing for a party, a family gathering, or simply need a low-carb snack, these stuffed celery sticks will not disappoint.
The Appeal of Stuffed Celery
One of the main reasons stuffed celery is such a popular appetizer is its simplicity. It requires minimal preparation and no cooking, making it an ideal last-minute dish. The combination of flavors crisp celery, rich and creamy cheese, and smoky bacon creates a perfect balance that is both satisfying and indulgent.
Additionally, this dish is versatile. You can easily adapt the filling to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you want a spicy kick by adding hot sauce or a tangy twist with blue cheese crumbles, stuffed celery is an appetizer that you can customize to your liking.
A Healthy and Low-Carb Option
For those following a low-carb or keto diet, Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Celery is a fantastic snack option. Celery itself is a low-calorie, fiber-rich vegetable that supports digestion and hydration. When paired with healthy fats from cream cheese and protein from bacon, it becomes a satisfying and nutritious snack that keeps hunger at bay without adding unnecessary carbs.
Another health benefit of this dish is its high nutritional value. Celery is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, K, and C, and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. The dairy ingredients provide essential calcium and protein, while bacon adds extra flavor without excessive carbohydrates.
A Great Party Appetizer
When hosting a party or gathering, you need appetizers that are easy to prepare, serve, and enjoy. Stuffed celery bites fit all these requirements. They can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until serving, saving you time and effort during your event.
Moreover, their vibrant green color and creamy filling make for an appealing presentation. Whether you arrange them on a serving tray or add them to a charcuterie board, stuffed celery adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. You can garnish them with extra bacon bits, fresh herbs, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sophistication.
Variations of the Recipe
Although the cream cheese and bacon combination is a classic favorite, there are many ways to switch up this dish to create unique flavors:
- Buffalo Style: Add buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles for a spicy twist.
- Ranch Flavored: Mix in ranch seasoning for a cool, tangy taste.
- Everything Bagel Inspired: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning for added crunch and flavor.
- Italian-Inspired: Use ricotta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean spin.
- Greek Version: Swap cream cheese for feta cheese and add black olives for a Greek-inspired variation.
These creative adaptations ensure that stuffed celery remains exciting and can be tailored to fit any preference.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed celery pairs well with a variety of dishes and beverages. Here are some great serving suggestions:
- With Other Appetizers: Serve alongside deviled eggs, cheese platters, or stuffed mushrooms for a well-rounded appetizer spread.
- As a Side Dish: Enjoy it as a crunchy complement to grilled meats, sandwiches, or salads.
- With Drinks: Pair with light and refreshing drinks like iced tea, sparkling water, or a crisp white wine.
Since it is a finger food, this appetizer is also convenient for outdoor gatherings, picnics, and barbecues.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best aspects of this dish is that it can be prepared in advance. Simply follow these storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store prepared stuffed celery in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Avoid Freezing: Due to the dairy content, freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture of the cheese.
- Freshness Tips: If preparing ahead, keep the filling separate and stuff the celery just before serving to maintain the crunchiness.
By making these small adjustments, you can ensure your stuffed celery remains fresh and delicious.
Conclusion:
Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Celery is an incredibly simple yet flavorful appetizer that suits any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a healthy low-carb snack, a quick party appetizer, or a creative dish to add to your menu, this recipe is an excellent choice. With countless variations and easy storage options, it’s a go-to recipe for any home cook looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
If you haven’t tried this dish yet, now is the perfect time to add it to your recipe collection. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy, and savory delight of stuffed celery at your next gathering!
