Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly crunchy—these stuffed celery sticks are a quick and tasty snack or appetizer.
Servings & Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 12 stuffed celery sticks
- Dietary Badges: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, Low-Carb
Ingredients
- Philadelphia cream cheese, softened (8 oz)
- Diced red onion (3 tbsp)
- Ranch dip mix (2 tbsp) — or homemade ranch seasoning
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup, from block)
- Celery stalks
- Everything bagel seasoning, for sprinkling
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, diced red onion, ranch dip mix, and shredded cheddar cheese. Use a hand mixer to blend until smooth and well incorporated.
- Wash and cut celery stalks into smaller sticks, about 3–4 inches long.
- Spread the cheese mixture generously into the celery sticks’ groove using a butter knife or small spatula.
- Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the stuffed celery for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days before serving.
Additional Notes
- Use softened cream cheese for easy mixing and a creamy texture.
- If you don’t have ranch dip mix, you can make your own with dried herbs and spices (recipe below).
- This snack is naturally gluten-free and perfect for low-carb diets.
Introduction
Stuffed celery sticks are a classic appetizer that’s quick to make yet packed with flavor and texture. Combining creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements, they’re a perfect snack for busy days, parties, or whenever you need a fast bite. I love making this simple recipe when I want something fresh and satisfying without spending time cooking. Plus, the everything bagel seasoning adds a trendy twist that keeps everyone coming back for more!
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Mix cream cheese, red onion, ranch dip mix, and shredded cheddar cheese with a hand mixer until creamy. This ensures all the flavors blend well and the filling is easy to spread.
Tip: If the mixture feels too stiff, soften the cream cheese a bit more or add a teaspoon of milk.
Step 2: Cut the Celery
Wash the celery thoroughly, then slice each stalk into 3-4 inch pieces—perfect for easy snacking and serving.
Step 3: Stuff the Celery
Use a butter knife or small spatula to fill each celery stick with the cheese mixture. Make sure to press the filling firmly so it doesn’t fall out.
Step 4: Add Seasoning
Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning evenly over each stuffed stick. This seasoning adds a savory, herby crunch that takes the flavor to the next level.
Ingredient Details and Substitution Tips
- Philadelphia Cream Cheese: Using full-fat cream cheese gives a richer, creamier texture. Light versions work but might be less creamy.
- Ranch Dip Mix: If you don’t have store-bought ranch mix, make your own by mixing dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded from a block melts and blends better than pre-shredded. You can substitute with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: This seasoning blend can be bought pre-made or mixed at home with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion flakes, garlic flakes, and salt. If unavailable, sprinkle a bit of garlic powder and sesame seeds instead.
- Celery: Choose crisp, fresh celery with firm stalks for the best crunch.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Flavor Variations: Add 2 tbsp of finely chopped cooked bacon to the cream cheese mixture for a smoky twist. Or mix in 1 tsp of smoked paprika for a subtle heat.
- Dietary Variations: For a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and cheddar with vegan cheese.
- Serving: Serve as a refreshing appetizer alongside fresh veggies or your favorite dip. These also pair wonderfully with chilled white wine or light beer for casual get-togethers.
Storage and Make-Ahead Information
- Storage: Store stuffed celery sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The celery may soften slightly over time but will remain tasty.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the cheese filling up to 2 days in advance and keep refrigerated. Stuff celery just before serving for optimal crunch.
- Reheating: Best served cold or at room temperature; no reheating needed.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 110 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Carbs: 2 g | Fat: 9 g | Fiber: 1 g
Gluten-Free | Low-Carb | Vegetarian
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use cream cheese with herbs or flavored varieties?
A: Yes! Herb-flavored cream cheese can add extra flavor but skip the ranch dip mix or adjust seasoning accordingly.
Q: What if I don’t have everything bagel seasoning?
A: No worries! Use a sprinkle of garlic powder, sesame seeds, and onion flakes as a simple substitute.
Q: Can I prepare this recipe vegan?
A: Absolutely! Use vegan cream cheese and cheddar-style vegan cheese. You can find dairy-free ranch seasoning or make your own herb blend.
Q: How long will the celery stay crunchy?
A: Celery is best fresh. Stuff and serve immediately for max crunch. Refrigerate leftovers up to 2 days but expect some softening.
Optional Personal Story
I stumbled upon this recipe on a lazy weekend when I wanted a snack without turning on the stove. The combination of tangy cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and the crunch of celery instantly became a staple for quick bites at home. The everything bagel seasoning twist was inspired by my love for bagel flavors and has since made these celery sticks a crowd favorite at parties!
Reader Interaction
Have you tried these stuffed celery sticks with your own twist? Drop a comment below with your favorite additions or substitutions—I’d love to hear how you make this recipe your own! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your results on social media.
