Creamy Stuffed Celery Sticks
These creamy stuffed celery sticks are a classic appetizer that’s crisp, refreshing, and packed with rich flavor. They’re easy to prepare ahead of time, making them perfect for parties, potlucks, picnics, or holiday gatherings.
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Chill Time
- 30 minutes (optional, but recommended)
Total Time
- 45 minutes
Servings
- 10–12 (about 24 stuffed celery sticks)
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
For the celery:
- 2 large bunches celery
- Paprika, chopped parsley, or chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the celery.
- Wash the celery thoroughly.
- Trim off the ends and remove any damaged leaves.
- Cut each stalk into 3–4 inch pieces.
- Pat completely dry with paper towels.
- Make the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Mix in the mayonnaise and sour cream until creamy.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, lemon juice, black pepper, and salt.
- Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Fill the celery.
- Spoon the filling into a piping bag (or a zip-top bag with one corner snipped off) for neat filling.
- Pipe the mixture into the groove of each celery stick.
- Alternatively, use a small spoon or butter knife.
- Garnish.
- Sprinkle with paprika, chopped parsley, or chopped chives for extra color and flavor.
- Chill.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to firm up and the flavors to meld.
- Serve.
- Arrange the stuffed celery on a serving platter.
- Serve chilled.
Tips
- For extra crunch, add ¼ cup finely chopped water chestnuts.
- Mix in 2 tablespoons of crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Toasted chopped pecans or walnuts can add a pleasant crunch.
- Prepare up to one day in advance and keep refrigerated until serving.
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy filling may separate after thawing.
Nutrition (Approximate, per stuffed celery stick)
- Calories: 70
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
This appetizer combines the crisp freshness of celery with a smooth, cheesy, herb-filled filling, making it an easy and crowd-pleasing snack for any occasion.