Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Sticks

Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Sticks are a simple, refreshing, and low-carb appetizer made with crisp celery and a creamy, flavorful filling. Perfect for parties, holiday trays, healthy snacks, or meal prep, these crunchy celery sticks are packed with texture and flavor while requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or simply looking for a quick snack, this recipe is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients For the Celery

• 1 large bunch celery
• 16 celery stalks, trimmed and cleaned

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp salt

Optional Add-Ins

• 2 tbsp shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped bacon
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp chopped walnuts or pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Celery

• Wash the celery stalks thoroughly under cold water.
• Trim the ends and remove any tough strings if necessary.
• Cut each stalk into 3 to 4-inch pieces.
• Pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Filling

• Place the softened cream cheese into a mixing bowl.
• Add green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
• Mix until smooth and creamy.
• If using optional ingredients such as bacon, cheese, or herbs, fold them into the mixture.

Step 3: Fill the Celery

• Using a spoon, butter knife, or piping bag, fill the center groove of each celery stick with the cream cheese mixture.
• Smooth the top for an even appearance.

Step 4: Arrange for Serving

• Place the filled celery sticks on a serving platter or baking dish.
• Arrange neatly in rows.

Step 5: Chill

• Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before serving.
• Chilling helps the filling firm up and enhances the flavor.

Step 6: Garnish

• Sprinkle with chopped parsley, bacon bits, or chopped nuts if desired.
• Serve cold and enjoy.

Tips & Notes

• Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Use flavored cream cheese for additional variety.
• Fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley add extra freshness.
• For a spicy version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
• These can be prepared several hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Q&A

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes. They can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: Absolutely. Low-fat or light cream cheese works well.
Q: What other fillings can I use?
A: Tuna salad, chicken salad, pimento cheese, or herbed goat cheese are great alternatives.
Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Servings

• Serves: 6–8 people

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 180mg

Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Sticks are one of the easiest appetizers you can make while still delivering great flavor and crunch. The crisp celery provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy filling, making them ideal for entertaining, snacking, or adding to a vegetable tray. With endless filling variations and minimal prep time, this classic recipe is a healthy, versatile favorite you’ll return to again and again.