Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Celery
Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Celery is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack. Crisp celery sticks are generously filled with a creamy, cheesy, bacon-loaded mixture, then topped with Everything Bagel seasoning for a savory twist.
Whether you’re prepping for a party or looking for a quick after-school snack, these stuffed celery bites deliver on taste and convenience.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Tips
- Prep Ahead: Save time by making the cream cheese mixture in advance and storing it in the refrigerator. Chop the celery ahead of time and refrigerate in an airtight container for easy assembly later.
- Serving Size: Depending on how large you cut the celery sticks, this recipe can yield 8-12 pieces. Adjust the size to fit your needs.
- Presentation: For a more polished look, use a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped to stuff the celery.
- For extra crunch, lightly toast the bacon bits before adding them to the filling.
- Soften the cream cheese before mixing to make it easier to blend with the other ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4 stalks fresh celery
Crisp and refreshing, celery serves as the perfect vessel for the creamy filling. Opt for firm, bright green stalks for the best results. - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
The base of the filling, cream cheese adds a rich, creamy texture. Let it soften at room temperature for easy mixing. - 2 tbsp cheddar cheese, shredded
Sharp cheddar cheese enhances the flavor of the filling. You can substitute with mild cheddar, Colby-Jack, or pepper Jack for a spicier kick. - 1 tbsp bacon bits
Smoky and savory, bacon bits add a satisfying crunch. Use pre-packaged bacon bits or cook and crumble fresh bacon for extra flavor. - 1 tsp Everything Bagel seasoning
This blend of sesame seeds, garlic, onion, and poppy seeds adds a flavorful finishing touch. It’s widely available in stores or can be made at home.
Substitutions
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free cream cheese and vegan cheese to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Bacon Alternative: Swap bacon bits for turkey bacon or plant-based bacon crumbles.
- Seasoning Swap: If you don’t have Everything Bagel seasoning, use a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, and sesame seeds as a substitute.
Instructions
- Prepare the Celery
Wash the celery stalks thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean towel. Trim off the ends, then cut each stalk into 2-3 pieces, depending on your preferred serving size. - Make the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and Everything Bagel seasoning. Stir well until the mixture is evenly combined and creamy. - Stuff the Celery
Using a spoon or a small knife, fill each celery piece with the cream cheese mixture. Ensure the filling is evenly distributed for a balanced bite.
- Optional Toppings
For added flair, sprinkle additional cheddar cheese, bacon bits, or Everything Bagel seasoning over the stuffed celery. - Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the stuffed celery on a platter and serve immediately. If not serving right away, store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Storage
Store any leftover stuffed celery in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the celery crisp, stuff them just before serving if possible.
FAQs
Yes! Try stuffing mini bell peppers or cucumber slices with the same filling for variety.
For a spicy kick, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture, or use a spicy cheddar cheese.
These stuffed celery sticks pair well with other appetizers like deviled eggs, veggie platters, or crackers for a full snack spread.
Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Celery is an easy, delicious way to combine fresh veggies with indulgent flavors. Perfect for entertaining or snacking, these bites are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Celery
Ingredients
- 4 stalks fresh celery
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 tbsp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 tbsp bacon bits
- 1 tsp everything bagel seasoning
Instructions
- Wash the celery, then chop off the end.
- Cut into 2-3 pieces.
- Add the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and everything bagel seasoning to a bowl, and stir well to mix it all together.
- Using a spoon or knife, stuff the mixture into the celery.
- Top with additional cheese, bacon bits, and everything bagel seasoning, if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition values are estimates, for exact values consult a nutritionist.
