Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Celery

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This quick and easy appetizer is perfect for gatherings, after-school snacks, or even a casual bite at home. Fresh celery sticks are filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture and topped with crispy bacon and Everything Bagel seasoning for a delightful combination of crunch and savory flavor. Plus, it’s keto-friendly!

Table of Contents

Chef’s Tips

Choose fresh celery with firm, crisp stalks for the best texture and flavor. Avoid limp or overly large celery as it can be stringy.
Soften the cream cheese before mixing to make it easier to blend with the other ingredients.
Use a piping bag for a neat presentation when filling the celery sticks.
For extra crunch, lightly toast the bacon bits before adding them to the filling.
Customize the filling with additional flavors, like garlic powder, chives, or a dash of hot sauce.

Ingredients

4 stalks fresh celery – The base of this recipe, providing a refreshing crunch.
4 oz cream cheese, softened – Adds creamy richness to the filling.
2 tbsp cheddar cheese, shredded – A touch of sharpness for extra flavor.
1 tbsp bacon bits – Provides a salty, smoky crunch to the snack.
1 tsp Everything Bagel seasoning – A flavorful blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, and onion that ties it all together.

Substitutions

Replace cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
Swap bacon bits with turkey bacon or crispy prosciutto for a leaner option.
Use low-fat cream cheese to make this snack lighter.
Try cucumbers, bell peppers, or even zucchini sticks instead of celery for variety.

Instructions

Wash the celery thoroughly and trim off the ends.
Cut each stalk into 2-3 pieces, depending on your preferred serving size.
In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and Everything Bagel seasoning. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Using a spoon or knife, spread the filling into the hollow of each celery stick.

mixing the filling for bacon cheese celery sticks

Optionally, top each piece with additional cheese, bacon bits, or a sprinkle of Everything Bagel seasoning for extra flair.
Serve immediately, or chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes for a slightly firmer texture.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the filling and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble the celery sticks just before serving to keep them crisp.

What if I don’t have Everything Bagel seasoning?

You can create a similar seasoning by mixing sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and a pinch of salt.

Can I use cooked fresh bacon instead of bacon bits?

Absolutely! Dice or crumble freshly cooked bacon for even more flavor and texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the Everything Bagel seasoning for any added ingredients that might contain gluten.

What’s a good pairing for this snack?

These stuffed celery sticks pair well with fresh veggies, keto-friendly crackers, or even a bowl of tomato soup for a light meal.

Enjoy these Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Celery sticks as a quick and satisfying snack or appetizer that everyone will love!