I’m super excited to share one of my absolute favorite appetizers with you—Outrageously Good Stuffed Celery! Seriously, these little bites of heaven have been the star of many gatherings in my home. I remember the first time I made them; they vanished off the platter faster than I could fill them! Every time I serve them at parties, people can’t resist coming back for more, and I can’t help but brag a little about how simple they are to whip up. This recipe brings together crunchy celery, creamy filling, and a hint of savory goodness that just screams, “party time!”
Whether you need a light snack for a cozy movie night or a show-stopping appetizer for a big gathering, this stuffed celery recipe has got your back. Plus, they’re so easy to customize based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
What’s in Outrageously Good Stuffed Celery?
Celery: The crisp and refreshing base of this dish! I always choose large stalks so there’s plenty of room for that delicious filling.
Cream Cheese: This is the creamy star of the show, providing that rich texture we crave. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing!
Sour Cream: Adds a tangy kick and helps lighten up the filling. I like to use full-fat for an ultra-rich taste, but you can go low-fat if you prefer.
Cooked Bacon: Who doesn’t love bacon? It adds a smoky flavor and crunch that elevates this dish to the next level! I often use leftover bacon from breakfast, but you can also grab pre-cooked bacon for convenience.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: This classic cheese not only tastes amazing but also adds depth to the filling. I opt for sharp cheddar to pack an extra punch!
Green Onions: They give a fresh, vibrant kick to the mix. Plus, they’re super pretty sprinkled on top!
Red Bell Pepper: For a splash of color and sweetness. If I’m feeling wild, I sometimes throw in some yellow or orange bell pepper for fun!
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These seasonings boost the flavor profile without overwhelming the dish. They are my go-to pantry staples that I always keep on hand.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste. You can always adjust to your liking!
Fresh Parsley or Chives: Use these herbs as a garnish for a fresh finish. They really make the dish pop!
Is Outrageously Good Stuffed Celery Good for You?
This appetizer has its perks! Let’s break it down a bit:
Celery: Low in calories and high in water content, this crunchy veggie is a fantastic choice for snacking! It’s perfect if you’re watching your waistline.
Cream Cheese and Sour Cream: While they are tasty, they bring fat and calories. Moderation is key, and you can also find lighter versions if you want that creamy texture without the extra calories.
Bacon: Ah, the guilty pleasure! It’s best enjoyed in moderation due to its sodium and fat content, but it’s also a tasty source of protein.
Overall, this snack is pretty balanced and can fit well into your eating habits, especially if you pair it with plenty of fresh veggies and protein.
How to Make Outrageously Good Stuffed Celery?
1. Start by washing the celery stalks thoroughly. Trim the ends and cut each stalk into 3-4 inch pieces, creating bite-sized portions that are easy to handle.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix until smooth and well-blended. I love using a hand mixer for this step—it makes it so creamy!
3. Stir in the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, red bell pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. Using a butter knife or a small spatula, spread the creamy filling into each celery stick. Don’t be shy; fill those cavities generously!
5. Arrange the stuffed celery on a serving platter. Optionally, sprinkle some extra crumbled bacon or chopped green onions on top for added flavor and presentation.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Trust me, waiting is tough, but it’s worth it!
Snack-Time Inspirations!
– Feel free to spice things up! A dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños can give your stuffing a fun kick. Or swap the cheddar cheese for something like blue cheese for a different twist.
– Want to make it more filling? You could mix in some diced cooked chicken or turkey.
– These stuffed celery sticks are perfect for parties, game days, or just a casual night in. Serve them with your favorite dip, and you’re gold!
I hope you give these Outrageously Good Stuffed Celery a try. I promise they’ll be a hit! And be sure to come back and share your experiences or your own creative spins on this recipe. Happy cooking!
