There’s something timeless about a crisp celery stick stuffed with something creamy and delicious. Add a bit of bacon and cheese, and you’ve got yourself a snack that disappears faster than you can say “game night.” These cheesy bacon celery sticks are the perfect blend of crunch, creaminess, and savory flavor—ideal for everything from holiday gatherings and birthday parties to everyday snacking.
They take minutes to prepare, require zero cooking (if your bacon is already prepped), and are guaranteed to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, prepping game day snacks, or packing something savory in a lunchbox, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Drawing from your love for savory, cheesy recipes (like the Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs, and Sourdough Bacon Cheddar Scones) and quick bites (like the Sweet Potato and Black Bean Bowl), these celery sticks are a must-try. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Less than 15 minutes of hands-on time!
- No Bake Required: Ready in 30 minutes with minimal prep, perfect for summer or no-fuss entertaining.
- Keto-Friendly Option: Low carb and full of flavor.
- Kid-Approved: A fun way to get veggies into picky eaters.
- Customizable: Endless variations with cheese, spices, and toppings.
Cheesy Bacon Celery Sticks
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl (for filling)
- Spatula or electric mixer (for mixing)
- Knife and cutting board (for celery and green onions)
- Spoon or piping bag (for filling celery)
- Plate or tray (for chilling and serving)
- Measuring spoons
- Optional: Skillet or oven (if cooking bacon fresh)
Ingredients
- 6 celery stalks cut into 3-inch pieces
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 tbsp green onions chopped
- 1 tsp dried ranch seasoning
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, dried ranch seasoning, and salt until well combined.
- Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into the hollowed centers of the celery pieces.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the top of each filled celery stick.
- Garnish with additional green onions if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to set the filling.
- Serve cold as a snack or appetizer.
What you will need + Easy Substitutions
- 6 celery stalks, cut into 3-inch pieces
Tip: Rinse and pat dry for best texture. - 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Substitute: Use turkey bacon for a lighter option or skip for vegetarian. - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Swap: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even feta for a twist. - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Light Option: Use reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt cream cheese. - 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
Alternate: Chives or finely chopped red onions. - 1 tsp dried ranch seasoning
DIY: Mix garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and parsley. - ¼ tsp salt
Optional: Adjust based on the saltiness of your bacon and cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions & Pro Tips
Step 1: Make the Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, green onions, ranch seasoning, and salt. Mix until smooth and evenly blended.
Pro Tip: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing for easier blending.
Step 2: Fill the Celery
Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into the hollow center of each celery stick. If you’re hosting, use a piping bag for a cleaner, more elegant presentation.
Hosting Tip: Use a star piping tip to create a decorative, ruffled effect.
Step 3: Add the Bacon
Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the top of each filled celery stick.
Flavor Tip: Use extra crispy bacon for more texture and contrast.
Step 4: Garnish & Chill
Add a few extra chopped green onions for garnish. Place the celery sticks on a tray and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to let the filling firm up slightly.
Step 5: Serve
Serve cold as a crunchy, creamy party snack or savory appetizer.
Serving Tip: Lay on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing, or stand them in shot glasses for fun individual servings.
Variations to Try
- Buffalo Celery Sticks: Mix in a splash of buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles.
- Italian Style: Use mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano.
- Veggie Lover’s Version: Add finely chopped bell pepper or shredded carrot into the filling.
- Spicy Jalapeño: Toss in minced jalapeños and use pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
- Greek Twist: Swap cheddar for feta and stir in chopped olives and dill.
Topping Suggestions
- Chopped Chives: Fresh and mild for extra green.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Spicy kick for heat lovers.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: Savory and crunchy for flair.
- Diced Tomatoes: Fresh and juicy for color.
- Shredded Parmesan: Nutty and sharp for depth.
- Crushed Nuts: Almonds or pecans for crunch.
Nutritional Information (Per 1 celery stick– Serving – Makes ~12 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 3 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 35 mg |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Note: Nutritional values vary depending on cheese and bacon types used.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage:
- Store filled celery sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and crunch.
- Tip: Place a paper towel in the container to absorb moisture and keep celery crisp.
- Freezing:
- Freezing is not recommended, as celery becomes soggy and the filling may separate. Prepare fresh for best results.
- Tip: If needed, freeze the cheese filling separately for up to 1 month and thaw in the fridge before using.
- Serving:
- Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator for the best texture. If preparing ahead, assemble up to 4 hours in advance and chill until serving.
- Tip: Add bacon and garnishes just before serving to maintain crispness.
Ingredient Substitutions Recap
- Celery → Cucumber Sticks: Crunchy, fresh alternative.
- Bacon → Turkey Bacon: Leaner protein option.
- Cream Cheese → Greek Yogurt: Lighter, tangier base.
- Cheddar → Pepper Jack: Spicier cheese flavor.
- Ranch Seasoning → Italian Seasoning: Herby substitute.
What to Serve With Cheesy Bacon Celery Sticks
- Charcuterie Boards: These fit right in alongside cured meats, nuts, and crackers.
- Fresh Fruit Skewers: Balance savory with sweet for a well-rounded snack tray.
- Deviled Eggs or Mini Quiches: Perfect for brunch or party tables.
- Sparkling Water: Light and refreshing drink pairings.
FAQs
Are cheddar bacon celery sticks keto-friendly?
Definitely! With no bread and high-fat ingredients, they’re ideal for low-carb diets.
Can I use whipped cream cheese?
Absolutely. It makes mixing easier and gives a lighter texture.
Can I make spicy celery sticks?
Add crushed red pepper, hot sauce, or minced jalapeños to the filling.
How do I keep celery crisp?
Store celery in cold water in the fridge until ready to use, and fill just before chilling. Serve within a few hours.
Whether you’re planning a big party, a casual hangout, or just need something easy and fun to nibble on, these cheesy bacon celery sticks are a surefire winner. They deliver on texture, taste, and convenience—all while being deceptively simple to make.
Perfect for any occasion, they’re a great way to bring people together around something delicious and a little unexpected. Try them once, and they’ll become your go-to for every gathering.
Have a twist you love on this classic? Share your creations in the comments or tag me on Facebook. I love seeing how you make these recipes your own!
