When it comes to snacks that strike the perfect balance of crunchy and creamy, few recipes can compete with Pimento Cheese Stuffed Celery Sticks. This old-fashioned favorite has stood the test of time for good reason: it’s easy to prepare, endlessly versatile, and irresistibly delicious.
Whether you’re planning a party platter, need a quick after-school snack, or want something low-carb and satisfying for your lunchbox, these stuffed celery sticks are the ultimate go-to. They combine the crisp freshness of celery with the rich, tangy, and cheesy goodness of pimento cheese.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this dish — from ingredients, variations, and health benefits to step-by-step instructions, serving tips, and FAQs. By the end, you’ll be ready to whip up this classic snack like a pro!
Why You’ll Love Pimento Cheese Stuffed Celery Sticks
There are plenty of reasons this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your snack rotation:
- 🥒 Quick & Easy: Takes only minutes to prepare, even for beginners.
- 🧀 Balanced Texture: Crisp celery contrasts beautifully with creamy cheese.
- ❤️ Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.
- 🥗 Healthy Choice: Low in carbs, refreshing, and full of flavor.
- 🎉 Party-Ready: Works as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or finger food.
If you’ve ever wanted a snack that feels indulgent but still offers nutritional value, this is it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish is its simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients to create something that looks elegant and tastes amazing.
For Basic Assembly:
- 1 bunch of fresh celery (washed and cut into 3–4 inch sticks)
- 1 cup pimento cheese spread (homemade or store-bought)
- Optional toppings: paprika, chopped chives, or crushed nuts for garnish
For Homemade Pimento Cheese (Optional):
If you’d like to make your own spread from scratch, you’ll need:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2–3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons diced pimentos (drained)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Homemade pimento cheese is creamier, fresher, and allows you to adjust flavors exactly how you like them.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe is straightforward and can be made in under 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Celery: Wash celery thoroughly and cut into sticks about 3–4 inches long. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove moisture.
- Make the Pimento Cheese (if homemade): In a bowl, combine cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Stuff the Celery: Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each celery stick with a generous amount of pimento cheese.
- Add Garnish: Sprinkle with paprika, fresh chives, or crushed nuts for an extra pop of flavor and presentation.
- Chill (Optional): For best results, refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
And just like that, you have a refreshing, protein-packed snack ready to enjoy!
Recipe Card
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Celery Sticks
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | None |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings | 4–6 people (as appetizer) |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Calories (per stick) | ~55 kcal (varies with cheese used) |
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch celery
- 1 cup pimento cheese spread
- Optional toppings: paprika, chives, nuts
Instructions:
- Wash and cut celery into sticks.
- Prepare homemade pimento cheese or use store-bought.
- Fill celery sticks with cheese spread.
- Garnish with toppings of choice.
- Chill briefly before serving.
Tip: Double the recipe if making for a party platter!
Tasty Variations to Try
Part of the fun of this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are some delicious twists:
- 🌶 Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or hot sauce to the cheese spread.
- 🥓 Bacon Lover’s Dream: Top with crispy bacon bits for extra crunch and flavor.
- 🥜 Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed pecans, almonds, or walnuts on top.
- 🌿 Herb Garden Style: Mix fresh dill, basil, or parsley into the cheese spread.
- 🧄 Garlic Lover’s Version: Add roasted garlic for a deep, savory flavor.
- 🥕 Veggie Boost: Mix in shredded carrots or bell peppers for color and nutrients.
Health Benefits of Pimento Cheese Stuffed Celery Sticks
This snack may taste indulgent, but it actually packs in some nutritional benefits:
- 🥒 Celery: Low in calories, hydrating, and rich in fiber, potassium, and antioxidants.
- 🧀 Cheese: Provides protein, calcium, and healthy fats for sustained energy.
- 🌶 Pimentos: Add a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants.
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, this snack is an excellent choice since both celery and pimento cheese are naturally low in carbohydrates.
Best Occasions to Serve These
This recipe shines in just about any setting. Consider making it for:
- 🎉 Party Appetizers: Quick to prepare and easy to grab-and-go.
- 🥗 Lunchbox Snacks: Great for kids and adults alike.
- 🏈 Game Day Treats: A lighter alternative to chips and dip.
- 🌞 Picnics: Travel-friendly and refreshing outdoors.
- 🕒 Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: Satisfies cravings without being heavy.
Tips for Success
- Choose thick celery stalks that hold more filling.
- Pat celery dry before stuffing to prevent slipping.
- Use a piping bag for a cleaner, party-ready look.
- Chill before serving for best flavor and crunch.
- Serve on a platter with fresh herbs for a professional touch.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. For freshness, cover with a damp paper towel before sealing.
- Freezer: Not recommended — celery loses its crunch when frozen.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prep celery and cheese separately. Assemble just before serving for the crispest texture.
Fun Serving Ideas
- Arrange on a charcuterie board alongside crackers, cured meats, and fruits.
- Create a rainbow veggie tray with celery, carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers.
- Sprinkle with festive toppings like sesame seeds, smoked paprika, or parsley.
- Serve with dips like ranch, hummus, or Greek yogurt sauce for variety.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pimento cheese?
Yes! Store-bought versions work well. Look for one made with real cheese and simple ingredients.
2. How far ahead can I prepare them?
You can make them up to 24 hours in advance. Keep refrigerated in an airtight container.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use a dairy-free cheese spread or vegan cashew-based cheese.
4. What’s the best celery to use?
Thick, crisp stalks are best. Avoid stringy celery as it can be harder to bite into.
5. Can I freeze stuffed celery sticks?
Freezing isn’t recommended since celery becomes mushy after thawing.
6. What else can I stuff celery with?
Try cream cheese, hummus, tuna salad, peanut butter, or guacamole.
7. How do I make them spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the spread.
8. Are they keto-friendly?
Yes, they are naturally low-carb and fit perfectly into keto meal plans.
9. Can I serve them to kids?
Yes, but you can tone down strong flavors (like Dijon mustard) for younger palates.
10. What pairs well with these celery sticks?
They go well with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water at parties.
Conclusion
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Celery Sticks are the ultimate snack — crunchy, creamy, flavorful, and endlessly versatile. They’re perfect for parties, picnics, lunchboxes, or anytime you need a quick bite that’s both comforting and nutritious.
With minimal prep time, endless variations, and a crowd-pleasing flavor, these stuffed celery sticks deserve a spot in your recipe collection. Whether you go classic with store-bought pimento cheese or take the extra step to make it homemade, the result will always be a delicious, refreshing snack that everyone loves.
