Crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor—this Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery is the perfect balance of fresh and indulgent. Whether you need a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a light side dish, this recipe delivers every time. Picture crisp celery stalks generously filled with a rich, herby cream cheese mixture, topped with a sprinkle of parmesan for that extra savory bite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it on repeat!

Why You’ll Love Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery

Name: Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8-10 celery stalks, washed and trimmed; 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish); 1/4 cup (40g) sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (optional, for topping)

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re preparing a casual snack, putting together a party platter, or just treating yourself to something delicious, this dish fits the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or a light snack. It’s great for holidays, picnics, and everyday munching.

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients that you likely already have in your fridge and pantry.

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time means you can whip up this dish in minutes—no cooking required!

Customizable: Adjust the seasonings, swap in different cheeses, or add toppings like crispy bacon or chopped nuts for extra texture.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery

Here’s the beauty of this dish—it’s made with just a handful of simple ingredients, but the result is unbelievably tasty. Let’s break it down:

Celery Stalks: The perfect crunchy base to hold the creamy filling. Fresh and crisp for the best texture.

Cream Cheese: Smooth, rich, and creamy—this forms the base of the filling and gives it that irresistible texture.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth that enhances the overall flavor.

Garlic Powder: A little bit goes a long way to boost the taste without overpowering the dish.

Italian Seasoning: A flavorful blend of herbs that gives this recipe its signature Italian twist.

Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but adds a slight kick for those who love a little heat.

Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out all the flavors.

Fresh Parsley: For a pop of freshness and color.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Prep the Celery

Wash and dry the celery stalks, then trim the ends. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, about 3-4 inches long, for easy eating.

Mix the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Stuff the Celery

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each celery piece with the cream cheese mixture. Be generous—you want every bite to be creamy and flavorful!

Add Finishing Touches

Sprinkle extra parmesan cheese, a dash of red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the stuffed celery on a serving plate and dig in! It’s best served fresh, but you can also chill it for a bit if you prefer a firmer texture.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4

Calories per serving: 120

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Serve alongside a charcuterie board with meats, cheeses, and olives for a stunning appetizer spread.
Pair with crackers or toasted baguette slices for extra crunch.
Enjoy as a side dish with grilled chicken or pasta for a refreshing contrast.
Add it to lunchboxes for a fun and healthy snack.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest, most flavorful filling.
Let the cream cheese soften before mixing for a smoother consistency.
Make it ahead by preparing the filling in advance and stuffing the celery just before serving.
Try different cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese for a unique twist.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Stuff the celery just before serving for the best texture.

Can I use a different cheese instead of parmesan? Absolutely! Romano, asiago, or even shredded mozzarella would work well.

How can I make this recipe keto-friendly? It’s already keto-friendly! Just make sure your seasonings and cheese are low-carb.

Can I add protein to this recipe? Yes! Crumbled bacon or chopped ham would be a delicious addition.

Is there a dairy-free alternative? You can use dairy-free cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can I add extra herbs or spices? Of course! Try adding basil, oregano, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for a flavor boost.

Can I make this spicy? Yes! Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.

What’s the best way to serve this at a party? Arrange on a platter and garnish with extra parsley and parmesan for a beautiful presentation.

Can I use whipped cream cheese instead of regular? Yes! It will make the filling even lighter and easier to spread.

Conclusion

Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery is the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory, making it an irresistible snack or appetizer. With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, it’s an easy yet impressive dish to whip up for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy every delicious bite!

Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery

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Author: ikram
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Italian-inspired appetizer combines crisp celery stalks with a rich, creamy filling made from cream cheese, Parmesan, and Italian herbs. It’s a quick, healthy, and flavorful snack or party dish that’s sure to impress!

Instructions

Prepare the Celery: Cut the celery stalks into 3-4 inch pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Stuff the Celery: Use a spoon or piping bag to fill the celery stalks with the cream cheese mixture.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or top with sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and presentation.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.
Serve: Arrange on a platter and serve chilled.