If you’re searching for a snack that’s as vibrant and fresh as it is full of flavor, this Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Recipe is your new go-to! It combines crisp, refreshing celery with a luscious, tangy cream cheese filling that is bursting with Italian seasoning and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just craving something light yet satisfying, this dish delivers on both taste and simplicity. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together, making it perfect for busy days when you want something impressive but fuss-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Recipe calls for a handful of everyday ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Each element adds its own charm, from crunch and creaminess to bold flavor and subtle richness, so your snack is balanced and delightful every time.
- Celery stalks: The crisp foundation offering refreshing crunch and a mild, slightly peppery flavor.
- Cream cheese: Soft and creamy, bringing rich texture and a smooth base for the stuffing.
- Italian dressing mix: Packed with herbs and spices, this infuses the filling with savory Italian zest.
- Mayonnaise: Adds extra creaminess and a mellow tang that ties all flavors together.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts slightly into the mixture, giving a delicate cheesy stretch and mild flavor.
How to Make Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Celery
Start by rinsing your celery stalks thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit, then dry them well. Cut each stalk into three manageable pieces—this size is just right for snacking and stuffing. Keeping the celery fresh and crisp is key since it’s the crunchy vessel for your creamy filling.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Italian dressing mix, mayonnaise, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Use a spoon or spatula to blend everything until it’s smooth and evenly combined. This mixture is where all the flavor magic happens, bringing zesty herbal notes and cheesy richness to every bite.
Step 3: Stuff the Celery
Now for the fun part—filling each celery segment with your luscious cream cheese stuffing. Use a small spoon or a piping bag if you want extra precision to nestle the filling neatly inside the celery’s natural grooves. The contrast of the crunchy celery and creamy filling is what makes this recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Garnish and Chill
Finish off by sprinkling dried parsley and a pinch of paprika on top, giving your Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Recipe a pop of color and a hint of extra flavor. Refrigerate the prepared celery until you’re ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
How to Serve Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing these stuffed celery pieces is not just about looks; it’s also about enhancing flavor and aroma. Fresh parsley, chopped chives, or a sprinkling of paprika all add layers of freshness and subtle spice. A drizzle of olive oil or a few crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate the snack for guests who like a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
Looking to create a fuller spread? This Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Recipe pairs beautifully with light appetizers like marinated olives, crunchy breadsticks, or a simple antipasto platter. It also complements hearty sandwiches or pasta dishes, adding a crisp, flavorful bite on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is part of the fun! Arrange the stuffed celery on a bright, colorful plate or a wooden board lined with lettuce leaves for an appealing contrast. You can even spear each piece with decorative toothpicks, making them perfect for parties. Another idea is to fill small individual cups with a bit of pesto or salsa and nestle the celery sticks upright for an elegant, interactive snack display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because these disappear quickly!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The celery will stay crisp for up to 2 days, while the cream cheese filling maintains its delicious texture and flavor—perfect if you want to enjoy a quick snack later.
Freezing
Freezing this Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Recipe is not recommended. Celery tends to lose its crunch and becomes watery after thawing, so it’s best to enjoy this recipe fresh. The cream cheese mixture also changes texture when frozen and thawed, so stick to making just what you can enjoy within a couple of days.
Reheating
This recipe is best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not advised. If you want your cream cheese filling softer, just let the celery sit out for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors open up without compromising the celery’s natural crispness.
FAQs
Can I use flavored cream cheese instead of plain?
Absolutely! Using a flavored cream cheese like garlic and herb or sun-dried tomato can add an exciting twist to the Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Recipe. Just keep in mind that it might alter the balance of flavors, so you might want to adjust the Italian dressing mix accordingly.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
This recipe can fit into a keto diet quite well since celery, cream cheese, mozzarella, and mayonnaise are all low in carbs. Just watch the Italian dressing mix ingredients for any added sugars if strict carb limits are essential for you.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you prefer to skip mayonnaise, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute. It will still give you that creamy texture but with a tangier profile and fewer calories, making the filling a bit lighter while keeping it delicious.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
From rinsing the celery to stuffing and garnishing, this Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Recipe takes about 10 minutes. It’s perfect for when you need a quick yet satisfying appetizer or snack that doesn’t require standing in the kitchen for hours.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, try replacing cream cheese and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives such as vegan cream cheese and shredded vegan cheese. Use a vegan mayonnaise and ensure your Italian dressing mix is free from animal products. The crisp celery will still provide a perfect canvas for these flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about the simplicity and freshness in this Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Recipe. It’s a timeless snack that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to brighten up any occasion. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite go-to appetizer that everyone will rave about!
Print
Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Italian Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery recipe is a quick and easy appetizer perfect for parties or snacks. Crisp celery stalks are filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, Italian dressing mix, mayonnaise, and shredded mozzarella cheese, delivering a flavorful, crunchy bite that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 6 or 7 stalks of celery, rinsed and dried
- 1 (8-oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 (0.7-oz) package Italian dressing mix
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the celery: Cut each celery stalk into three equal pieces. Set these aside on a clean surface for stuffing.
- Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Italian dressing mix, mayonnaise, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated creating a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Stuff the celery: Using a spoon or a small spatula, carefully fill the hollow of each celery piece with the cream cheese mixture, making sure to fill each piece generously for maximum flavor.
- Garnish and chill: Optionally, sprinkle dried parsley and a pinch of paprika over the stuffed celery for added color and flavor. Refrigerate the stuffed celery for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and to serve chilled.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure easy mixing.
- For a lighter option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Try adding chopped olives or pepperoni bits into the filling for added texture and flavor.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 2 days for best freshness.
- This appetizer is best served chilled.
