Stuffed Celery
Ingredients
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- 10 stalks celery stalks – ends trimmed, cut into 2–3 inch pieces
- 8 ounces cream cheese – softened at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup pimento-stuffed green olives – finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crisp cooked bacon – finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onion – finely sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt – or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground
- paprika – sprinkled on top for serving
Instructions
1. Place the softened cream cheese in a medium mixing bowl and mash it with a spoon or spatula until smooth.
2. Stir in the mayonnaise until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
3. Add the chopped pimento-stuffed green olives, chopped bacon, sliced green onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper to the bowl.
4. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed and the filling is thick and spreadable.
5. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning with a little more salt or pepper if needed.
6. Arrange the trimmed and cut celery sticks on a work surface with the hollow side facing up.
7. Using a small spoon or a piping bag, generously fill the hollow of each celery piece with the cream cheese mixture, pressing it in so it adheres.
8. Smooth the tops of the filled celery pieces with the back of the spoon so the filling is level and neat.
9. Sprinkle a light pinch of paprika over the tops of the stuffed celery for color and a mild smoky flavor.
10. Transfer the stuffed celery to a serving platter, cover loosely, and chill for at least 15 minutes to firm up before serving.
11. Serve the stuffed celery cold as an appetizer or party snack.
Stuffed celery is a classic American party appetizer that pairs crisp, refreshing celery stalks with a rich, savory filling. The cool crunch of the celery contrasts with a creamy, tangy mixture, often featuring cream cheese or cheese spreads, olives, nuts, or cured meats. It is usually served chilled on a platter, making it an easy finger food that feels both nostalgic and satisfying.
Historically, stuffed celery rose to prominence in the United States in the early to mid-20th century, when celery itself was considered a stylish table vegetable and cream cheese–based canapés were fashionable. Vintage cookbooks and holiday menus from the 1940s through the 1970s frequently include versions filled with cheese spreads, pimentos, and sometimes chopped nuts or bacon. Over time, the dish has become a staple of potlucks, holiday gatherings, and retro appetizer spreads, retaining its popularity because of its simplicity, versatility, and make-ahead convenience.