These pimento cheese stuffed celery sticks are crunchy, creamy, and packed with Southern-style flavor. I love how the crisp celery balances the richness of the sharp cheddar and pimento cheese spread, making this snack both refreshing and satisfying. It’s easy to prep, low-carb, and perfect for entertaining or everyday snacking.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it comes together fast with no cooking required and delivers big flavor in each bite. The creamy pimento cheese is tangy, sharp, and a little peppery, while the celery gives that perfect crunch. It’s the kind of snack I can whip up in minutes for a picnic, party, or even a quick lunch side. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Celery stalks, trimmed and cut into 3–4 inch pieces
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Cream cheese, softened
- Mayonnaise
- Diced pimentos, drained
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: dash of hot sauce or cayenne for heat
Directions
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I start by combining the shredded cheddar, cream cheese, and mayo in a mixing bowl until smooth.
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I stir in the diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce if I want a little kick.
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I use a spoon or piping bag to fill each celery stick with a generous amount of the pimento cheese mixture.
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I arrange them on a platter and serve right away or chill them for a bit to let the flavors meld.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12–16 stuffed celery sticks, depending on the size of the stalks. It takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy snack or appetizer.
Variations
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I sometimes add finely chopped green onions or fresh parsley for extra flavor.
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For a smoky twist, I use smoked paprika or smoked cheddar in the mix.
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I’ve swapped celery for mini bell pepper halves or cucumber slices for a different base.
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Adding chopped chopped pickles gives it more texture and zing.
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If I want a lighter version, I use Greek yogurt in place of mayo.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re best served cold and don’t need reheating. If I’m prepping ahead for a party, I keep the celery and cheese mixture separate and assemble just before serving to keep the celery crisp.
FAQs
Can I make pimento cheese ahead of time?
Yes, I usually make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors get even better after a few hours.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is my go-to for bold flavor, but I sometimes use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.
Do I need to peel the celery?
Not necessarily, but if the strings bother me, I use a vegetable peeler to remove them from the back of each stalk.
Can I use store-bought pimento cheese?
Yes, I do that when I’m short on time—just choose a good quality brand with simple ingredients.
Are these good for keto or low-carb diets?
Absolutely. Celery is low in carbs and high in fiber, and the cheese spread fits right into a keto or low-carb lifestyle.
Conclusion
Pimento cheese stuffed celery sticks are a classic, feel-good snack that I can throw together anytime. They’re crisp, creamy, flavorful, and just the right blend of healthy and indulgent. Whether I’m making them for a party tray or keeping a batch in the fridge for snacking, they always disappear fast.
Print
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Celery Sticks
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 stuffed celery sticks
- Category: Snack, Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Pimento Cheese Stuffed Celery Sticks are a quick, creamy, and crunchy snack made with a tangy homemade pimento cheese spread. Perfect for parties, picnics, or low-carb snacking, they come together in minutes and deliver bold Southern flavor in every bite. Naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly, they’re a healthy appetizer that’s always a hit.
Ingredients
- 4–5 celery stalks, trimmed and cut into 3–4 inch pieces
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons diced pimentos, drained
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for heat
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cheddar, cream cheese, and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in diced pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce if using.
- Spoon or pipe the pimento cheese mixture into each celery piece.
- Arrange on a serving platter and serve immediately or chill for 15–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Add chopped green onions, fresh parsley, or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Swap celery for mini bell pepper halves or cucumber slices.
- Stir in chopped pickles for a flavorful twist.
- Greek yogurt can be used in place of mayo for a lighter version.
- Make the pimento cheese up to 3 days in advance for quick assembly later.
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