© Original Recipe By The Sizzle Spot ©
🥒🧀🔥 Cheddar Bacon Ranch Stuffed Celery Sticks for a Tasty Snack
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a simple yet flavor-packed appetizer or party snack, look no further than stuffed celery sticks. These crispy, crunchy vegetable sticks are filled with a rich combination of cheddar cheese, savory bacon, and a zesty ranch dressing that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for gatherings or a quick snack, this recipe balances creamy, smoky, and fresh flavors in every bite. I’ve perfected this easy snack, and I promise it’s a crowd-pleaser!
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: Ready in just 15 minutes.
- Healthy crunch: Uses fresh celery for a vitamin boost.
- Flavorful combo: Combines savory bacon and sharp cheddar with cool ranch.
- Versatile: Perfect for parties, game day, or an easy appetizer.
3. Ingredient Notes
Choosing quality ingredients makes all the difference in this recipe. For cheddar cheese, opt for a sharp or aged cheddar for a more pronounced flavor. When selecting bacon, crispy cooked bacon slices add a smoky crunch that elevates the dish. I recommend using Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista for versatile flavor and easy preparation. For ranch dressing, whether homemade or store-bought, look for a creamy, garlicky version for maximum zest. Fresh celery stalks should be firm and crisp—avoid limp or wilted stalks to ensure the snacks stay crunchy.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
Transform your snack prep with the right tools. A Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer makes perfectly crispy bacon in minutes without the mess. The T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set is invaluable for easy cheese melting and bacon crisping. Complete your prep with a Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer for quick, effective cooking, ensuring you get that perfect crunch every time.
5. How to Make Cheddar Bacon Ranch Stuffed Celery Sticks
Preparing the Filling
Begin by cooking your bacon until crispy—this should take about 8-10 minutes in the oven or on a skillet. Once cooled, crumble into small pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and a generous dollop of ranch dressing. Mix until well incorporated. The aroma of melting cheese and crispy bacon will fill your kitchen at this stage!
Assembling the Celery Sticks
Trim the ends of your celery stalks and slice them into manageable lengths—about 3-4 inches. Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each celery stick generously with the cheesy bacon mixture. You want each bite to be bursting with flavor, so press the filling in firmly. The vibrant green of the celery paired with the creamy stuffing looks stunning and appetizing.
Chilling & Serving
For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the stuffed celery sticks for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and keeps the filling firm. Serve on a platter, garnished lightly with chopped herbs or extra bacon bits for presentation. These snacks are as delightful to look at as they are to eat!
6. Expert Tips for Success
- Use fresh celery: Crisp stalks prevent sogginess and improve texture.
- Adjust the ranch: Add extra herbs or garlic to customize your dressing.
- Prepare in advance: Assemble and refrigerate ahead of time for parties.
- For extra flavor: Sprinkle with paprika or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
7. Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian: Swap bacon for sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for smoky flavor.
- Cheese alternatives: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for varied taste.
- Vegan option: Use vegan bacon, dairy-free cheese, and a plant-based ranch dressing.
8. Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed celery in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat quickly in a air fryer or enjoy cold for a refreshing crunch. Remember, the texture of the celery stays best when it hasn’t been stored too long—so enjoy these snacks fresh for the optimal experience.
9. FAQ
Q: Can I prepare these stuffed celery sticks ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble them, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving. Just add a quick chill to keep them crisp.
Q: Can I make a dairy-free version?
A: Absolutely. Substitute dairy-free cheese and ranch dressing, and use smoked paprika instead of bacon if desired.
Q: How do I keep the stuffing from falling out?
A: Use firm celery stalks and pack the filling tightly. Chilling before serving helps set the filling in place.
10. Conclusion
These cheddar bacon ranch stuffed celery sticks are a delightful combination of crunch, savory flavors, and freshness. Easy to prepare, visually appealing, and perfect for any occasion, they’ll quickly become a go-to snack. Give this recipe a try, and impress your guests with this flavorful, low-effort appetizer!
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Cheddar Bacon Ranch Stuffed Celery Sticks for a Tasty Snack
A simple and flavorful stuffed celery snack combining cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and ranch dressing.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 6 large celery stalks
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- ¼ cup ranch dressing
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Wash and cut celery stalks into manageable sticks.
- In a bowl, mix cheddar cheese, bacon crumbles, and ranch dressing until well combined.
- Stuff each celery stick with the cheese mixture.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use turkey bacon or omit bacon entirely.
- Prepare the stuffing ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (if bacon is cooked separately)
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 celery stick
- Calories: 80 Kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg