Save These Garlic Parmesan Celery Sticks transform humble celery into a crave-worthy snack or appetizer. Coated in melted butter, garlic, and real Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden crispness, this recipe brings out the best in each ingredient for a healthier option with plenty of flavor. It is perfect for game day spreads, family movie nights, or when you need a satisfying bite that is ready in minutes.
I whipped these up on a lazy Sunday when all I had was celery and cheese left in the fridge. They were gone in minutes and now I keep celery on my grocery list just for this dish.
Ingredients
- Celery stalks: fresh and firm give the snack its signature crunch Look for stalks that are pale green with crisp leaves and no bend
- Parmesan cheese: freshly grated for best taste and melts evenly Choose a wedge and grate yourself if possible
- Unsalted butter: coats each stick and adds richness Use good quality butter for a clean flavor
- Garlic: two cloves finely minced for a bold punch Try to use fresh and not jarred garlic for real zing
- Dried Italian herbs: add complexity and extra savory notes Go for a blend with oregano and basil or leave out if you want it simple
- Black pepper: freshly cracked makes the whole dish pop
- Sea salt: a little brings out both the celery and cheese flavors Try flaky salt for a nicer finish
- Fresh parsley: brightens up everything at the end and looks pretty Use flat leaf and snip just before garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Turn your oven on to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius and let it heat thoroughly This temperature ensures the cheese will brown quickly while the celery stays crisp
- Combine the Seasonings:
- Use a large mixing bowl to mix the melted butter minced garlic Italian herbs black pepper and sea salt Stir until the garlic is evenly mixed into the butter for full distribution of flavor
- Coat the Celery:
- Add trimmed and cut celery sticks to your prepared bowl Toss them around with a spatula until each piece is coated in the garlicky buttery blend
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan all over the celery sticks Toss again until the cheese clings to every side Do not be shy with the cheese as this makes the crust
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
- Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup Arrange the coated celery sticks in a single layer making sure they do not overlap for even baking
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking sheet in the hot oven Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the celery is just fork tender and the cheese is turning golden Leave in a few minutes more for deeper crunch but watch for burning
- Garnish and Serve:
- Take out of the oven and lift the celery onto a serving platter Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for color Serve while still hot and the cheese is at its most flavorful
Save Whenever I make these I always add extra garlic because it reminds me of my grandma She would scatter garlic on everything and laugh at how it makes a simple dish feel so special. Parmesan is the heart of this recipe and if you use the real stuff you will truly taste the difference.
Storage Tips
Cool celery sticks completely before storing to keep them crisp. Place in a single layer in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 375 until warm and the cheese crisps back up. I do not recommend microwaving which can make the celery soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of Parmesan Pecorino Romano adds a sharper tang and still melts beautifully. For a dairy free spin use melted olive oil instead of butter and a trusted plant based parmesan alternative. If garlic is too strong for you try roasted garlic which is milder and sweet.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these warm celery sticks with your favorite creamy dip like ranch or a simple marinara for a more hearty snack. They are great beside grilled chicken soup or can be tossed into an antipasto platter for easy entertaining. I always sneak a few onto my lunch salad for a salty cheesy crunch.
Cultural and Historical Context
Celery has been a staple in American kitchens for generations and was often used in lunchboxes as a crunchy healthy vessel. Parmesan cheese hails from Italy and brings centuries of culinary tradition to this updated take on a homestyle snack. This recipe marries classic Italian flavor with the nostalgia of after school snacking.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring try using the tender inner celery stalks for a lighter bite Fall is the right time to experiment with roasted squash or carrots in place of celery for the same cheesy treatment For summer gatherings swap parsley for chives and serve these outside at your next picnic
Success Stories
These celery sticks have saved more than one last minute party in my house. Once when neighbors stopped by unexpectedly I whipped these up in under half an hour and there was not a stick left. It has become an easy recipe I teach to friends who want to serve vegetables in a way that actually gets people excited to eat them.
Freezer Meal Conversion
This is not the best recipe for freezing because baked celery can lose its crunch and become watery. For prep ahead purposes though you can cut and coat the celery in advance store in the fridge and simply bake when needed for hot gooey results on demand.
Save Serve hot and enjoy immediately for the best cheesy crunch. These will disappear fast at any gathering!
Recipe Guide
- → How can I make celery sticks extra crunchy?
Broil the baked celery sticks for 1–2 minutes until the cheese bubbles for added crispiness.
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or experiment with other hard cheeses you enjoy.
- → What dips go well with these celery sticks?
Marinara, ranch, or a yogurt-based dip all pair well and add extra flavor to this snack.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those avoiding gluten.
- → Can I prepare this snack ahead of time?
You can coat and arrange celery sticks ahead, then bake just before serving for best results.
- → What are the main allergens to be aware of?
Milk from Parmesan and butter, and celery, which may be an allergen for some individuals.