Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying plant-based meal, you’ve come to the right place! Vegan Stuffed Shells are truly one of my favorite recipes. They’re comforting, easy to whip up, and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I love how they remind me of cozy Italian dinners, but with a vegan twist that everyone can enjoy. Plus, they’re packed with wholesome ingredients, making them a guilt-free indulgence!

These stuffed shells are not just a hit with vegans; they’re loved by everyone at the table! Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a hearty meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for those hectic days when you still want something homemade.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour these shells! They’re fun to eat and full of flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Great for meal prep!
• Deliciously Versatile: With endless filling options, you can customize these shells to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need for your Vegan Stuffed Shells:

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup raw cashews
• 1/2 block firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Califia Farms Oat Milk
• 9oz package frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry)

For the Shells and Sauce

• 16 jumbo shells (regular or gluten-free)
• 16oz of your favorite marinara sauce
• (optional) fresh basil, roughly chopped
• (optional) dairy-free cheese, shredded

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or ingredients based on what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the greens: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Add some spice: Mix in red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for an extra kick.
• Change up the cheese: Try adding vegan cream cheese or ricotta for an even creamier texture.
• Make it a bake: Top with breadcrumbs before baking for added crunch!

How to Make Vegan Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prepare the Cashews

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Place your raw cashews in a heat-safe bowl and cover them with boiling water. Let them soak for 10-15 minutes. Soaking helps soften the nuts so they blend easily into a creamy filling.

Step 2: Cook the Shells

While the cashews soak, cook your jumbo shells according to package instructions but remove them about one minute early. This ensures they remain al dente since they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Once cooked, set them aside on a plate while they cool slightly.

Step 3: Blend the Filling

Drain your soaked cashews and add them to a high-speed blender along with tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and oat milk. Blend on high until smooth—about 2-3 minutes—scraping down the sides as needed. Taste your mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Combine with Spinach

Transfer your creamy mixture into a medium-sized bowl and gently fold in the thawed spinach until well combined. This mixture is going to be the star of your stuffed shells!

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a casserole dish (about 10×7 inches works beautifully). Pour half of your marinara sauce into the bottom of the dish. Now it’s time to fill those shells! Take spoonfuls of your ricotta mixture and stuff each shell generously before placing them in the marinara sauce.

Step 6: Bake It Up!

Once all your shells are nestled in their marinara bed, pour over any remaining sauce. If you’d like some cheesy goodness on top, sprinkle on dairy-free cheese now. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for about 30 minutes until bubbly.

Step 7: Enjoy!

If you’ve used cheese on top, remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking so that it can melt beautifully. Serve hot from the oven with fresh basil sprinkled on top if desired!

There you have it—delicious Vegan Stuffed Shells that are sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Stuffed Shells

Creating the perfect vegan stuffed shells is all about the details, and with a few handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your family and friends!

• Soak the cashews properly: Soaking them in hot water allows for a creamier texture when blending, making your filling smooth and delicious.

• Don’t overcook the shells: Cooking them al dente prevents them from falling apart when you stuff them. They’ll finish cooking perfectly in the oven, so trust the process!

• Taste as you go: Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning of your ricotta mixture. A little extra salt or lemon juice can make a big difference!

• Layer it up: Adding marinara sauce to the bottom of the dish before placing the shells helps prevent sticking and ensures every bite is flavorful.

• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to mix in other vegetables or herbs into your ricotta mixture, such as sun-dried tomatoes or fresh parsley, to customize it to your taste.

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Presenting your vegan stuffed shells just right can turn a simple dish into a stunning centerpiece for any meal. Here are some suggestions to help elevate your serving:

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of roughly chopped fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
• Dairy-free Parmesan: Grating some dairy-free Parmesan on top just before serving gives an added layer of flavor and richness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread (using vegan butter) is perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce while adding that beloved crunch.
• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette brings balance to the meal and adds a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus bring vibrant colors and earthy flavors that complement the pasta beautifully.
• Vegan Caesar Salad: Tossing together romaine lettuce with a creamy vegan dressing offers a delightful tanginess that pairs wonderfully with rich stuffed shells.

Enjoy crafting this comforting dish that not only satisfies hunger but also brings friends and family together at the dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Stuffed Shells recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy delicious plant-based goodness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They can be stored for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the stuffed shells but do not bake them.
• Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label them!

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, simply cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• If frozen, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then follow the same reheating instructions as above.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Vegan Stuffed Shells that might help you out!

Can I make Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free jumbo shells instead of regular pasta shells. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged.

What can I use instead of cashews in Vegan Stuffed Shells?

If you have a nut allergy or prefer not to use cashews, you can substitute with sunflower seeds. Soak them in hot water for similar results!

How do I enhance the flavor of my Vegan Stuffed Shells?

You can add a variety of herbs and spices to your cheese mixture. Try adding garlic powder, fresh parsley, or Italian seasoning for an extra burst of flavor!

Can I prepare Vegan Stuffed Shells in advance?

Yes! You can assemble them a day ahead and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It’s a great time-saver!

How long do Vegan Stuffed Shells last?

When stored properly, they will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. They also freeze well if you want to save some for later!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Vegan Stuffed Shells recipe brings joy and comfort to your dinner table! It’s hearty, satisfying, and so easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. Enjoy making it and sharing it with your loved ones. Happy cooking!