Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that will warm your heart and fill your belly, these Vegan Stuffed Shells are just what you need! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it’s not only delicious but also super easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping for a family gathering, these shells are sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, they’re packed with wholesome ingredients that make them a guilt-free indulgence!

Imagine creamy, savory filling nestled in tender pasta shells, all smothered in rich marinara sauce. It’s like a big hug from the oven! You can even prepare them ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Trust me—this dish is going to become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to prepare: With simple steps and no fuss, this recipe is perfect for any home cook.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love digging into these hearty pasta shells.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare them in advance and bake when you’re ready for a hot meal.
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of flavors makes this dish feel indulgent without the guilt.
• Versatile options: Customize it with your favorite ingredients for endless variations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Vegan Stuffed Shells use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful dish!

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 Pasta

• 16 jumbo shells (regular or gluten-free)

For the Sauce

• 16oz of your favorite marinara

Optional Toppings

• (optional) fresh basil, roughly chopped
• (optional) dairy-free cheese, shredded

Variations

One of the best things about these Vegan Stuffed Shells is how flexible the recipe is. You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or what flavors you’re craving!

• Add some veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the filling for a little kick!
• Swap the protein: Use chickpeas or lentils instead of tofu for a different texture and taste.
• Change up the sauce: Try a pesto or Alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a fun twist on this classic dish.

How to Make Vegan Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your stuffed shells cook evenly and come out perfectly bubbly.

Step 2: Soak Your Cashews

Place raw cashews in a heat-safe bowl. Bring 2 cups of water to boil and pour it over the cashews. Let them soak for 10-15 minutes. Soaking makes blending easier and helps create that creamy texture we want in our filling.

Step 3: Cook the Shells

Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions but reduce the cooking time by about one minute so they remain al dente. They will finish cooking while baking! Once done, set them aside on a plate to cool slightly.

Step 4: Make the Filling

Drain the 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 for about 2-3 minutes until smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed. Taste it and adjust seasoning if necessary!

Step 5: Combine with Spinach

Transfer your creamy mixture into a medium-sized bowl and gently fold in the thawed spinach until well combined.

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a casserole dish (about 10×7 inches works great). Pour half of your marinara sauce into the bottom of the dish. Take each shell one by one and stuff them with your ricotta mixture before nestling them into the marinara sauce. Pour remaining marinara over stuffed shells.

Step 7: Add Toppings (Optional)

If you like, sprinkle some dairy-free cheese over the top before covering it with foil. This gives an extra layer of flavor!

Step 8: Bake Until Bubbling

Cover your pan with foil and bake for about 30 minutes or until bubbling hot.

Step 9: Allow Cheese to Melt (if added)

If you opted for cheese, remove foil during the last 5-10 minutes so it can melt beautifully.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Once done baking, serve up those delightful Vegan Stuffed Shells hot from the oven! Garnish with fresh basil if desired—and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Stuffed Shells

Making the perfect Vegan Stuffed Shells is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish and impress your family and friends.

• Soak the cashews properly: Soaking the cashews for at least 10-15 minutes makes them creamy and easy to blend, resulting in a smooth ricotta-like texture that enhances the overall flavor.

• Don’t overcook the shells: Cooking the pasta shells just under al dente ensures they hold their shape during baking and allows them to soak up the marinara sauce without becoming mushy.

• Taste as you go: Always sample the ricotta mixture before stuffing the shells. This way, you can adjust the seasoning to fit your preferences, making sure every bite is flavorful.

• Play with textures: For added depth, consider mixing in chopped nuts or seeds into your filling. This adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy stuffing beautifully.

• Make it ahead of time: Prepare your stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together, making them even more delicious!

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Once your Vegan Stuffed Shells are baked to perfection, presentation is key! Here are some fun ways to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of roughly chopped fresh basil not only brightens up the dish but also adds a burst of aromatic flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives your stuffed shells an exciting kick.
• Dairy-free cheese: Melting some dairy-free cheese on top right before serving creates an indulgent finish that everyone will appreciate.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Nothing pairs better with pasta than warm, crispy garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce!
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty stuffed shells.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli add color and nutrition while complementing the flavors of your main dish.
• Steamed asparagus: This elegant side dish provides a satisfying crunch and pairs beautifully with Italian-inspired meals.

There you have it—delicious Vegan Stuffed Shells served with style! Enjoy creating this meal with loved ones and savor every mouthful. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Stuffed Shells recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store it for later, ensuring you always have a delicious plant-based dinner ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, assemble the stuffed shells but do not bake them yet.
• Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• If refrigerated, you can bake straight from the fridge; if frozen, make sure they are fully thawed first.
• Cover with foil while reheating for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. If you added dairy-free cheese, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to allow it to melt.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Stuffed Shells.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of jumbo shells?

Absolutely! While jumbo shells are traditional for this recipe, you can use any large pasta shape that can be stuffed, such as cannelloni or even large rigatoni.

What makes these Vegan Stuffed Shells a healthy option?

These Vegan Stuffed Shells are packed with nutrients from spinach and tofu, providing protein and vitamins while remaining low in saturated fat. It’s a wholesome choice for a comforting dinner!

How do I ensure my Vegan Stuffed Shells don’t stick together?

To prevent sticking, make sure to cook your shells al dente and toss them gently in a little olive oil after draining. Layering with marinara sauce also helps keep them moist.

Can I customize the filling for my Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers, or swap out spinach for kale. The filling is versatile and can be adapted to suit your tastes!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Vegan Stuffed Shells as much as I do! They’re not just easy to prepare but also a heartwarming dish that brings everyone together at the table. Whether it’s for a family dinner or meal prep for busy days ahead, these shells will surely become a favorite. Happy cooking!