Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that brings the family together, you’ve come to the right place! These Vegan Stuffed Shells are not only easy to prepare, but they also pack a punch of flavor that everyone will love. I remember the first time I made them—it was a busy weeknight, and I wanted something hearty yet quick. These stuffed shells quickly became a favorite in our household.

Perfect for family gatherings or just a cozy dinner at home, these shells are filled with wholesome goodness. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making your life a little easier when things get hectic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors and textures, these Vegan Stuffed Shells appeal to both kids and adults.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare them in advance! Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Nutrient-Rich: With ingredients like spinach and tofu, this meal is not just tasty but also full of plant-based nutrition.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand! Gather these staples to create a filling and satisfying meal.

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

• 16 jumbo shells (regular or gluten-free)
• 16oz of your favorite marinara

Optional Garnishes

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

Variations

This recipe is flexible and can be tailored to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Extra Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the spinach for added flavor and texture.
• Swap the Protein: Try using lentils instead of tofu for a different protein source.
• Spice It Up: Add some red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the ricotta mixture for an extra kick!
• Change the Sauce: Experiment with different marinara sauces or even try a creamy vegan alfredo sauce.

How to Make Vegan Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prepare the Cashews

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. While that’s heating up, place the raw cashews in a heat-safe bowl. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil and pour it over the cashews. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes. This softening step is key; it helps them blend smoothly into a creamy filling later on!

Step 2: Cook the Shells

Next, cook your jumbo shells according to package instructions—but here’s a little tip: cook them for about 1 minute less than recommended. This ensures they are very al dente because they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Once done, set them aside on a plate to cool just a bit.

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Filling

Drain those cashews and toss them into a high-speed blender along with firm tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and oat milk. Blend everything on high for about 2-3 minutes until it’s super smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed. Taste it! Adjust any seasonings if necessary—this is your chance to make it perfect.

Step 4: Combine with Spinach

Pour that delicious ricotta mixture into a medium-sized bowl and gently fold in your drained spinach. This adds flavor and nutrients while keeping everything nice and green!

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a casserole dish (I recommend around 10×7 inches). Spread half of your marinara sauce at the bottom of the dish. Now comes the fun part! One by one, take spoonfuls of that ricotta filling and stuff it into each shell before placing them snugly into the sauce. After all shells are filled, cover them with remaining marinara sauce.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

If you want to add dairy-free cheese on top now’s your chance! Cover your pan with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until you see that sauce bubbling away. If you added cheese, remove the foil for those last few minutes so everything gets beautifully melty.

Step 7: Serve It Up

Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving. If you like, sprinkle some fresh basil on top for that extra pop of flavor!

Enjoy these delightful Vegan Stuffed Shells with your loved ones—they’re sure to become a regular on your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Stuffed Shells

Making Vegan Stuffed Shells is a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Soak the cashews properly: Soaking the cashews not only softens them for blending but also creates a creamier texture in your ricotta mixture. This step is essential for achieving that luscious mouthfeel.

• Don’t overcook the shells: Cooking the pasta shells al dente ensures they hold their shape and don’t become mushy during baking. Remember, they’ll continue to cook in the oven!

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so it’s always a great idea to taste your ricotta mixture before stuffing the shells. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or even some herbs to customize it to your liking.

• Mix in fresh herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or oregano into your ricotta mixture can enhance the flavor profile of your stuffed shells. Fresh ingredients bring brightness and complexity to the dish.

• Make it ahead of time: If you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal, prepare the stuffed shells in advance! Assemble them in the casserole dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add an extra few minutes to baking time if baking from cold.

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Serving Vegan Stuffed Shells can turn this cozy meal into a delightful presentation. Here are some creative ideas!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that complements the marinara sauce beautifully.
• Dairy-free parmesan: Grating some dairy-free parmesan on top before serving can give your dish an extra layer of flavor and an appealing look.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, offering crushed red pepper flakes on the side allows guests to spice up their plates as they wish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Homemade garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that delicious marinara sauce left on your plate. Simply spread vegan butter mixed with minced garlic on crusty bread and bake until golden.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a balsamic vinaigrette balances out the richness of the stuffed shells while adding freshness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make for colorful sides that are both nutritious and flavorful. Toss them with olive oil and herbs before roasting for an extra kick.
• Steamed Broccoli: Quick and easy steamed broccoli is not only nutritious but also adds vibrant color alongside your stuffed shells. Drizzle with lemon juice for an added zing.

Enjoy crafting and serving this delightful meal! Your family will be asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Stuffed Shells are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you’re concerned about sogginess, keep the sauce separate until ready to reheat.

Freezing

• Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Instead, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• To freeze individual portions, place stuffed shells in a freezer-safe container with marinara sauce.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• For frozen shells, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or bake directly from frozen (it will take about 40-45 minutes).
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Vegan Stuffed Shells!

Can I use different types of pasta for Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes that suit your taste. Just make sure they are large enough to hold the filling.

How do I make Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free?

To make these Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free, simply choose gluten-free jumbo shells. The filling remains plant-based and delicious!

Can I prepare Vegan Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes, these shells can be prepared ahead of time! Just follow the make-ahead instructions above for easy storage options.

What can I serve with Vegan Stuffed Shells?

These stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. Enjoy them with your favorite vegetable sides for a complete meal!

How do Vegan Stuffed Shells taste?

Vegan Stuffed Shells are creamy, savory, and satisfying! The cashew-tofu ricotta combined with marinara creates a delightful flavor that everyone will love.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Vegan Stuffed Shells as much as I do! They’re a comforting and delicious option that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your fillings and toppings—make this recipe your own! Happy cooking!