Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will adore, these Vegan Stuffed Shells are just what you need! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites, bringing together the creamy goodness of a plant-based filling with the delightful flavors of marinara sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, and I promise it will have your loved ones coming back for seconds!

The best part? You can whip up this dish in about an hour, making it a fantastic option for those evenings when you want something hearty without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me; once you try these stuffed shells, they’ll become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll be enjoying your delicious meal in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will savor every bite of these stuffed shells!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the filling and stuff the shells ahead of time, then pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of creamy cashew-tofu filling and savory marinara creates irresistible layers of taste.
• Customizable: You can easily tailor the filling with your favorite vegetables or spices!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some wholesome ingredients to make these Vegan Stuffed Shells! You’ll find everything you need right here, and I love how simple they are.

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 out as much liquid as possible

For the Shells

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different fillings or sauces to suit your taste.

• Swap in different greens: Try using kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a unique twist.
• Add some spice: Mix in red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to give the filling an extra kick.
• Incorporate veggies: Dice up bell peppers or mushrooms and add them to the filling for added texture and flavor.
• Change up the sauce: Use pesto or a creamy vegan sauce instead of marinara for a refreshing change.

How to Make Vegan Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that when your stuffed shells are ready, they’ll bake evenly and come out perfectly gooey!

Step 2: Soak the Cashews

Place raw cashews in a heat-safe bowl. Bring 2 cups of water to boil and pour over them. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes. Soaking helps soften the cashews, making it easier to blend into a creamy filling.

Step 3: Cook the Jumbo Shells

Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions but take them off about a minute early so they remain al dente. They will continue cooking in the oven later. Once done, remove them from water and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Blend Your 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 for about 2-3 minutes until smooth. Scrape down sides as needed. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—this step is key for getting that delicious flavor just right.

Step 5: Combine with Spinach

Pour your creamy ricotta mixture into a medium-sized bowl and gently mix in the drained spinach until well combined.

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a casserole dish (about 10×7 inches works great) and pour half of your marinara sauce at the bottom. Using a spoon, fill each shell with the ricotta mixture before placing them into the dish nestled into that lovely sauce. Once all shells are filled, cover with remaining marinara sauce.

Step 7: Add Optional Cheese Topping

If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some dairy-free cheese on top before covering your pan with foil.

Step 8: Bake Until Bubbling

Bake covered for about 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly! If you added cheese, uncover during the last 5-10 minutes so it can melt beautifully.

Step 9: Serve with Fresh Basil

Once out of the oven, serve warm garnished with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy every cheesy bite of these Vegan Stuffed Shells!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Stuffed Shells

Making vegan stuffed shells is a delightful and rewarding experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish even further!

• Soak cashews properly: Soaking the cashews not only softens them but also ensures they blend into a smooth, creamy texture. This step is key to achieving that rich ricotta consistency.

• Don’t overcook the shells: Cooking the shells just shy of fully tender allows them to absorb flavors from the marinara while baking without becoming mushy. This will give you the perfect bite every time!

• Taste as you go: Always taste your ricotta mixture before stuffing the shells. Adjusting the seasoning at this stage ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor.

• Layer your sauce generously: Adding marinara sauce at the bottom and on top keeps the shells moist during baking. This prevents them from drying out and enhances their overall flavor profile.

• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to add other veggies or spices to the ricotta mixture, like sun-dried tomatoes or garlic powder. This opens up a world of flavor possibilities tailored to your taste!

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Presenting your vegan stuffed shells can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to serve this delectable dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a burst of color and an aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top for added spice.
• Balsamic glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze brings a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory marinara.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread provides a crunchy, buttery complement to the tender stuffed shells. You can easily make it vegan by using plant-based butter and garlic.
• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the stuffed shells, adding brightness to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots tossed in olive oil and herbs make for an easy yet flavorful side that complements the Italian-inspired theme.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds color and texture while being an excellent source of vitamins.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Vegan Stuffed Shells will not only taste incredible but also look stunning on your dining table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Stuffed Shells recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, first thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F, cover with foil, and bake for about 30 minutes until heated through.
• If reheating leftovers from the fridge, simply bake at 350 degrees F for about 20 minutes, or until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delicious Vegan Stuffed Shells, you’re not alone!

Can I use other fillings for Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. You can add roasted vegetables, different herbs, or even beans for added protein.

How do I make Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free?

To make Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free, simply use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells and ensure that your marinara sauce is free from gluten-containing ingredients.

What makes these Vegan Stuffed Shells so special?

These Vegan Stuffed Shells are special because they’re filled with a creamy cashew-tofu mixture that mimics traditional ricotta cheese while being entirely plant-based. The combination of flavors will leave you craving more!

Can I prepare these Vegan Stuffed Shells in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake them. This makes dinner planning super easy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Vegan Stuffed Shells recipe as much as I do! It’s not only easy but also brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or just treating yourself, these shells are bound to impress. Happy cooking!