Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious, then these Vegan Stuffed Shells are just what you need! This recipe has been a family favorite for years. It combines creamy, flavorful filling with tender shells and zesty marinara sauce. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just trying to whip up something quick on a busy weeknight, this dish is perfect for any occasion. The best part? Everyone will love it, even if they don’t follow a plant-based diet!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only about an hour from start to finish, you can have a delightful meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these cheesy, stuffed delights, making it a win-win for dinner!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously Healthy: Packed with wholesome ingredients like spinach and cashews, this meal brings nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, wholesome, and easy to find at your local grocery store. Gather these together for a delightful cooking experience!

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 Pasta

• 16 jumbo shells (regular or gluten-free)

For the Sauce

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Some Protein: Incorporate some cooked lentils or chickpeas into the filling for an extra protein boost.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or Italian herbs to the filling for more flavor.
• Try Different Greens: Swap out spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a twist on the greens.
• Change Your Sauce: Experiment with pesto instead of marinara for a different taste profile.

How to Make Vegan Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that everything bakes evenly and gets bubbly when it’s time!

Step 2: Soak the Cashews

Place your raw cashews in a heat-safe bowl. Bring 2 cups of water to boil and pour it over the cashews. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes. Soaking makes them softer and easier to blend into that creamy filling we all love.

Step 3: Cook the Jumbo Shells

Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions but reduce the cooking time by about one minute so they are very al dente. They will continue cooking in the oven later. Once done, remove them carefully and set them aside on a plate to cool slightly.

Step 4: Blend the Filling

Drain the soaked cashews and add them to your high-speed blender along with firm tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, kosher salt, black pepper, and oat milk. Blend on HIGH for 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy. Remember to scrape down the sides as needed! Taste it and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Mix in Spinach

Pour that delicious ricotta mixture into a medium-sized bowl and gently fold in your thawed spinach. This adds color and nutrition while keeping everything super tasty!

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a casserole dish (about 10×7 inches works great) and pour half of your marinara sauce into the bottom. Now comes the fun part—using a spoon, fill each shell with your ricotta mixture and nestle them right into that bed of sauce. Cover each shell with more marinara sauce afterward.

Step 7: Add Toppings

If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some dairy-free cheese over the top! It adds an extra layer of creaminess that’s hard to resist.

Step 8: Bake Away

Cover your pan with foil and pop it in the oven for about 30 minutes or until bubbling hot!

Step 9: Let Cheese Melt (Optional)

If you’ve added cheese on top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking so that it can melt beautifully.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, serve your Vegan Stuffed Shells warm topped with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Stuffed Shells

Making vegan stuffed shells is a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll create a dish that’s not just delicious but also memorable for everyone at the table!

• Soak your cashews: Soaking cashews helps them blend into a creamy consistency, which is essential for achieving a smooth ricotta-like texture. This step makes your filling rich and decadent.

• Don’t overcook the shells: Cooking the shells al dente ensures they hold their shape while baking. This prevents them from becoming mushy and falling apart when you fill them with your tasty mixture.

• Taste as you go: After blending the ricotta mixture, always give it a taste! Adjust the seasoning to your preference—everyone’s palate is different, and this is your chance to make it just right.

• Use fresh spinach if possible: While frozen spinach works well, using fresh spinach can add an extra layer of flavor and texture. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more nutrients into your meal!

• Experiment with marinara sauces: There are so many varieties of marinara sauce available—try different brands or even homemade versions! Each sauce can bring its unique flair to the dish, making every batch special.

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Presenting your vegan stuffed shells beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this comforting dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a burst of color and a fragrant aroma that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the dish and give it an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is a classic accompaniment that pairs beautifully with stuffed shells. The buttery garlic flavor complements the marinara sauce perfectly.

• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes and a balsamic vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffed shells. It’s a simple way to add more veggies to your plate!

• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Steamed vegetables are not only quick but also nutritious! They add vibrant colors to your meal and balance out the hearty stuffed shells.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables can round out your meal beautifully. The caramelized flavors from roasting enhance their natural sweetness and add depth to your dining experience.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, you’re all set up for a delightful meal that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every bite of your vegan stuffed shells!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Stuffed Shells are not just a delight to eat, but they also make for outstanding meal prep! You can whip them up in advance and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to properly store and handle this delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, assemble the stuffed shells but do not bake them.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or cover with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• To reheat, cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• If you added dairy-free cheese, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to get that delightful melt.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these Vegan Stuffed Shells:

Can I use something other than cashews for the ricotta?

You can substitute cashews with sunflower seeds or hemp seeds if you have a nut allergy. The texture may vary slightly, but they will still create a creamy filling!

How do I make Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free?

To make Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free, simply use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells which are widely available at most grocery stores. This ensures everyone can enjoy this meal!

Can I prepare Vegan Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time, store them in the fridge or freezer, and bake when you’re ready for a delicious meal.

What can I serve with Vegan Stuffed Shells?

These stuffed shells pair beautifully with a side salad or some garlic bread. A light vinaigrette or marinara sauce on top will elevate your meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Vegan Stuffed Shells! They’re not only comforting and satisfying but also so versatile for any dietary preference. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, these shells are bound to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!