Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that pleases everyone at the table, these Vegan Stuffed Shells are just what you need! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s not only easy to whip up but also packed with flavor. Picture this: creamy, cheesy filling nestled in tender shells, all smothered in rich marinara sauce. It’s the kind of dish that warms your soul and brings smiles to your family gatherings or busy weeknight dinners.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or simply feeding the family after a long day, Vegan Stuffed Shells are sure to be a hit. Trust me, once you try them, they will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe can be ready in just an hour, making it perfect for those busy nights when time is tight.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love these cheesy stuffed shells—who can resist that gooey goodness?
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare everything in advance and pop it in the oven later for an effortless meal.
• Deliciously Nutritious: Packed with wholesome ingredients like spinach and cashews, this dish is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Customizable: With so many ways to tweak the filling and sauce, you’ll never get bored!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for these Vegan Stuffed Shells! You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store.

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 drained)

For the Shells

• 16 jumbo shells (regular or gluten-free)
• 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 they are! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and textures. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the Greens: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different nutrient boost.
• Add Some Spice: Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
• Change Up the Sauce: Try using pesto or alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a unique twist.
• Incorporate Other Veggies: Add roasted bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor.

How to Make Vegan Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step ensures that your dish cooks evenly from top to bottom.

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 softens them, making it easier to blend into a smooth mixture.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Shells

Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions but reduce the cooking time by one minute so they remain firm. This way, they won’t fall apart when we bake them later!

Step 4: Blend the Filling

Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a high-speed blender along with tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, salt, pepper, and oat milk. Blend on HIGH until smooth and creamy—this will be your delicious ricotta-like filling!

Step 5: Mix in Spinach

Pour your blended mixture into a bowl and fold in the drained spinach. This adds color and nutrients to our filling.

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a casserole dish (about 10×7 inches works well), pour half of your marinara sauce on the bottom, then stuff each shell with spoonfuls of filling before placing them snugly in the dish. Cover with more marinara sauce on top!

Step 7: Bake Away!

Cover your pan with foil and bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly. Baking helps meld all those wonderful flavors together.

Step 8: Add Cheesy Goodness (Optional)

If you’re using dairy-free cheese, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking so it can melt beautifully on top.

Step 9: Garnish & Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle some fresh basil on top if desired before serving. Enjoy every bite of these delightful Vegan Stuffed Shells!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Stuffed Shells

Making vegan stuffed shells is a delightful experience, and these tips will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Soak Your Cashews – Soaking cashews in hot water helps them blend into a creamy texture, making your filling velvety and smooth.

• Taste as You Go – Before stuffing the shells, be sure to taste your ricotta mixture. Adjusting the seasoning at this stage ensures the flavors are just right.

• Don’t Overcook the Shells – Cooking the jumbo shells al dente prevents them from becoming mushy during baking, keeping their shape and texture intact.

• Use Quality Marinara Sauce – A flavorful marinara sauce enhances the overall taste of your dish. Choose one that you love, or even better, make your own for an extra touch!

• Experiment with Fillings – Feel free to add extra vegetables or spices to your ricotta mixture. Chopped mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile even more!

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Serving vegan stuffed shells is all about presentation and creating a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil – A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a burst of color and a fragrant aroma that complements the marinara beautifully.

• Dairy-Free Cheese – If you’re using dairy-free cheese on top, consider adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce on your plate. It’s simple to make and deliciously satisfying.

• Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the stuffed shells while adding crunch.

• Roasted Vegetables – Season seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers with olive oil and herbs before roasting them. They provide a colorful complement to the meal.

• Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice adds both nutrition and a refreshing contrast to the hearty stuffed shells.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll have everyone raving about your vegan stuffed shells! Enjoy crafting this delicious meal for family or friends; they won’t even miss the meat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Stuffed Shells are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious stuffed shells.

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.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the stuffed shells cool completely.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffed shells in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before following the reheating instructions above.

FAQs

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

Can I make Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free jumbo shells and ensure that your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.

How do I store leftover Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. See the storing section above for more details!

Can I add other vegetables to my Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Yes! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini with the spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

How can I make Vegan Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

You can assemble your stuffed shells ahead of time and store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them.

What can I serve with Vegan Stuffed Shells?

These shells pair beautifully with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Vegan Stuffed Shells brings joy and comfort to your table! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that everyone will love. Enjoy making this delicious dish, and please share your experience! Happy cooking!