Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that brings everyone together, look no further than Vegan Stuffed Shells! This dish is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance with joy. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug—perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that make it not only delicious but also good for you!

I’ve always loved stuffed shells because they remind me of family dinners and laughter around the table. This plant-based version is just as satisfying as the classic, and I promise it will become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, this recipe is perfect for any home cook.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy these flavorful shells filled with creamy goodness.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble the shells in advance, making weeknight meals a breeze!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cashews, tofu, and spinach creates a rich filling that’s bursting with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! These are all simple and wholesome components that you likely have on hand or can easily find at your local 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 squeezed out as much liquid as possible

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 Vegan Stuffed Shells is how flexible this recipe can be! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using different leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a unique twist.
• Add some spice: If you like a bit more heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the filling or marinara sauce.
• Mix in veggies: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms into the filling for added texture and flavor.
• Try different sauces: Experiment with pesto or a creamy Alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a different taste experience.

How to Make Vegan Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. While that’s warming up, place your raw cashews in a heat-safe bowl. Boil 2 cups of water and pour it over the cashews. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes. This step softens them up so they blend beautifully into your ricotta mixture later!

Step 2: Cook Your Shells

Next, cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions—but here’s a little tip: cook them about 1 minute less than recommended. This keeps them al dente so they don’t get mushy while baking. Once done, remove them from boiling water and set aside on a plate to cool slightly.

Step 3: Blend Your Filling

Now it’s time to create that delicious filling! Drain your soaked cashews and add them to a high-speed blender along with firm tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and oat milk. Blend on HIGH for about 2-3 minutes until everything is smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as needed!

Step 4: Mix in Spinach

Pour your blended mixture into a medium-sized bowl and gently fold in the thawed spinach. This adds not only great nutrition but also beautiful color and texture to your filling.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a casserole dish (about 10×7 inches works well) and spread half of your marinara sauce at the bottom. Now comes the fun part! Take each shell one by one and fill them generously with your ricotta mixture before nestling them into the marinara sauce. Once all shells are filled, cover them with the remaining sauce.

Step 6: Bake

If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some dairy-free cheese over the top before covering it all with foil. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes until bubbly. If you’ve added cheese, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to let it melt beautifully.

Step 7: Serve It Up

Once out of the oven, let those lovely stuffed shells cool for just a moment before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if you wish; trust me—it adds an extra pop of freshness that makes each bite even more enjoyable!

And there you have it—your very own Vegan Stuffed Shells ready to impress! Enjoy every bite alongside friends or family; this dish truly shines when shared!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Stuffed Shells

These vegan stuffed shells are sure to impress, and with a few pro tips, you can make them even more delightful!

• Soak those cashews! – Allowing the cashews to soak in hot water softens them, making your filling ultra-creamy and smooth when blended.

• Don’t overcook the shells! – Cooking the jumbo shells just shy of al dente prevents them from becoming mushy during baking, ensuring they hold their shape and provide the perfect bite.

• Taste as you go! – Before filling your shells, taste the ricotta mixture. Adjusting flavors at this stage allows you to create a filling that’s tailored to your palate.

• Experiment with marinara! – Feel free to switch up your marinara sauce with different flavors or brands. A roasted garlic tomato sauce or a spicy arrabbiata can add a fun twist!

• Make it ahead! – Prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes for an effortless weeknight dinner that just needs popping in the oven.

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Presentation is key when serving these delicious stuffed shells. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more appealing!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: Adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor that complements the marinara beautifully.
• Nutritional yeast sprinkle: For an extra cheesy flavor without dairy, sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top before serving.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: If you like a little heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will add an exciting kick!

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery (vegan style), garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover marinara sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized make for a hearty side that complements the dish well.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and essential nutrients to your meal while being easy to prepare.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your vegan stuffed shells will not only be a hit but also look stunning on the dinner table. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

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

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

• Assemble the stuffed shells but do not bake them.
• Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap before freezing.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• Place the leftover stuffed shells in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can remove the foil in the last few minutes if you want a crispy top.

FAQs

I’m here to answer your burning questions about making Vegan Stuffed Shells!

Can I use gluten-free pasta for Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! Just choose a gluten-free brand of jumbo shells, and follow the cooking instructions on the package. The filling remains delicious regardless of pasta type.

How can I make Vegan Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

You can prepare the stuffed shells by filling them and placing them in a baking dish. Cover them with marinara sauce and refrigerate or freeze until you’re ready to bake. This makes dinner planning so much easier!

What other fillings can I use for Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Feel free to get creative! You could add sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or even different leafy greens like kale. The possibilities are endless!

Can I substitute cashews in this recipe?

Yes! If you’re allergic to nuts, you can try using sunflower seeds or silken tofu as an alternative. Adjust the seasoning to taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Vegan Stuffed Shells! They are not only comforting but also packed with flavor and nutrition, making them a delightful addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy sharing this dish with family and friends, and don’t hesitate to experiment with variations that suit your taste! Happy cooking!