Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to whip up on busy weeknights, you’ve come to the right place! Vegan Stuffed Shells have quickly become a family favorite in my house. They are not only satisfying but also packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd during a family gathering or just want something hearty for dinner, these stuffed shells fit the bill perfectly. Plus, they’re so simple to make!

Imagine tender pasta shells filled with a creamy, flavorful vegan ricotta and smothered in rich marinara sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a dish! What makes this recipe even better is that it’s both nutritious and incredibly fulfilling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a mouthwatering dish ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds – it’s that good!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these stuffed shells ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cashews, tofu, and spinach creates a creamy filling that bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for various occasions – whether it’s game night, potluck, or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for these Vegan Stuffed Shells! You probably have most of these items in your pantry already.

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 of excess liquid)

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Swap the greens: Try using kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Add some protein: Toss in some cooked lentils or chickpeas into the ricotta filling for an extra protein boost.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling if you love a bit of heat!
• Change the sauce: Experiment with different sauces like pesto or Alfredo sauce for a unique twist.

How to Make Vegan Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your stuffed shells bake evenly and achieve that perfect bubbly goodness when they come out.

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 soak for about 10-15 minutes. Soaking helps soften them so they blend smoothly into your vegan ricotta!

Step 3: Cook the Jumbo Shells

Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions but reduce cooking time by about one minute. You want them al dente since they’ll finish cooking while baking. Once done, set them aside on a plate to cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

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 until smooth—about 2-3 minutes—scraping down sides as needed. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if necessary!

Step 5: Mix in Spinach

Pour your creamy ricotta mixture into a medium-sized bowl and fold in the thawed spinach. This adds both flavor and nutrition to your filling.

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a casserole dish (around 10×7 inches works well), spread half of your marinara sauce on the bottom. Carefully fill each shell with spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture and nestle them into the sauce. Once all are placed, cover them with the remaining marinara sauce.

Step 7: Bake It Up!

If you’d like, sprinkle some dairy-free cheese on top before covering with foil. Bake for about 30 minutes or until bubbly—your kitchen will smell divine!

Step 8: Enjoy!

If you added cheese, uncover it for the last few minutes to let it melt beautifully. Serve warm topped with fresh basil if desired. 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 with a few handy tips, you can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Soak your cashews properly – Allowing the cashews to soak in hot water softens them, making it easier to blend into a creamy texture that mimics traditional ricotta.
• Don’t overcook the shells – Cooking them just shy of al dente ensures they hold their shape during baking and won’t turn mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Season tastefully – Always taste your filling before stuffing the shells. Adjusting the flavors at this stage ensures your filling is perfectly seasoned.
• Use fresh spinach if possible – While frozen spinach works great, using fresh spinach provides a vibrant flavor and added nutrients that enhance the dish’s overall taste.
• Experiment with marinara – Try different marinara sauces or even make your own! A homemade sauce can add personalized flavors that make your stuffed shells truly unique.

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Serving Vegan Stuffed Shells is an opportunity to showcase your beautiful creation! Consider these ideas to present this hearty dish in style.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a burst of color and aromatic flavor that complements the marinara beautifully.
• Nutritional yeast: For an extra cheesy flavor without dairy, sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top before serving.
• Red pepper flakes: If you like a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes brings a delightful kick to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: This classic side pairs perfectly with stuffed shells. The buttery garlic flavor complements the richness of the marinara sauce.
• Mixed green salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances out the heaviness of the stuffed shells.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables, such as zucchini and bell peppers, provide a colorful and nutritious addition to your meal.
• Vegan Caesar salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy vegan dressing creates a satisfying contrast to the warm stuffed shells.

With these serving tips, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your delicious Vegan Stuffed Shells! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Vegan Stuffed Shells are perfect for meal prep, making them a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a delicious dish later in the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the stuffed shells as directed but do not bake them.
• Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• If refrigerated, bake directly from the fridge for about 20-25 minutes; if frozen, bake for about 40-45 minutes, covered with foil.
• Remove foil during the last 5-10 minutes if you added cheese, allowing it to melt.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Vegan Stuffed Shells that might help you.

Can I make Vegan Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions above for the best results.

What can I substitute for cashews in Vegan Stuffed Shells?

If you have a nut allergy or prefer not to use cashews, try using sunflower seeds or silken tofu as an alternative. Both will provide a creamy texture without compromising flavor.

How do I ensure my Vegan Stuffed Shells are gluten-free?

To keep this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free jumbo shells available at most grocery stores. They’ll work just as well!

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh spinach can be used in place of frozen. Just sauté it briefly until wilted before mixing it into the ricotta mixture.

What should I serve with Vegan Stuffed Shells?

These stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread. You might also enjoy a light tomato soup on the side for extra comfort!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Vegan Stuffed Shells! They’re not just delicious; they’re also a fantastic way to bring family and friends together around the dinner table. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy making this recipe and feel free to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!