Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the soul and pleases the palate, you’ve come to the right place! Vegan Stuffed Shells are one of my absolute favorites. They’re not just delicious; they also bring a sense of home and togetherness to any table. Picture this: creamy, flavorful filling nestled in tender pasta shells, smothered in rich marinara sauce. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone smile, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings alike.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and heartiness. You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making it a go-to for meal prep. Plus, it’s a delightful way to include more plant-based meals in your diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this hearty dish in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will enjoy digging into these comforting Vegan Stuffed Shells.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This dish is perfect for prepping in advance; simply assemble and bake when you’re ready!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like spinach and cashews, it’s as good for you as it is tasty.
• Versatile Options: Customize the filling or toppings to suit your taste—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these shells!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry! Gather them up and let’s get started on creating this delicious Vegan Stuffed Shells dish.

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 and Sauce

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

Variations

One of the best things about Vegan Stuffed Shells is their flexibility! You can easily mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the greens: Try using kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor and texture.
• Add some spice: Mix in crushed red pepper flakes or sautéed garlic for an extra kick!
• Change up the cheese: Use different types of dairy-free cheese or even add nutritional yeast on top before baking for a cheesy flavor.
• Stuff with veggies: Get creative by adding roasted bell peppers or mushrooms into the filling for added depth!

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 will cook evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Soak Your Cashews

Place the raw cashews in a heat-safe bowl. Bring 2 cups of water to boil and pour it over the cashews. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. Soaking helps soften them, making blending much easier later on!

Step 3: Cook Your Pasta Shells

Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions but aim for about one minute less than directed so they remain very al dente. They’ll finish cooking beautifully in the oven! Once done, drain them carefully and set aside on a plate to cool slightly.

Step 4: Blend Your Filling

Drain the 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 2-3 minutes until smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed. Taste your mixture and adjust seasoning if desired; add more oat milk if necessary for creaminess.

Step 5: Combine with Spinach

Pour your creamy ricotta-like mixture into a medium bowl and gently fold in the thawed spinach until well combined. This adds nutrition and vibrant color!

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a casserole dish (about 10×7 works well) and pour half of your marinara sauce at the bottom. Now comes the fun part! Using a spoon, fill each shell with your ricotta mixture and nestle them snugly into the marinara sauce. Once all shells are filled, cover them with remaining marinara sauce.

Step 7: Add Optional Toppings

If you’d like some cheesy goodness on top, sprinkle dairy-free cheese over your assembled shells now.

Step 8: Bake It Up

Cover your dish with foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for around 30 minutes until bubbly! If you’ve added cheese, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes so it can melt beautifully.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped basil for an aromatic touch! Enjoy these delightful Vegan Stuffed Shells with loved ones—they’re sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Stuffed Shells

These delicious stuffed shells are sure to impress your family and friends, and with a few handy tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Soak your cashews: Soaking the cashews not only softens them, making them easier to blend, but it also enhances their creamy texture, creating a smooth ricotta-like filling.

• Don’t overcook the shells: Cooking the pasta shells just shy of al dente means they will finish cooking in the oven without becoming mushy. This leads to a better texture overall.

• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to customize the filling by adding herbs like oregano or thyme. This can personalize the flavor and make it even more delicious!

• Use fresh spinach when possible: If you have access to fresh spinach, go ahead and use it instead of frozen! Fresh spinach has a brighter flavor and adds vibrant color to your dish.

• Let them rest before serving: Allowing the stuffed shells to sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking helps them set up a bit, making them easier to serve without falling apart.

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Serving vegan stuffed shells is all about presentation and pairing them with complementary flavors. Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a burst of color and enhances the Italian flavors in your dish.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little spice, red pepper flakes can add heat and contrast beautifully with the creamy filling.
• Nutritional yeast: Dusting a little nutritional yeast on top provides an extra cheesy flavor without any dairy!

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that delicious marinara sauce while adding a crunchy texture.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the warm stuffed shells.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add color and nutrients while complementing the dish’s flavors.
• Vegan Caesar Salad: A twist on the traditional Caesar, this salad made with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy vegan dressing offers a rich yet light pairing.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions in hand, you’re well on your way to crafting an unforgettable meal that everyone will love! Enjoy your culinary adventure with these Vegan Stuffed Shells!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Stuffed Shells recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious plant-based dinner throughout the week. You can easily prepare it in advance and store it for later, making dinner time stress-free!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the marinara sauce separate if preferred, to maintain shell texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, prepare the dish as directed but do not bake it.
• Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Label your container with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffed shells overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and cover the dish with foil.
• Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until heated through. If reheating refrigerated shells, cook for about 20 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free jumbo shells and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How can I enhance my Vegan Stuffed Shells flavor?

You can add herbs like oregano or thyme to the ricotta mixture for extra flavor or use a spicy marinara sauce if you enjoy a kick!

Can I use different vegetables in my Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Yes! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini into your ricotta mixture for added nutrition and taste.

What can I serve with Vegan Stuffed Shells?

These stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. You could also serve them with a simple steamed vegetable medley.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Vegan Stuffed Shells! They’re not just a meal; they’re a cozy hug on a plate that everyone will love. Experiment with flavors and toppings that suit your taste, and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!