Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’ll impress everyone at the table, you’ve come to the right place! These Vegan Stuffed Shells are not just a delightful dish; they have quickly become a family favorite in my home. They’re creamy, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make them perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings with loved ones.

The best part? You can whip these up in about an hour, and they’re great for meal prep too. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for something delicious to enjoy on your own, these stuffed shells deliver every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy flavor and fun presentation of these stuffed shells.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep them in advance and bake when you’re ready to eat. Perfect for busy nights!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy filling and savory marinara makes each bite a taste sensation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for these Vegan Stuffed Shells! Just gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Ricotta 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 dry)

For the Shells

• 16 jumbo shells (regular or gluten-free)
• 16oz of your favorite marinara

Toppings (Optional)

• Fresh basil, roughly chopped
• Dairy-free cheese, shredded

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your stuffed shells. Here are some tasty ideas:

• Add More Veggies: Mix in some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for an extra veggie boost.
• Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like oregano or thyme to the ricotta mixture for an added kick.
• Change the Sauce: Swap out marinara for pesto or a creamy vegan sauce to change up the flavors.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different brands of dairy-free cheese or even sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top before baking for a cheesy flavor without the fuss.

How to Make Vegan Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This step ensures that your stuffed shells cook evenly when it’s time to bake.

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 helps soften them so they blend smoothly into a creamy filling.

Step 3: Cook the Jumbo Shells

While your cashews soak, cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions but reduce cooking time by one minute. You want them al dente since they will finish cooking in the oven. Once done, remove them from heat and set 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, ground black pepper, and oat milk. Blend on HIGH for 2-3 minutes until smooth. This creamy filling is what makes these Vegan Stuffed Shells truly special!

Step 5: Mix in Spinach

Pour your blended ricotta mixture into a medium-sized bowl and fold in the thawed spinach. This adds not only flavor but also nutrition!

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a casserole dish (about 10×7 inches works great). Spread half of your marinara sauce at the bottom. Carefully spoon the ricotta-spinach mixture into each shell and nestle them snugly into the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara over the top.

Step 7: Add Optional Cheese

If you want an extra layer of goodness, feel free to sprinkle dairy-free cheese on top before covering with foil.

Step 8: Bake!

Cover your dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes until bubbly. If you added cheese, uncover it during the last 5-10 minutes so it can melt beautifully.

Step 9: Serve with Style

Once everything is ready, serve your Vegan Stuffed Shells hot! Add some fresh basil on top if desired—it’s a lovely touch that adds both color and flavor.

Enjoy sharing this hearty meal with family or friends—you might just find that it’s their new favorite too!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Stuffed Shells

Creating the perfect Vegan Stuffed Shells can be a delightful experience, especially with a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Soak Your Cashews: This step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture in your ricotta mixture. Soaking softens the cashews, making them easier to blend and enhancing the overall richness of the filling.

• Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the salt, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast according to your taste preferences. This flexibility allows you to make the filling just right for your palate, ensuring that every bite is flavorful.

• Use Fresh Spinach: If you have it on hand, fresh spinach can be substituted for frozen. Just sauté it lightly before mixing it into the filling for an added touch of freshness and flavor.

• Don’t Overcook the Shells: Cooking the shells al dente prevents them from falling apart when stuffed and baked. They’ll soak up some marinara sauce while baking, resulting in perfectly cooked pasta.

• Experiment with Marinara: While your favorite marinara works great, consider trying different flavors or homemade versions. A spicy marinara or one with roasted veggies can add an extra dimension to your dish!

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Presentation is key when serving Vegan Stuffed Shells! With a few simple touches, you can turn this dish into a showstopper at any dinner table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of roughly chopped fresh basil not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s aroma and flavor.
• Dairy-Free Cheese: If you decide to use dairy-free cheese, adding an extra sprinkle on top after baking makes it visually appealing and deliciously gooey.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can provide a delightful kick that balances the dish’s creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread pairs perfectly with stuffed shells. The buttery garlic flavor complements the marinara sauce beautifully.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal. Try zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus tossed in olive oil and herbs for added flavor.
• Vegan Caesar Salad: A vegan take on Caesar salad made with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy dressing provides a satisfying crunch alongside your cheesy stuffed shells.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Vegan Stuffed Shells will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your dining table! Enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends – it’s sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Stuffed Shells are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time for quick weeknight dinners or to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store them effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to cover the shells with marinara sauce to keep them moist.

Freezing

• To freeze, assemble the stuffed shells but do not bake them.
• Place the unbaked shells in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• Cover the stuffed shells with foil and reheat for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• If frozen, add an extra 10-15 minutes to your baking time.

FAQs

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

Can I use a different type of dairy-free milk for the Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! While oat milk works great in this recipe, you can substitute it with almond milk, soy milk, or any other plant-based milk you prefer.

How do I make Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free?

To make these stuffed shells gluten-free, simply use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged and just as delicious!

How long do Vegan Stuffed Shells take to prepare?

The total time from start to finish is about one hour, including both prep and cooking time. It’s a simple process that results in a comforting meal!

Can I add other vegetables to my Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini into the ricotta mixture for added flavor and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Vegan Stuffed Shells! They are not only a hearty and satisfying dish but also a fantastic way to bring family and friends together. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for busy days ahead, this recipe is bound to impress. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!