Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying meal that pleases everyone at the table, look no further than these Vegan Stuffed Shells! This delightful dish is not just a feast for the eyes but also a warm hug for your taste buds. Creamy, flavorful, and filled with wholesome ingredients, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Plus, they make great leftovers for meal prep!

What makes this recipe extra special is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip up these shells in under an hour, making it a go-to choice when you want something comforting without spending all day in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you’ll have this delicious meal on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love digging into these cheesy stuffed shells—kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these ahead of time, making dinner even easier on busy nights.
• Nutrient-Packed: Packed with spinach and protein-rich tofu, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty!
• Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to customize the filling or sauce according to your family’s tastes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create your Vegan Stuffed Shells. Let’s gather what we need!

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 to remove excess liquid)

For the Shells

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

Optional Toppings

• (optional) fresh basil, roughly chopped
• (optional) dairy-free cheese, shredded

Variations

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

• Swap the greens: Try using kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor and texture.
• Add spices: Spice things up by adding garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes to your filling.
• Change the sauce: Experiment with pesto or a creamy white sauce instead of marinara for a unique twist.
• Mix in veggies: Incorporate roasted bell peppers or mushrooms into the filling for added flavor and nutrition.

How to Make Vegan Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step ensures that your vegan stuffed shells cook evenly and come out perfectly bubbling hot.

Step 2: Prepare the Cashews

Place raw cashews in a heat-safe bowl. Boil about 2 cups of water and pour it over the cashews. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. Soaking helps them blend smoothly into a creamy filling later on!

Step 3: Cook the Shells

Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions but reduce cooking time by one minute so they remain al dente. They will finish cooking in the oven. Once done, set them aside on a plate to cool slightly.

Step 4: Blend the Filling

Drain the soaked cashews and place them into a high-speed blender along with tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, kosher salt, black pepper, and oat milk. Blend on HIGH for 2-3 minutes until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—this creamy mixture is going to be delicious!

Step 5: Add Spinach

Pour your creamy ricotta mixture into a medium bowl and gently fold in the thawed spinach. This step adds both nutrition and vibrant color to your stuffing.

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a casserole dish (about 10×7 inches works well) and spread half of your marinara sauce at the bottom. Take each shell one by one, fill it with your ricotta-spinach mixture, and place it snugly in the dish. Cover with remaining marinara sauce.

Step 7: Add Cheese (Optional)

If you like extra creaminess, sprinkle some dairy-free cheese on top before baking!

Step 8: Bake It Up

Cover your casserole dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly.

Step 9: Finish Off Uncovered (Optional)

If you added cheese, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking so that it can melt beautifully over your stuffed shells.

Step 10: Serve It Warm

Once baked to perfection, serve with fresh basil sprinkled on top if desired. Enjoy every bite of this comforting Vegan Stuffed Shells dish!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Stuffed Shells

Making Vegan Stuffed Shells can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to the next level!

• Soak cashews properly: Soaking the cashews in hot water for 10-15 minutes not only softens them but also makes them blend smoother, resulting in a creamier filling.

• Don’t overcook the shells: Cooking the jumbo shells just shy of al dente ensures they hold their shape during baking and prevents them from becoming mushy when filled with the ricotta mixture.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: After blending the tofu and cashew mixture, always taste and adjust the seasoning. This step allows you to personalize the flavors to your preference and ensures that every bite is delicious.

• Use fresh spinach if possible: While frozen spinach is convenient, using fresh spinach can enhance both flavor and texture. Simply sauté it lightly before adding it to your ricotta mixture for an extra touch.

• Experiment with sauces: Feel free to switch up the marinara sauce with different varieties or even homemade sauces. A basil pesto or roasted red pepper sauce can add unique flavors that complement the stuffed shells beautifully.

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Presenting your Vegan Stuffed Shells in an inviting way can make mealtime even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas for serving this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of roughly chopped fresh basil adds a burst of color and a refreshing herbal note that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the shells.
• Dairy-free cheese: If you love a cheesy topping, consider using shredded dairy-free cheese. It melts beautifully and adds a deliciously creamy layer on top.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast to the soft stuffed shells. Simply spread vegan butter mixed with minced garlic on slices of bread, then toast until golden brown.

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the stuffed shells. The freshness adds a nice crunch.

• Roasted Vegetables: Season your favorite seasonal vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender. The caramelized flavors will complement the flavors of your stuffed shells beautifully.

• Steamed Broccoli: An easy side that’s packed with nutrients, steamed broccoli offers a vibrant green color and is perfect for dipping into any leftover marinara sauce!

Now that you have these tips and serving suggestions in your back pocket, you’re ready to impress everyone at dinner time with your delicious Vegan Stuffed Shells!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Stuffed Shells are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, store them, and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your delicious creation fresh!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the stuffed shells as instructed but do not bake them.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If frozen, let the dish thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Remove the foil for the last few minutes if you want a bubbly top.

FAQs

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

Can I use other types of pasta shells for Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! While jumbo shells work best for stuffing, feel free to experiment with other large pasta shapes like manicotti or even use cannelloni tubes.

What can I substitute if I don’t have nutritional yeast for my Vegan Stuffed Shells?

If you don’t have nutritional yeast, you can try using a little bit of vegan parmesan or skip it entirely; just add extra seasoning to ensure flavor.

How can I make my Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free?

To make these stuffed shells gluten-free, simply use gluten-free jumbo shells and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare Vegan Stuffed Shells in advance?

Yes! You can assemble and refrigerate or freeze the stuffed shells ahead of time. Follow the storage instructions above for best results.

What sides pair well with Vegan Stuffed Shells?

These stuffed shells go wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. Feel free to mix and match according to your preference!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and satisfaction into your kitchen! Vegan Stuffed Shells are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious and comforting. Enjoy preparing this dish, share it with loved ones, and savor every bite. Happy cooking!