Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s easy to whip up on busy weeknights, then you’ve come to the right place! These Vegan Stuffed Shells are not just delicious but also a wonderful way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a classic Italian-inspired dish. Filled with a creamy, flavorful mixture that both kids and adults will love, this recipe has quickly become a family favorite in our home. Perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners, these shells will surely impress your loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for those hectic evenings when you want something homemade.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the delightful flavors and cheesy texture—it’s a meal even picky eaters can enjoy!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble these shells ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cashews, spinach, and marinara creates a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with plant-based ingredients, these stuffed shells are not only tasty but also nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful Vegan Stuffed Shells:

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 sauce

Optional Toppings

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to customize your Vegan Stuffed Shells:

• Add More Veggies: Stir in diced bell peppers or mushrooms into your filling for added flavor and nutrients.
• Change Up the Greens: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different green twist.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the filling for an extra kick of flavor.
• Try Different Sauces: Swap out marinara for a pesto sauce for a refreshing change!

How to Make Vegan Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prepare the Cashews

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Next, place the raw cashews in a heat-safe bowl. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil and pour it over the cashews. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes. This soaking process softens the cashews so they blend easily into a creamy filling later.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

While the cashews are soaking, cook your jumbo shells according to package instructions. Make sure to cook them just a minute less than directed; we want them very al dente since they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Once cooked, set them aside on a plate to cool slightly.

Step 3: Blend Your Filling

Once your cashews have soaked, drain them 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 about 2-3 minutes until everything is smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides as needed! Taste it and adjust any seasonings if necessary.

Step 4: Mix in Spinach

Pour your creamy ricotta mixture into a medium-sized bowl. Now it’s time to fold in that thawed spinach until well combined—this adds great flavor and nutrition!

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a 10×7 casserole dish (or something similar). Pour about 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 into the marinara sauce snugly. Once all shells are filled, cover them generously with the remaining marinara.

Step 6: Bake!

If you’d like a cheesy topping, sprinkle some dairy-free cheese over your stuffed shells before covering the pan with foil. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until you see bubbles forming in that delicious sauce. If you added cheese, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes so that it melts beautifully.

Step 7: Serve with Fresh Basil

Once baked to perfection, serve your Vegan Stuffed Shells warm and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal made with love!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Stuffed Shells

Making the perfect Vegan Stuffed Shells is all about a few simple tricks that can elevate your dish to a whole new level. Here are some tips to ensure your stuffed shells turn out delicious every time!

• Soak Cashews Properly: Soaking the cashews for at least 10-15 minutes softens them, making it easier to achieve a creamy texture when blended. This creates a delightful ricotta-like filling.

• Don’t Overcook the Shells: Cooking the pasta shells just under al dente ensures they won’t become mushy during baking. They’ll soak up flavors from the marinara while staying firm and delicious.

• Season to Taste: Tasting the ricotta mixture before stuffing is crucial. Adjusting the seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or nutritional yeast allows you to customize the flavor profile according to your preference.

• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like chopped bell peppers or mushrooms into the ricotta filling. This not only adds more nutrients but also enhances the flavor and texture of your stuffed shells.

• Experiment with Sauces: While marinara is classic, don’t hesitate to try different sauces! A homemade pesto or a creamy vegan Alfredo can bring exciting new flavors to your Vegan Stuffed Shells.

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Serving Vegan Stuffed Shells can be just as enjoyable as making them! With a little creativity, you can turn this comforting dish into an impressive meal for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a burst of color and flavor, complementing the marinara beautifully.
• Nutritional Yeast: Sprinkling some nutritional yeast on top gives an extra cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes brings a delightful kick to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing! Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce on your plate.
• Caesar Salad: A refreshing Caesar salad with crunchy romaine and a zesty dressing balances out the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition. Try zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli drizzled with olive oil and herbs for an easy side.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious and vibrant contrast, plus it’s quick and easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Vegan Stuffed Shells will not only taste amazing but also look gorgeous on your dining table. Enjoy creating this heartwarming meal with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Stuffed Shells recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance and enjoy delicious, hearty dinners throughout the week.

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

• Prepare the stuffed shells as directed but do not bake them.
• Once assembled, cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• Cover the dish with foil and reheat for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can uncover it for the last few minutes if you want a slightly crispy top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Stuffed Shells.

Can I make Vegan Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to bake.

What can I substitute for tofu in Vegan Stuffed Shells?

If you’re looking for a tofu alternative, consider using blended silken tofu or even mashed avocado for creaminess without the soy!

How can I make Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free jumbo shells and ensure that your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables to my Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Yes! Feel free to mix in other sautéed veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers into the ricotta mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I spice up my Vegan Stuffed Shells?

You can add Italian herbs like oregano, basil, or red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor of your filling.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Vegan Stuffed Shells as much as I do! This dish is not only simple but also brings comfort and joy to your dining table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal prep treat, these shells are sure to please everyone. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to add your personal touch!