Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s easy to whip up on busy weeknights, then you’ve come to the right place! These Vegan Stuffed Shells are a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for family gatherings or a simple dinner at home, these stuffed shells will quickly become a favorite in your household.

What makes this recipe so special is not just its delicious taste but also how it showcases the beautiful harmony of plant-based ingredients. You’ll be amazed at how satisfying and creamy the filling is, thanks to the clever use of cashews and tofu. Let’s dive into why you’re going to love making these Vegan Stuffed Shells!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will rave about these cheesy, flavorful shells!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble them when ready to bake.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spinach, cashews, and marinara creates a mouthwatering combination everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for these Vegan Stuffed Shells are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create a delicious meal without any fuss. 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

For the Shells

• 9oz package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed out (to remove excess liquid)
• 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! Feel free to mix things up with these variations:

• Swap the greens: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Add some spice: Toss in red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to give your filling an extra kick.
• Change up the sauce: Experiment with pesto or a creamy vegan sauce for a unique twist.
• Incorporate veggies: Add finely chopped mushrooms or bell peppers into the ricotta mixture for added nutrition.

How to Make Vegan Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This sets the stage for perfectly baked stuffed shells.

Step 2: Prepare the Cashews

Place raw cashews in a heat-safe bowl and cover them with boiling water. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes. Soaking helps soften them, allowing for easier blending into that dreamy ricotta texture.

Step 3: Cook Your Shells

While the cashews soak, cook your jumbo shells according to package instructions but reduce cooking time by about one minute. You want them al dente since they’ll continue cooking in the oven.

Step 4: Blend the Filling

Drain your soaked cashews and add them to a high-speed blender along with tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, salt, pepper, and oat milk. Blend on high until smooth and creamy—about 2-3 minutes should do it! Taste and adjust seasoning if needed; this is where you can really make it your own!

Step 5: Mix in Spinach

Transfer your blended ricotta mixture into a medium-sized bowl and gently fold in the thawed spinach. This adds both flavor and nutrition!

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a casserole dish (about 10×7 inches works well). Pour half of your marinara sauce at the bottom. Then carefully stuff each shell with your ricotta mixture before placing them into the dish. Once filled, pour on the remaining marinara sauce.

Step 7: Bake Away!

Cover your dish with foil and pop it into that preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes or until bubbly! If you decided to add dairy-free cheese on top, remove the foil during the last few minutes so it can melt beautifully.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Once they’re done baking, take out your Vegan Stuffed Shells and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired—this adds an aromatic touch that elevates every bite!

Now you have everything you need to create this delightful dish! Enjoy these Vegan Stuffed Shells with family or friends; I promise they won’t last long!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Stuffed Shells

Making these Vegan Stuffed Shells is a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Soak the cashews: Soaking cashews before blending creates a smoother texture for the ricotta filling. This ensures that every bite is creamy and delicious.
• Use fresh spinach: While frozen spinach works perfectly, using fresh spinach can add an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. Just sauté it lightly before mixing into the filling for a vibrant touch!
• Adjust seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste your ricotta mixture before stuffing the shells. Adjusting the salt or adding more nutritional yeast can make a big difference in flavor.
• Cook shells al dente: Cooking the pasta shells for slightly less time ensures they won’t become mushy while baking, maintaining their shape and providing a perfect bite.
• Experiment with sauces: If you’re feeling adventurous, try different marinara sauces—like spicy arrabbiata or roasted garlic marinara—to give your stuffed shells a unique twist.

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Presenting your Vegan Stuffed Shells beautifully can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some ideas to help you serve this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of roughly chopped fresh basil not only adds color but also brings a burst of aromatic freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes gives an exciting kick that elevates the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A classic pairing! Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce on your plate.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty stuffed shells.
• Roasted veggies: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and texture to your meal while enhancing its nutritional value.
• Vegan Caesar salad: Creamy and satisfying, this plant-based twist on Caesar salad complements the stuffed shells beautifully with its crunchy croutons and zesty dressing.

With these serving suggestions in mind, your Vegan Stuffed Shells will not only be delicious but also visually appealing and perfectly balanced! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Vegan Stuffed Shells are perfect for meal prep! This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also makes your weeknight dinners a breeze. You can easily prepare them in advance and store or freeze them for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-5 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before freezing.
• Arrange the shells in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated shells, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen shells, no need to thaw. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 35-40 minutes, covered with foil for the first half of cooking time.
• Check that they are heated thoroughly before serving.

FAQs

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

Can I make Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free jumbo shells instead of regular ones. The filling is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this meal without worry.

How do I store leftover Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just follow our guidelines above!

Can I use other vegetables in the stuffing?

Yes! Feel free to get creative. You can add ingredients like mushrooms, artichokes, or zucchini to mix things up and boost nutrition.

How do I make Vegan Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to adjust cooking time if they’re chilled!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Vegan Stuffed Shells – they truly are a warm hug on a plate! This recipe is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, these stuffed shells will surely impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family!