Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a comforting, plant-based meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then Vegan Stuffed Shells are just the dish for you! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines cozy flavors with simple ingredients. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these stuffed shells are sure to impress everyone at the table.

The magic of this dish lies in its creamy filling and rich marinara sauce. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some greens with the spinach! Trust me, once you try these Vegan Stuffed Shells, you’ll want to make them again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves pasta, and this dish is no exception. Kids and adults alike will enjoy every bite!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can assemble these shells ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready. Perfect for meal prep!
• Deliciously creamy: The cashew-tofu filling creates a rich and satisfying texture that’s sure to please.
• Versatile and customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for these Vegan Stuffed Shells! You’ll find everything you need right here:

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

Optional Toppings

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your fillings and toppings. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the greens: If spinach isn’t your thing, try using kale or Swiss chard instead for a different flavor.
• Add more veggies: Mix in roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and taste.
• Change the sauce: Feel free to experiment with different sauces like pesto or Alfredo for a unique twist.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to give your stuffed shells a little kick!

How to Make Vegan Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prepare the Cashews

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Next, 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 the cashews makes them blend smoother later on!

Step 2: Cook the Shells

While the cashews are soaking, cook your jumbo shells according to package instructions. Be sure to cook them about one minute less than recommended so they remain slightly firm (al dente). They will finish cooking in the oven! Once done, remove them from heat and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Blend the Filling

After draining your soaked cashews, add them to a high-speed blender along with tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, kosher salt, black pepper, and oat milk. Blend on HIGH for about 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy! Don’t forget to scrape down the sides as needed. Taste your mixture—feel free to adjust seasoning if you like!

Step 4: Mix in Spinach

Pour that delicious ricotta-like mixture into a medium-sized bowl and gently fold in the thawed spinach until well combined. This adding of greens not only boosts nutrition but also adds lovely color!

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a casserole dish (about 10×7 works great!) and spread half of your marinara sauce at the bottom. Now comes the fun part—take spoonfuls of that creamy filling and stuff each shell generously before placing them into the marinara sauce. Once all are nestled in place, cover with remaining sauce.

Step 6: Bake Away!

If you’d like some cheesy goodness on top, sprinkle dairy-free cheese over everything now. Cover your casserole with foil and bake for about 30 minutes or until bubbly magic happens! If you added cheese, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes so it can melt beautifully.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Once done baking, serve your Vegan Stuffed Shells warm with fresh basil sprinkled on top if you desire! It’s time to dig into this hearty meal that everyone will rave about!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Stuffed Shells

Making Vegan Stuffed Shells is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Soak your cashews – This step is crucial as it softens the nuts, allowing for a smoother and creamier ricotta-like filling. The result is a richer flavor and texture that elevates your dish.

• Don’t overcook the shells – Cooking them just under al dente ensures they hold their shape during baking. This way, you’ll have beautifully stuffed shells that retain their integrity and don’t fall apart.

• Adjust seasonings to taste – Everyone’s palate is different! After blending the filling, take a moment to taste it and adjust the salt, pepper, or even add more nutritional yeast for extra flavor.

• Use frozen spinach wisely – Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the spinach as possible. This prevents the filling from being watery and helps maintain the desired texture of your stuffed shells.

• Experiment with toppings – Feel free to get creative with your garnishes. Adding fresh herbs or dairy-free cheese can enhance both the appearance and flavor of your dish!

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Serving Vegan Stuffed Shells can be as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to make your meal visually appealing and delicious.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil – A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil on top not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the freshness of the flavors in your dish.
• Nutritional yeast sprinkle – A dusting of nutritional yeast provides an added umami flavor and makes it look like you’ve added cheese without any dairy!

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread – A classic accompaniment that’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious marinara sauce. You can make it vegan by using dairy-free butter and fresh garlic.

• Mixed green salad – A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the stuffed shells. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado for added texture.

• Roasted vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus offer a colorful side that’s packed with nutrients and complements the pasta beautifully.

• Steamed broccoli or green beans – These simple sides add a nutritious crunch to your meal while being easy to prepare. Drizzle with lemon juice for an extra zing!

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, your Vegan Stuffed Shells will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to bring everyone together around the dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Stuffed Shells are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them, and enjoy a comforting dinner 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

• Assemble the stuffed shells but do not bake them.
• Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• If frozen, thaw completely in the fridge first.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Remove the foil during the last few minutes if you want a crispy top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Stuffed Shells:

Can I use different vegetables in my Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! You can customize your filling with any vegetables you like. Consider adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I make Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free?

To make these Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free, simply use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells and check your marinara sauce for gluten content. It’s that easy!

Can I prepare Vegan Stuffed Shells in advance?

Yes! You can assemble your Vegan Stuffed Shells ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer as mentioned above for a quick meal later.

What is the best way to serve Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Serve your Vegan Stuffed Shells hot out of the oven with fresh basil on top and a side salad for a complete meal.

How long does it take to make Vegan Stuffed Shells?

This recipe takes about 1 hour total—30 minutes for prep and another 30 minutes for baking. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Vegan Stuffed Shells as much as I do! This dish is not only comforting but also packed with flavor and nutrition that everyone in your family will love. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how they turn out for you!

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