Vegan Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Vegan Stuffed Shells! This delightful meal is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these stuffed shells are sure to impress everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe so special is its creamy filling made from wholesome ingredients like cashews and tofu, paired with your favorite marinara sauce. It’s a beautiful blend of textures and tastes that brings a smile to anyone’s face. Plus, it’s plant-based, so it fits perfectly into a variety of dietary preferences!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can whip up this dish in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love these cheesy, saucy shells.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble them in advance and bake when you’re ready to eat!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cashews, tofu, and spinach creates a rich filling that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Options: You can customize them with your favorite ingredients or sauces.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these mouthwatering Vegan Stuffed Shells. You may already have many of these items in your pantry!

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)

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! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the greens: Instead of spinach, try using kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor.
• Add some spice: Mix in red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding garlic powder or Italian herbs to the filling for more depth.
• Change up the sauce: Use pesto or alfredo for a unique twist on traditional marinara.

How to Make Vegan Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your stuffed shells will bake evenly and come out perfectly bubbly.

Step 2: Soak the Cashews

Place your 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 10-15 minutes. Soaking softens the nuts, making them easier to blend into that creamy filling we all love!

Step 3: Cook Your Shells

Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions but aim for about one minute less than recommended. They should be very al dente since they will continue 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 add them to your high-speed blender along with tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and oat milk. Blend on HIGH for 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy. Remember to scrape down the sides as needed! Taste it—if you feel something’s missing, adjust seasoning accordingly.

Step 5: Mix in Spinach

Pour that delicious ricotta-like mixture into a medium bowl and fold in the drained spinach. This combination not only adds nutrients but also gives our filling fantastic flavor!

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Grab a casserole dish (around 10×7 works great) and spread half of your marinara sauce at the bottom. Take each shell and spoon in the ricotta mixture before placing it snugly into the sauce. Once they’re all nestled in, cover them with the remaining marinara.

Step 7: Add Toppings

If you’d like an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle some dairy-free cheese on top before covering everything with foil.

Step 8: Bake Away!

Pop your covered dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until you see those lovely bubbles coming from underneath!

Step 9: Finish Off with Cheese (Optional)

If you decided to use dairy-free cheese, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking so it can melt beautifully over those stuffed shells.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Once they are out of the oven, feel free to garnish with freshly chopped basil if desired! Serve warm and watch as everyone digs into this comforting plant-based delight!

And there you have it—Vegan Stuffed Shells that promise satisfaction at every bite! Enjoy this dish as part of your weekly rotations; it’s bound to become a family favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Stuffed Shells

Making vegan stuffed shells can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips in your back pocket!

• Soak the Cashews: Soaking raw cashews makes them easier to blend into a creamy texture, ensuring your filling is smooth and rich.
• Adjust the Spinach: If you want to experiment with flavors, try using different greens like kale or Swiss chard. Each option brings its own unique taste and nutrients to the dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Shells: Cooking the pasta shells al dente is crucial because they will continue to cook in the oven. This prevents them from becoming mushy and falling apart.
• Customize Your Marinara: Feel free to spice up your marinara sauce by adding herbs or red pepper flakes for some heat. A little extra flavor goes a long way!
• Make It Ahead: Prepare the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights!

How to Serve Vegan Stuffed Shells

Presentation matters! These vegan stuffed shells can be served in various ways to make them even more appealing to your family and guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of roughly chopped basil adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the dish beautifully.
• Nutritional Yeast: For an additional cheesy flavor without dairy, top your shells with a bit of nutritional yeast before serving.
• Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the overall flavor profile of your meal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread pairs perfectly with stuffed shells, allowing you to soak up every bit of delicious marinara sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad filled with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty stuffed shells.
• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus not only taste great but also add nutrition and vibrancy to your meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli provides a lovely crunch and bright green color that balances well with the creamy stuffed shells.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to impress everyone at your dinner table with your delicious vegan stuffed shells! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

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

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will last for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the assembled shells cool completely.
• Wrap each stuffed shell individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• For frozen shells, remove from the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Alternatively, you can bake them directly from frozen; just add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Stuffed Shells!

Can I use different fillings for my Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. You can add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers, or even try using lentils or chickpeas for added protein.

How do I make Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free?

To make Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free, simply choose gluten-free jumbo shells and ensure that your marinara sauce is also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!

Can I prepare Vegan Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the Vegan Stuffed Shells a day in advance and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.

What can I serve with Vegan Stuffed Shells?

Vegan Stuffed Shells pair beautifully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. You could also consider a light soup as an appetizer!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Vegan Stuffed Shells! They are not only comforting and satisfying but also a fantastic way to enjoy plant-based eating without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your own twists on this recipe—I would love to hear how it turns out for you!