Vegan Stuffed Shells

Name: Vegan Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 (12-ounce) package of jumbo pasta shells; 1 (16-ounce) block of extra-firm tofu, pressed; 1 medium yellow onion, roughly chopped; 5 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ cup of packed fresh basil leaves; 2 teaspoons of dried oregano; 2 teaspoons of salt; ¾ teaspoon of ground black pepper; ¼ teaspoon of red chili pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast; Juice of 1 medium lemon; 1 cup of packed spinach leaves; 1 (25-ounce) jar of flavorful marinara sauce, divided; ½ cup of vegan cheese shreds (optional); Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Recipe By:

Martha

Posted:

February 8, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Stuffed Shells

Vegan Stuffed Shells are a comforting dish that brings everyone to the table! They’re rich and indulgent, making them a perfect choice for family meals or special occasions. Imagine creamy, flavorful filling stuffed inside warm pasta shells, all swimming in delicious marinara sauce. It’s hard to resist! Not only do they taste fantastic, but these shells are also packed with nutrients, flavor, and texture, making every bite enjoyable. Plus, you can easily modify the filling to suit your personal taste. Want more spice? You can add chili flakes. Prefer a different herb? Fresh parsley or thyme will work! What’s great is that the preparation is simple and stress-free, making them great for busy weeknight dinners, too!

Jump to:

What is a Vegan Stuffed Shells

So, what exactly are Vegan Stuffed Shells? They’re essentially jumbo pasta shells filled with a delicious vegan ricotta filling, all topped off with marinara sauce. In this recipe, I use extra-firm tofu, which gives the filling a wonderful, creamy texture. You won’t even miss the cheese! The healthy ingredients create a meal that’s bursting with nutrients while still feeling indulgent. When you compare these plant-based delights to traditional stuffed shells, the difference is clear: you’re getting a dish that’s not only satisfying but also aligned with a healthier eating style. Trust me; once you try these, you’ll fall in love with this vegan twist on a classic favorite!

Ingredients for Vegan Stuffed Shells

Gather these ingredients:

1 (12-ounce) package of jumbo pasta shells
1 (16-ounce) block of extra-firm tofu, pressed
1 medium yellow onion, roughly chopped
5 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup of packed fresh basil leaves
2 teaspoons of dried oregano
2 teaspoons of salt
¾ teaspoon of ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon of red chili pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast
Juice of 1 medium lemon
1 cup of packed spinach leaves
1 (25-ounce) jar of flavorful marinara sauce, divided
½ cup of vegan cheese shreds (optional)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Vegan Ricotta Filling

Combine Ingredients in Food Processor

Start by making the vegan ricotta filling. In a food processor, blend the pressed tofu, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, optional chili flakes, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice until the ingredients are partially mixed. You don’t want it to be completely smooth; the texture is part of the charm.

Add Spinach

Next, gently fold in the fresh spinach. This addition boosts the nutrient profile while adding a freshness that brightens the filling. Pulse a few more times, just enough to combine it all nicely. The result should be a vibrant, textured filling that makes your stuffed shells irresistible.

Cooking the Jumbo Pasta Shells

Boil Pasta Shells

Now, let’s cook those pasta shells. In a large pot filled with boiling water, cook the shells according to the package instructions. Once they’re done, be sure to drain them well, then rinse with cold water. This helps stop the cooking process and ensures your pasta stays firm for stuffing.

Assembling the Vegan Stuffed Shells

Prepare the Baking Dish

Before you start stuffing, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a 9 x 13 inch baking dish and pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom. This will help keep the shells moist as they bake.

Stuff the Shells

Grab your prepared filling and start filling each pasta shell. Gently press the filling in, making sure each shell gets a generous amount. Place the stuffed shells snugly in the baking dish, keeping them close but not overcrowded.

Add Remaining Sauce

Once all the shells are filled, drizzle the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the stuffed shells. If you want, sprinkle some vegan cheese shreds on top for a cheesy finish. It’s an optional step, but it adds another layer of flavor and some delightful melting action.

Baking Vegan Stuffed Shells

Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes. This helps steam the shells and keep everything moist.

Uncover and Continue Baking

After the first 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Bake for another 20 minutes. This time helps to melt the cheese, if you used it, and gives the tops a lovely golden-brown color. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are bubbling and your kitchen smells heavenly!

Serving Suggestions

To serve, arrange a delightful plate of your Vegan Stuffed Shells alongside a fresh side salad. This simple addition creates a balanced meal that’s both light and satisfying. If you’re in the mood for a feast, pair it with some warm, garlic bread. Trust me; it’s a match made in flavor heaven!

Tips for Success

Always use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Fresh basil really elevates the dish!
Be mindful not to overprocess the ricotta filling; it should have some texture rather than being completely smooth.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize your Vegan Stuffed Shells! Swap in different greens like kale or arugula for a different taste. Or, try various marinara sauces. Spicy arrabbiata can give a fun kick!

Storage Tips

Have leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the oven instead of the microwave for the best texture. A quick 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) usually does the trick!

Pairing Ideas

For a drink, a crisp white wine or sparkling water pairs beautifully. And if you’re looking for something extra nutritious, complement your meal with a side of roasted vegetables. They balance the flavors perfectly!

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Vegan Stuffed Shells?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled dish for up to three months. Just remember to bake it straight from frozen, adding some extra cooking time.

2. What can I use instead of tofu?
If tofu isn’t your thing, consider using cashew cream or store-bought vegan ricotta. Both offer a unique texture and flavor that’ll still taste great!

3. How spicy are these Vegan Stuffed Shells?
The spice level can definitely be adjusted. You can simply leave out the red chili flakes or add more if you like it hot!

4. Are these Vegan Stuffed Shells gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, switch to gluten-free pasta shells and ensure your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat!

Enjoy these delicious Vegan Stuffed Shells for a meal that’s satisfying and nutritious. The blend of rich flavors and creamy texture makes this dish a favorite for family dinners or gatherings. Don’t hesitate to infuse it with your favorite spices and ingredients to make it truly your own!

More Easy Lunch & Dinner ideas Recipes:

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

Vegan Stuffed Shells

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Stuffed Shells

What is a Vegan Stuffed Shells

Ingredients for Vegan Stuffed Shells