There’s something about stuffed shells that just feels a little extra, in the best way. You’ve got the creamy, garlicky filling, the saucy, bubbly goodness—it’s comfort food, but with just enough flair to make it feel special. These vegan stuffed shells deliver all of that without being complicated, with a creamy tofu ricotta filling that comes together in minutes and marinara that ties it all together like a big, warm, carby hug.
Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or putting together a dish for guests, this recipe has you covered. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and satisfying in that comforting, hearty kind of way. Serve it straight out of the baking dish, pass around some garlic bread, and let the cozy vibes take care of the rest.
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a dish that feels fancy but is secretly simple. These vegan stuffed shells are creamy, saucy, and comforting in all the right ways—and they’re guaranteed to make you look like you’ve got it all together (even if you definitely just pulled them out of the oven in your pajamas). From cozy weeknights to hosting friends, this recipe is ready to shine whenever you are. Here’s why you and everyone else will love them:
Here’s what makes these vegan stuffed shells so good: simple, humble ingredients coming together to create something that feels like it belongs in a restaurant but is totally doable in your own kitchen. Here are the key players:
These vegan stuffed shells are endlessly adaptable, so you can make them just the way you like. Here are a few easy ways to switch things up:
Making these vegan stuffed shells might sound fancy, but the truth is, they’re as straightforward as it gets. A little bit of boiling, blending, and baking, and you’ve got yourself a bubbling tray of cozy, creamy perfection. Here’s what you’ll do. For full recipe details, scroll to the end of this post!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells – Boil a big pot of salted water, toss in your jumbo shells, and cook them until just al dente. This is your moment to channel your inner pasta perfectionist—don’t let them get mushy, because they’ll keep cooking in the oven. Once they’re ready, drain, rinse with cold water (to keep them from sticking), and lay them out on a baking sheet.
Step 2: Make the Vegan Ricotta – In your food processor, pulse tofu, onions, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, red chili pepper flakes, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice until you’ve got a mixture that’s semi-mixed but still has some texture.
Toss in the spinach, and give it a few pulses to mix, taking care not to overmix.
This is what you’re going for. You want pretty speckles, not green ricotta!
Step 3: Stuff the Shells – Use a small spoon to scoop the ricotta into each shell, or go pro with a piping bag if you have one handy. They don’t need to look perfect—just aim for “stuffed and delicious,” and you’re good to go.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake – Spread a generous layer of marinara across the bottom of your baking dish.
Then arrange the stuffed shells snugly, open side up.
Step 5: Final layers – Pour the remaining marinara over the top.
Sprinkle with vegan cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and let it bake another 20 until everything is bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy – Garnish your shells with fresh basil for that extra pop of color and flavor. These are best served straight from the baking dish—family-style, cozy, and a little rustic.
These hearty, cozy stuffed shells are practically begging for the perfect sidekick to complete the meal. Whether you’re going classic or getting a little fancy, these serving ideas will take your dinner to the next level:
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the recipe as directed, cover the baking dish tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to cook, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure they’re heated through.
Absolutely! Store-bought vegan ricotta, like Kite Hill or our homemade ricotta recipe, works beautifully if you’re short on time. Just give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if needed (a little extra salt or lemon juice can go a long way).
You can mix sautéed spinach, kale, or even finely chopped broccoli into the ricotta filling for extra greens. Roasted veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or butternut squash also make great additions—just layer them under or over the shells for an easy upgrade.
If you make this vegan stuffed shells recipe, please leave a star rating and let me know what you think in the comments below! I love reading your comments!
Leave a Comment
I have used your recipe a few times and every time it is lovely. I like to make caramelized onions and roasted garlic.
Can we make this a day ahead?
Can’t wait to try it.
Absolutely! You can make them a few days ahead even!
The tofu ricotta is easy to make and they are a major crowd favorite!!
These look delightful and I can already smell the shells baking in the oven!
These are a favorite in our home!
Loveee it! Looks so delicious!! I’m so excited to make this recipe 🙂
Incredibly creamy and rich! You’ll never miss the dairy ricotta cheese in this recipe. My hubby is a cheese addict (working on helping him out of this!) and he still loved this recipe. It’s amazing how much tofu cheese these shells hold and the fresh basil really makes this recipe sing. I can’t wait to share this recipe with the Italian side of my family. So easy, super tasty and such a great twist on the classic. YUM!
These shells have been a family favorite for some time. They are easy and fairly quick to assemble. They are an elegant and flavorful dish.
I love that these are way easier to make than other stuffed shells I’ve tried! Yet they are still super flavorful and absolutely delicious. Okay, I may need to go make another batch, now I’m hungry just thinking about them!! Definitely give them a try 🙂
I adore these stuffed shells! They are the perfect alternative to lasagna when you’re feeling a little lazy and you crave Italian food! The tofu ricotta is to die for! Please give it a try!