Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

Easy to make and packed with flavor, these Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving something delicious, this recipe stands out. With creamy pumpkin filling and nutritious ingredients, these stuffed shells are a delightful twist on a classic dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Filling: The combination of pumpkin puree and spices creates a rich and satisfying filling.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from tofu and nutrients from spinach and cashews, these shells are both tasty and nutritious.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, they fit seamlessly into any meal plan while being plant-based.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance to save time during busy holiday celebrations.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this fun and comforting meal.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Baking dish
• Large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: A must-have for achieving a smooth and creamy filling by blending tofu, cashews, and spices effortlessly.
• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking of your stuffed shells while providing enough space for all 18 shells without crowding.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 16 ounces firm tofu (pressed)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons, depending on size)
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 10 ounces frozen spinach (defrosted and pressed)
• ½ cup raw cashews (soaked, rinsed, and drained)

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• ½ cup finely chopped shallot (about 2 large shallots)
• 3-4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 15 ounces pumpkin puree
• 1 teaspoon vegetable bouillon
• ½ cup water
• ⅓ cup nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar (or more, to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• ½ teaspoon salt & pepper (or more, to taste)

For Assembly

• 1 12-ounce package jumbo shells
• ¼ cup seasoned breadcrumbs (optional)

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu Filling

1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture.
2. In a food processor, combine the pressed tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, dried oregano, sea salt, spinach, and soaked cashews.
3. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil.
2. Sauté chopped shallots until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in pumpkin puree, vegetable bouillon, water, nutritional yeast, vinegar, smoked paprika, sage, salt & pepper. Mix well.

Step 3: Cook the Jumbo Shells

1. Boil water in a large pot with salt.
2. Cook jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the shells carefully to avoid breakage.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a layer of sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Fill each shell with the tofu mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
4. Arrange filled shells in the baking dish over the sauce.
5. Pour remaining sauce on top of filled shells and sprinkle with breadcrumbs if desired.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove foil for an additional 10 minutes to brown slightly before serving.

Enjoy your Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells as a hearty main course that everyone will adore!

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

These Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells make for a delightful main course, ideal for any festive gathering. Here are some creative ways to present and enhance the dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the stuffed shells.
• Caesar Salad: A vegan Caesar salad adds crunch and zest, balancing the creamy pumpkin filling.

Add a Flavorful Sauce

• Marinara Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought marinara sauce over the shells enhances their taste and presentation.
• Béchamel Sauce: A vegan béchamel brings creaminess that pairs well with the pumpkin stuffing.

Include Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up any extra sauce.
• Focaccia: This herbed bread adds texture and flavor, perfect for a holiday meal.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Garnish your dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

To ensure your Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells turn out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Press the Tofu Well: Make sure to remove excess moisture from tofu for a firmer, more flavorful filling.
• Season Generously: Adjust seasonings like salt or smoked paprika according to your taste preferences for maximum flavor.
• Use Fresh Spinach: If possible, opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen for a brighter taste and better texture.
• Cook Jumbo Shells Al Dente: Cook the pasta until just firm; this prevents them from becoming too soft when baked.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices such as nutmeg or thyme for an extra kick in flavor.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells can be complemented wonderfully by various side dishes. Here are some options to consider.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots add color and nutrition; simply toss with olive oil and roast until tender.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon dressing provides a nutritious contrast.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic create comfort food vibes that pair nicely with stuffed shells.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a vibrant green addition that balances the dish’s richness.
5. Crispy Kale Chips: These are a crunchy snack option that adds texture and nutrients alongside your main course.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: For an extra dose of vegetables, serve bell peppers stuffed with grains and spices as an additional side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells can be fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring tofu preparation: Not pressing the tofu properly can result in a watery filling. Ensure you press the tofu to remove excess moisture for a creamier texture.
• Overcooking the shells: Cooking the jumbo shells for too long can make them fragile. Follow the package instructions closely and check for al dente.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting your filling before stuffing can lead to bland flavors. Adjust seasonings based on your preference for a more delicious dish.
• Not defrosting spinach adequately: Failing to fully press and drain the spinach can result in a soggy filling. Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
• Using stale breadcrumbs: Old breadcrumbs may not add the desired crunch. Always check for freshness before using them as a topping.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

• Place shells in a freezer-safe container or bag before freezing.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a bit of water to a skillet, cover, and steam over low heat until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! While jumbo shells are traditional, you can use any large pasta that holds filling well.

How do I customize my filling?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or swap out spices based on your taste preferences.

Are Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free shells available at most grocery stores.

How do I ensure my shells don’t stick together?

Drizzle olive oil over cooked shells before storing them to prevent sticking.

Can I prepare Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Pumpkin Stuffed Shells are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make them perfect for any occasion. They are versatile, allowing you to customize fillings and toppings according to your taste. Whether you’re preparing them for holidays or an everyday meal, these stuffed shells are sure to impress!