Vegetarian Stuffed Shells (Without Ricotta) Recipe :A Deliciously Easy Comfort Dish

Why Skip the Ricotta?

While ricotta is a staple in many stuffed shell recipes, some prefer to avoid it due to dietary preferences, texture concerns, or simply wanting a lighter alternative. This recipe uses a blend of creamy alternatives that still provide the rich, luscious texture we love—without the ricotta.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells

• 1 cup cooked spinach (fresh or frozen, well-drained)

• 1 cup sautéed mushrooms, finely chopped

• 1 cup zucchini, finely diced

• 1 cup cooked lentils (for protein and texture)

• 1 cup cottage cheese or silken tofu (as ricotta alternative)

• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

• Fresh basil for garnish

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

   • Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.

   • Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

   • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

   • Sauté the onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.

   • Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

   • Stir in marinara sauce and red pepper flakes (if using).

   • Simmer for 10-15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Make the Filling:

   • In a large bowl, combine cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and lentils.

   • Add cottage cheese or silken tofu, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, oregano, and basil.

   • Mix well until fully combined. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Stuff the Shells:

   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.

   • Fill each pasta shell with a generous amount of the vegetable mixture.

   • Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish.

   • Top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.

5. Bake:

   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh basil.

   • Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells

• Drain Vegetables Well: Excess moisture from spinach or zucchini can make the filling watery. Make sure to drain and pat them dry.

• Use Silken Tofu for Creaminess: If you want a completely dairy-free option, silken tofu provides a creamy texture similar to ricotta.

• Make Ahead: These stuffed shells can be assembled a day in advance and baked when ready to serve.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze vegetarian stuffed shells? A: Absolutely! Assemble the shells without baking, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F for about 45-50 minutes.

Q: What can I use instead of mozzarella? A: Vegan mozzarella or nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option. Regular cheddar or provolone also work.

Q: Can I add more protein? A: Yes! Chickpeas, temper, or extra lentils can be added to the filling for an extra protein boost.

Q: How do I make it gluten-free? A: Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells, readily available in most grocery stores.

Q: What side dishes go well with stuffed shells? A: A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement the dish beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Vegetarian Stuffed Shells recipe without ricotta is a flavorful, satisfying dish that caters to a variety of dietary needs. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutrient-rich vegetables, it's a wholesome meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're serving it for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, these stuffed shells are guaranteed to impress!