If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting vegetarian meal, this Vegetarian Skillet Stuffed Shells recipe is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings. Combining rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and hearty pasta shells, this one-skillet recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, these stuffed shells will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy: Made in just one skillet, this dish reduces cleanup time and simplifies the cooking process.
Flavorful & Filling: The combination of cheeses, spinach, and a robust marinara sauce creates a hearty, satisfying meal.
Customizable: You can adjust the filling to include more veggies, different cheeses, or even plant-based meat alternatives for added texture.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether you’re serving your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is bound to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
For the Shells:
12-16 jumbo pasta shells
1 cup ricotta cheese (or vegan ricotta for a dairy-free option)
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
2 cups fresh spinach (lightly chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
For the Sauce:
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta Shells:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan (or nutritional yeast), chopped spinach, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Set the filling aside.
Make the Sauce:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
Once the oil is warm, add the marinara sauce and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Stuff the Shells:
Carefully spoon the ricotta-spinach mixture into each cooked pasta shell.
Arrange the stuffed shells directly on top of the simmering marinara sauce in the skillet.
Top and Bake:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the stuffed shells.
Cover the skillet and cook over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to bubble.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Tips and Variations:
Add More Veggies: If you want to bulk up the dish with extra vegetables, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the filling.
Make It Vegan: Swap out the ricotta and mozzarella for your favorite plant-based cheese alternatives. Vegan ricotta and shredded cheese work beautifully in this recipe.
Spice It Up: For those who like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes to the sauce or even some diced jalapeños to the filling.
Meal Prep Friendly: You can assemble the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just add an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time when reheating.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 360 kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 7g
This Vegetarian Skillet Stuffed Shells recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and comfort. The tender pasta shells stuffed with creamy ricotta and spinach filling are nestled in a rich marinara sauce, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or weekend indulgence. The one-skillet method also cuts down on dishes, so you can enjoy a cozy, delicious meal without the hassle.
Give this recipe a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular on your dinner rotation!
Pairing Suggestions:
When serving Vegetarian Skillet Stuffed Shells, you might want to pair it with complementary sides and beverages to complete the meal experience. Here are some suggestions:
Side Dishes:
Garlic Bread: A classic choice, the crunchy texture and buttery, garlicky goodness of a slice of garlic bread perfectly complements the soft, cheesy stuffed shells.
Simple Green Salad: Balance the richness of the dish with a fresh green salad made with mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add a bit of extra nutrition and texture to your plate.
Caesar Salad: The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons in a Caesar salad pair wonderfully with the creamy pasta.
Wine Pairing:
For a glass of wine, a light, fruity red like a Pinot Noir or Chianti will complement the acidity of the marinara sauce and the creaminess of the cheese without overpowering the dish.
If you prefer white wine, a Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Pinot Grigio works well to cut through the richness of the cheese.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks:
A sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime can refresh your palate between bites.
Try pairing with an Italian soda or a mocktail with basil, cucumber, and lemon for a light, herbal flavor that echoes the fresh basil in the dish.
Leftovers and Storage:
One of the best parts of making Vegetarian Skillet Stuffed Shells is that it stores well for later enjoyment. Here’s how to manage leftovers:
To Refrigerate:
Let the stuffed shells cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When ready to eat, reheat the shells in the skillet over low heat or microwave in individual portions. Add a splash of marinara sauce to keep the shells moist as they warm up.
To Freeze:
This recipe is freezer-friendly, making it great for meal prep.
Assemble the stuffed shells without the final layer of mozzarella, cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to cook, transfer the frozen shells to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Then, sprinkle with mozzarella and bake or reheat on the stovetop.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Special Occasions:
Though it’s easy to make, these skillet stuffed shells can be an excellent option for special occasions. Here’s why:
Ideal for Dinner Parties:
Its vibrant presentation and robust flavor make this dish a hit at gatherings, whether you’re hosting a vegetarian-friendly dinner party or simply serving it at a family celebration.
Comfort Food with a Twist:
Stuffed shells are a well-loved classic, and this vegetarian version offers all the satisfaction without the meat. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it both indulgent and healthy.
Make-Ahead for Busy Nights:
If you’re preparing for a holiday meal or a special occasion where time is of the essence, these stuffed shells can be made ahead of time. You can store the shells in the fridge and bake them just before serving.
The Vegetarian Skillet Stuffed Shells recipe is a brilliant option for those who want to savor the traditional comfort of Italian food in a lighter, plant-based way. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish offers a hearty, cheesy goodness that even meat-eaters will love. With minimal cleanup and endless customization options, you can tailor it to your taste and enjoy an effortless yet impressive dinner.
This recipe proves that vegetarian meals can be just as comforting and satisfying as their meat-filled counterparts. Give it a try and get ready to fall in love with this easy-to-make dish!
