When you’re craving comfort food that’s rich in flavor, packed with protein, and completely satisfying—without relying on meat—these High Protein Vegetarian Stuffed Shells are exactly what you need. Loaded with creamy cheeses, iron-rich spinach, and robust Italian seasonings, this dish is a showstopper for vegetarians, flexitarians, and anyone looking for a wholesome, filling meal.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, Sunday meal prep, or even a holiday potluck, this recipe is a great way to serve up a classic Italian-style dish with a nutritious twist. With the help of cottage cheese (yes, trust us!), mozzarella, Parmesan, and eggs, these shells deliver over-the-top creaminess with impressive protein content—without a single ounce of meat.

Why You’ll Love These Vegetarian Stuffed Shells

This recipe is for anyone who:

Wants a hearty vegetarian dinner that feels indulgent yet nourishing
Needs a protein-rich meal that satisfies meatless cravings
Loves Italian flavors but wants something different from lasagna
Is meal prepping for the week and needs a freezer-friendly recipe
Has a crowd to feed and wants a budget-friendly yet gourmet-style meal

With minimal hands-on time and a crowd-pleasing flavor profile, this dish is ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks alike.

Ingredient Spotlight

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make these shells unforgettable:

Pasta

36 large pasta shells – The perfect vessel for cheesy, savory filling. Stick to private label or your favorite brand.

The High-Protein Filling

2 large eggs – Help bind the filling and add richness.
¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese – Salty, nutty, and deeply flavorful.
2 cups whipped cottage cheese – The secret weapon: smooth, high in protein, and creamy without being heavy.
8 oz. mozzarella cheese (divided) – Half goes inside, half on top for a perfect cheesy finish.
½ tsp onion powder & ½ tsp garlic powder – For subtle but essential depth.
⅓ tsp each of dried basil and oregano – Classic Italian herbs that round out the flavor.
½ tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp red pepper flakes – A balance of seasoning with just a hint of heat.
10 oz frozen spinach, cooked and drained – Adds fiber, color, and a nutritional punch.

For the Topping

1 jar Classico Fire-Roasted Tomato & Garlic Marinara – Bold, robust, and smoky sauce that complements the cheesy filling beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Shells

Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and allow them to cool slightly before filling. Don’t overcook—slightly firm shells are easier to fill and won’t fall apart.

2. Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, cottage cheese, Parmesan, HALF of the mozzarella, all the seasonings, and the chopped spinach. Stir thoroughly until well mixed and cohesive.

3. Fill the Shells

Use a spoon or piping bag (a zip-top bag with the corner cut off works wonders) to generously stuff each shell with the filling. Set them aside as you go.

4. Assemble for Baking

In a large baking dish, spread 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom. Arrange the filled shells in a single layer over the sauce. Spoon a little marinara over each shell, then sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.

5. Bake or Air Fry

Oven Method:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Air Fryer Method:

Use a small oven-safe dish that fits in your air fryer.
Add a little marinara to the bottom, place 6 shells in, top with cheese and sauce.
Cover with foil and cook at 390°F for 10 minutes.
Remove foil and cook for another 2 minutes to brown the cheese.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large mixing bowl
Spoon or piping bag for filling
Baking dish (9×13” works well)
Aluminum foil
Oven or air fryer
Colander for draining spinach and pasta

Optional: Blender or food processor for smoothing the cottage cheese

Tips & Variations

Ingredient Swaps

Ricotta cheese can replace cottage cheese if preferred, though you’ll lose some protein.
Fresh spinach can be sautéed and chopped instead of frozen.
Add chopped artichokes or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor.

Make It Vegan

Replace eggs with a flax egg substitute.
Use dairy-free mozzarella, parmesan, and cottage cheese alternatives.
Be sure to use egg-free pasta shells.

Add Protein

Sneak in extra protein by mixing in plant-based crumbles, lentils, or tempeh.
Use chickpea pasta shells if you can find them for an added protein boost.

Storage & Reheating

These shells are an excellent make-ahead option and store beautifully:

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze individually portioned shells on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Store up to 2 months.

Perfect Pairings

To elevate your meal, serve these stuffed shells with:

A crisp Caesar salad or arugula and cherry tomato salad
Garlic bread or rosemary focaccia
A glass of Chianti, Pinot Noir, or sparkling water with lemon
Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?

Yes! Ricotta is the traditional choice, but whipped cottage cheese offers a higher protein content with less fat and a similar creamy texture.

Can I make these shells gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just substitute with certified gluten-free pasta shells.

Do I have to cook the spinach first?

Yes, it’s important to cook and drain the spinach thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which could make the filling watery.

Can I freeze these before baking?

Yes! Assemble the shells as instructed, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, add 10–15 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use a different sauce?

Certainly. Try a creamy Alfredo, spicy arrabbiata, or even a homemade roasted red pepper sauce for a fun twist.

Final Thoughts

These High Protein Vegetarian Stuffed Shells are the ultimate feel-good food—classic, cozy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just meal-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and nutrition. With versatile cooking options and endless possibilities for customization, it’s a staple you’ll want to come back to again and again.

High Protein Vegetarian Stuffed Shells

High Protein Vegetarian Stuffed Shells – A Hearty, Cheesy, Meatless Marvel