Love sushi but want something warm and comforting? This Salmon Sushi Bake has all the flavors you crave in an easy, scoopable casserole—perfect for sharing! Imagine creamy, savory salmon mixed with sushi rice, a spicy kick of Sriracha, and a crispy, golden topping. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this dish is a must-try!
Ingredients and Preparation Steps
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious baked sushi dish:
Ingredients
- Salmon & Seasoning: 1 ½ lbs salmon fillet, 1 ½ tsp kosher salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp lemon pepper, ¼ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp paprika, 2 tsp olive oil
- Sushi Rice: 2 cups sushi rice (rinsed), 2 ¾ cups water, 2 tsp rice vinegar
- Mix-ins: 8 oz imitation crab (shredded), 8 oz cream cheese (softened), 1 cup Kewpie mayonnaise (divided), 3 tbsp Sriracha (divided), 2 tsp soy sauce
- Toppings: 3 large sheets nori (crushed), 2 tsp furikake (optional), 2 tsp everything bagel seasoning, 2 tsp lime juice, 2 sliced green onions, 1 avocado (diced)
Step 1: Bake the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the salmon on the sheet and season it with salt, black pepper, lemon pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Drizzle with olive oil, then bake for 10-12 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily. Once done, let it cool slightly, then flake it into small pieces. Reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Cook the Sushi Rice
In a saucepan, combine the rinsed sushi rice, water, and the remaining salt. Bring it to a boil, stir once, then cover and let it cook on low for 12-14 minutes until tender. Stir in the rice vinegar and allow it to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, mix the flaked salmon, shredded imitation crab, cream cheese, ½ cup Kewpie mayo, 1 ½ tbsp Sriracha, and soy sauce until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Sushi Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. Spread the sushi rice evenly in the dish and sprinkle crushed nori and furikake over it. Then, layer the salmon mixture on top and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Mix the remaining mayonnaise, Sriracha, and lime juice, then drizzle over the bake. Top with sliced green onions and diced avocado for extra freshness.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
For the best experience, scoop a spoonful onto a roasted nori sheet and enjoy sushi-style!
The Best Time to Savor Your Irresistible Salmon Sushi Bake
This creamy, savory dish is perfect for:
- Family Dinners: A fun and interactive meal everyone can enjoy.
- Game Nights: Serve as a scoopable snack with crispy seaweed sheets.
- Potlucks & Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make ahead.
- Meal Prep: Store leftovers for an easy lunch or dinner.
Want more comforting meals? Try our Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole or Baked Protein Oats for a nutritious twist!
Frequently Asked Questions About Salmon Sushi Bake
Can I use fresh crab instead of imitation crab?
Yes! Fresh crab adds a more authentic seafood flavor. Just be sure to shred it finely before mixing.
What’s the best rice to use for sushi bake?
Sushi rice (short-grain rice) is best because it’s sticky and holds the layers together well. Avoid using long-grain rice.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap out cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative like cashew-based cream cheese or omit it altogether for a lighter version.
What can I serve with salmon sushi bake?
Pair it with a side of miso soup, edamame, or a fresh cucumber salad for a well-rounded meal!
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave in short bursts.
For more sushi-inspired recipes, check out this classic Salmon Sushi Bake from AllRecipes.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Salmon Sushi Bake
Want to take your Salmon Sushi Bake to the next level? Follow these expert tips to achieve the best results:
- Use High-Quality Salmon: Fresh, wild-caught salmon delivers the best flavor. If using frozen salmon, thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning.
- Don’t Overbake: Overcooked salmon can become dry. Remove it from the oven as soon as it flakes easily with a fork.
- Season Your Rice Well: Adding rice vinegar after cooking gives the rice its signature sushi flavor. Let it cool slightly before assembling.
- Customize the Spice Level: Love heat? Add extra Sriracha or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicier kick.
- Layer for the Best Texture: Spreading crushed nori over the rice before adding the salmon mixture enhances the umami flavor.
- Use a Hot Oven for a Crispy Finish: Baking at 400°F (200°C) helps achieve a golden, slightly crispy top layer.
- Garnish Before Serving: Add fresh green onions, avocado, and a final drizzle of spicy mayo right before serving for the best flavor and presentation.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Have leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Salmon Sushi Bake while keeping it delicious:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the rice and cream cheese can change when thawed.
- Reheating in the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Reheating in the Microwave: Heat in short 30-second bursts, stirring between intervals to ensure even heating.
- Reheating with an Air Fryer: For a crispier top, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
Perfect Pairings for Salmon Sushi Bake
Complete your meal with these delicious sides and drinks that complement the creamy, savory flavors of this Salmon Sushi Bake:
- Miso Soup: A warm, umami-rich soup balances the richness of the sushi bake.
- Edamame: Lightly salted and steamed, edamame adds a refreshing contrast.
- Cucumber Salad: A crisp and tangy cucumber salad with sesame dressing enhances the dish.
- Roasted Seaweed Sheets: Use them to scoop up the sushi bake for an authentic sushi experience.
- Pickled Ginger: Cleanses the palate between bites and adds a zesty touch.
- Bubble Tea: A sweet, refreshing drink pairs well with the creamy, spicy flavors.
Looking for more delicious recipes? Try our Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole or Baked Protein Oats for a sweet and savory balance!
Now that you have this irresistible Salmon Sushi Bake recipe, it’s time to give it a try! Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.
Have you tried this recipe? We’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below and let us know how it turned out. Did you add any fun twists? Maybe a little extra spice or a unique topping?
Creative Serving Ideas
- Sushi-Style Bites: Serve with roasted seaweed sheets and scoop up the bake for a handheld sushi experience.
- Sushi Bake Bowls: Serve over a bed of extra sushi rice and top with fresh cucumbers and radishes.
- Party-Style Appetizer: Portion into small ramekins for individual servings at a gathering.
Looking for more delicious and comforting meals? Check out our Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole and Baked Protein Oats for more mouthwatering ideas.
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Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!
Print
Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
- Yield: 8
Description
Love sushi but want something warm and comforting? This Salmon Sushi Bake has all the flavors you crave in an easy, scoopable casserole—perfect for sharing!
Ingredients
– 1 ½ lbs salmon fillet
– 1 ½ tsp kosher salt, divided
– ¼ tsp black pepper
– ½ tsp lemon pepper
– ¼ tsp garlic powder
– ¼ tsp paprika
– 2 tsp olive oil
– 2 cups sushi rice, rinsed
– 2 ¾ cups water
– 2 tsp rice vinegar
– 8 oz imitation crab, shredded
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup Kewpie mayonnaise, divided
– 3 tbsp Sriracha, divided
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 3 large sheets nori, crushed
– 2 tsp furikake (optional)
– 2 tsp everything bagel seasoning
– 2 tsp lime juice
– 2 sliced green onions
– 1 avocado, diced
Instructions
1. First, preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment. Place salmon on the sheet, season with salt, pepper, lemon pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, then drizzle with olive oil.
2. Next, bake for 10-12 minutes until the salmon flakes easily. Let cool slightly, then flake into small pieces. Reduce oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
3. Meanwhile, cook the sushi rice: In a saucepan, combine rice, water, and remaining salt. Bring to a boil, stir once, then cover and cook on low for 12-14 minutes until tender. Stir in rice vinegar and let cool.
4. After that, mix the flaked salmon, crab, cream cheese, ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 ½ tbsp Sriracha, and soy sauce in a bowl.
5. Then, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread rice evenly in the dish, then sprinkle crushed nori and furikake over it. Spread the salmon mixture on top and sprinkle with everything seasoning.
6. Finally, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes until golden around the edges. Mix the remaining mayonnaise, Sriracha, and lime juice, then drizzle over the bake. Top with green onions and avocado before serving.
Notes
For the ultimate bite, scoop a spoonful onto a roasted seaweed sheet and enjoy sushi-style!
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Healthy & Lifestyle
Nutrition
- Calories: 649
- Fat: 50g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 25g