“Have you ever craved sushi but didn’t want to spend hours mastering the rolling technique?” This is where the magic of my creamy Salmon Sushi Bake comes in—combining the delightful tastes of traditional sushi with the simplicity of a one-pan meal. Imagine cozy layers of perfectly cooked sushi rice mingling with a savory salmon concoction, all crowned with spicy mayo and fresh avocado. This dish not only satisfies your sushi cravings in a fraction of the time, but it also becomes a fantastic weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering. Plus, it’s easily customizable. Whether you prefer swapping in shrimp or tofu or need a gluten-free version, the possibilities are endless. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s get started! Why is this Salmon Sushi Bake a must-try? Easy to make: This dish comes together in one pan, eliminating tedious prep work and making it perfect for busy weeknights. Flavorful layers: With creamy sushi rice and succulent salmon mixed with spicy mayo, every bite is a burst of savory goodness. Versatile: Customize it by swapping salmon for shrimp or even tofu for a satisfying vegetarian option. Quick bake time: Just 10-15 minutes in the oven means you can enjoy this delightful meal without the lengthy sushi-making process. Perfect for gatherings: Serve it up at your next party as an appetizer or main dish, and watch it become a crowd favorite! This Salmon Sushi Bake is destined to impress—try it alongside a refreshing Sushi Bowl or crispy Vegan Sushi for a complete feast! Salmon Sushi Bake Ingredients • Dive into the delightful world of flavors with this easy and creamy Salmon Sushi Bake that’s perfect for any occasion. For the Rice Base Sushi Rice – Rinse well to remove excess starch for less stickiness. Water – Essential for cooking the rice to fluffy perfection. Lite Seasoned Rice Vinegar – Adds a tangy flavor; alternatively, use regular rice vinegar for a milder taste. For the Salmon Mixture Salmon Fillet – Fresh or previously frozen, skin removed, as the main protein source. Imitation Crab Meat – Adds sweetness and texture; can be swapped with crab, shrimp, or omitted for a vegetarian version. Kewpie Mayo – Enhances creaminess; substitute with regular mayo or Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Cream Cheese – Contributes rich creaminess; mascarpone or dairy-free options can be used instead. Sriracha – Adds a kick of heat and can be adjusted to taste. Soy Sauce or Tamari – Provides a salty umami flavor; use tamari for a gluten-free version. Green Onions – Adds a crisp freshness for the topping. For the Sauces Unagi Sauce – Sweet and savory drizzle; eel sauce can also be used as a substitute. Mirin & Sake – Adds depth; substitute with white wine and sugar if necessary. Sugar – Balances flavors in the sauces. Spicy Mayo – For serving, enhancing overall flavor; customize for spiciness preference. For the Toppings Avocado – Adds creaminess and freshness to each bite. Sesame Seeds – Provides a slight crunch and nutty flavor. Cucumber – Offers a refreshing crunch as a topping. Nori Sheets – Great for wrapping and adding a traditional sushi feel. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salmon Sushi Bake Step 1: Prepare Sushi Rice Begin by rinsing 1 ½ cups of sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch. After draining, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before folding in ¼ cup of lite seasoned rice vinegar. Step 2: Make Salmon Mixture While the rice cools, cube 8 ounces of fresh (or previously frozen) salmon fillet and mix it in a bowl with ¼ cup of Kewpie mayo, 4 ounces of cream cheese, 1 tablespoon of sriracha, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Add 2 chopped green onions for extra flavor. Incorporate ingredients well and chill the mixture in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld for about 15 minutes. Step 3: Prepare Unagi Sauce In a small saucepan, combine ¼ cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of mirin, 1 tablespoon of sake, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens into a syrupy consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool while you assemble the bake. Step 4: Make Spicy Mayo For a zesty kick, mix together ¼ cup of mayo, 1 tablespoon of sriracha, and the juice of half a lime in a small bowl. Adjust the sriracha amount based on your preferred spice level. Refrigerate this spicy mayo until ready to serve, enhancing the overall flavor of your creamy Salmon Sushi Bake. Step 5: Assemble the Bake Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Press the cooled sushi rice evenly across the bottom of the dish, ensuring an even layer, and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of furikake seasoning over the rice. Spread the chilled salmon mixture over the rice, smoothing it evenly. Step 6: Bake Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through and the top begins to become golden. For an extra crispy texture, switch on the broiler for the last minute, watching closely to avoid burning. Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes. Step 7: Serve and Garnish Drizzle the warm Salmon Sushi Bake with your prepared unagi sauce and spicy mayo. Finish with fresh toppings such as sliced avocado, sesame seeds, and diced cucumber. Cut into squares, serve with nori sheets for wrapping, and enjoy this vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish with family and friends! What to Serve with Creamy Salmon Sushi Bake Create a delightful dining experience by pairing your salmon sushi bake with these tasty sides and treats. Crispy Edamame: The crunchy texture and slightly salty flavor of edamame complement the creaminess of the sushi bake perfectly. They make for a fun finger food that adds a nutritious boost to the meal. Miso Soup: Rich in umami, this warm soup provides a comforting contrast to the savory sushi bake. With its light broth and soft tofu, it brings a heartwarming touch to your dinner table. Seaweed Salad: Light and refreshing, seaweed salad brings a burst of ocean flavor that pairs beautifully with the salmon. Its chewy texture and tangy dressing enhance the overall dining experience. Apple Cucumber Salad: Refresh your palate with a crisp apple and cucumber salad. The sweet and tart apples offer a delightful contrast to the rich salmon flavors, while the crunchiness keeps things interesting. Grilled Veggies: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add a smoky flavor and vibrant colors to your meal. Their natural sweetness and texture balance the creamy richness of the sushi bake. Ginger Beer: A zesty ginger beer is a wonderful beverage option that cuts through the dish’s creaminess. Its refreshing kick and bubbles add a playful element to your meal. Green Tea Ice Cream: End your meal on a sweet note! The earthy flavor of green tea ice cream perfectly complements the savory tastes of the sushi bake, creating a delicious pairing that’s sure to delight. Explore these pairing options to elevate your creamy salmon sushi bake into an unforgettable meal that everyone will love! Expert Tips for Perfect Salmon Sushi Bake Rinse Rice Well: Always rinse the sushi rice until the water runs clear; this crucial step helps avoid a sticky texture in your Salmon Sushi Bake. Chill the Mixture: Allow the salmon mixture to sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before baking. This helps flavors meld beautifully and enhances taste. Watch the Broiler: If you’re using the broiler for a crispy top, keep a close eye on it. It can quickly turn from golden brown to burnt! Prep Ahead: For a smoother cooking experience, consider prepping your sauces and toppings in advance. This can save you time on busy weeknights. Experiment with Proteins: Don’t hesitate to try different seafood or vegetarian options in the Salmon Sushi Bake. Tofu or shrimp can add a delightful twist! How to Store and Freeze Salmon Sushi Bake Fridge: Store leftover Salmon Sushi Bake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing it to maintain freshness. Freezer: You can freeze the bake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Serving Tip: After reheating, drizzle with additional spicy mayo and garnishes to restore its delightful flavor and presentation! Salmon Sushi Bake Variations Feel free to get creative with your Salmon Sushi Bake and make it truly your own with these fun twists! Seafood Alternatives: Substitute salmon with shrimp, crab, or even tofu to switch things up entirely. Each seafood option brings its unique flavors, while tofu gives a satisfying vegetarian twist. Rice Options: Use jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. Not only does cauliflower rice cut down on carbohydrates, but it also adds a delightful, understated flavor! Spicy Twist: Add Wasabi or extra sriracha for an extra kick of heat. This aromatic flavor can awaken your taste buds and make your dish unforgettable. Herb Infusion: Sprinkle chopped fresh dill or cilantro into the salmon mixture for a refreshing herbal note. Fresh herbs can elevate your Bake and add a vibrant aroma that’s tough to resist. Creamy Alternatives: Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt or a dairy-free option. This maintains the delicious creaminess while catering to different dietary requirements. Topping Options: Experiment with toppings like crunchy fried onions, diced red peppers, or even pickled ginger for a burst of different textures and flavors. Gluten-Free Focus: Ensure a gluten-free experience by using tamari for soy sauce and checking labels on all other ingredients. No need to miss out on this delicious dish! When you’re ready for another delightful meal, consider serving it alongside a vibrant Sushi Bowl or your favorite bright Vegan Sushi for an unforgettable spread! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Salmon Sushi Bakes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the sushi rice and salmon mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For optimal quality, refrigerate the salmon mixture in an airtight container and the sushi rice wrapped in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the sushi rice in the dish, layer the salmon mixture on top, and bake as usual. This way, you’ll enjoy a home-cooked, restaurant-quality Salmon Sushi Bake with minimal effort on busy weeknights! Creamy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe FAQs What type of sushi rice should I use for this Salmon Sushi Bake? Absolutely, the type of sushi rice is important! Use short-grain sushi rice, which is sticky enough to hold together when baked. It’s crucial to rinse the rice well before cooking to remove excess starch, which will help avoid a gummy texture. I often find that rinsing until the water runs clear really keeps the rice fluffy. How should I store leftover Salmon Sushi Bake? For best results, store your leftover Salmon Sushi Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to preserve its freshness and prevent moisture buildup. If you plan to eat it later, just reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready! Can I freeze Salmon Sushi Bake? Yes, you can freeze it! I recommend wrapping leftovers tightly in plastic wrap and then covering them with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This will keep it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through. What if my Salmon Sushi Bake is too dry? If you find that your Salmon Sushi Bake turns out a bit dry, there are a couple of tricks you can use next time. One effective method is to ensure your fish mixture is well-combined with enough creamy ingredients like Kewpie mayo and cream cheese. Additionally, adding a touch more sauce on top before baking can help maintain moisture. If you’re reheating, you can also drizzle some more spicy mayo over it to enhance the creaminess! Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies? Very! To make this Salmon Sushi Bake gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and make sure that all other ingredients (like the mayo) are certified gluten-free. It’s crucial to check labels, especially for dressings and sauces, to ensure they meet your dietary needs. What toppings work best with Salmon Sushi Bake? The more the merrier! While avocado, sesame seeds, and cucumber are fantastic options, you can also get creative with your toppings. Try adding crunchy nori sheets for an authentic touch or even pickled ginger for an extra pop of flavor. These garnishes not only enhance the dish’s taste but also its presentation! Creamy Salmon Sushi Bake: Easy Weeknight Comfort Dish Discover a fast and delicious way to enjoy sushi with this Creamy Salmon Sushi Bake, perfect for busy evenings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsChilling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 6 slicesCourse: SeafoodCuisine: JapaneseCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Rice Base1.5 cups sushi rice Rinse well to remove excess starch2 cups water Essential for cooking the rice0.25 cups lite seasoned rice vinegar Can substitute with regular rice vinegarFor the Salmon Mixture8 ounces salmon fillet Fresh or previously frozen, skin removed0.25 cups Kewpie mayo Enhances creaminess4 ounces cream cheese Can use mascarpone or dairy-free options1 tablespoon sriracha Adjust for preferred spice level1 tablespoon soy sauce Use tamari for gluten-free version2 pieces green onions Chopped, for extra flavorFor the Sauces0.25 cups soy sauce For unagi sauce2 tablespoons mirin1 tablespoon sake1 tablespoon sugar Balances flavors0.25 cups mayo For spicy mayo1 tablespoon sriracha For spicy mayo0.5 pieces lime Juice for spicy mayoFor the Toppings1 pieces avocado Sliced, for garnish1 tablespoon sesame seeds For garnish1 pieces cucumber Diced, for garnish4 sheets nori sheets For serving Equipment 9x13 inch baking dishPotSmall saucepanMixing BowlSpatulaknife Method Step-by-Step InstructionsRinse sushi rice under cold water until water runs clear. Combine rinsed rice and water in a pot. Boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Let rest for 10 minutes, then fold in rice vinegar.Cube salmon and mix with Kewpie mayo, cream cheese, sriracha, and soy sauce in a bowl. Add chopped green onions and chill for 15 minutes.Combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.Mix mayo, sriracha, and lime juice in a bowl for spicy mayo. Adjust spice level if desired.Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare the baking dish and press cooled sushi rice into an even layer. Sprinkle furikake seasoning over rice. Spread salmon mixture over the rice.Bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and golden. Optional: broil for the last minute for extra crispiness.Remove from oven, cool for 10 minutes. Drizzle with unagi sauce and spicy mayo, garnish with avocado, sesame seeds, and cucumber before serving with nori sheets. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg NotesRinse rice well to avoid sticky texture, chill mixed salmon for flavor melding, watch broiler closely to prevent burning, and prep sauces ahead to save time. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
