If you love sushi but want something warm, comforting, and super easy to make, you are going to adore this Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe. It’s like a deconstructed sushi roll transformed into a delightful casserole that’s gooey, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with friends or family. Each bite delivers tender baked salmon mixed with creamy, spicy goodness, nestled atop savory sushi rice seasoned just right. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals for busy nights or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this vibrant Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe, the ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential. Each element plays a key role: from the fluffy sushi rice providing a hearty base, to the creamy mix of mayo and cream cheese adding that luscious texture, and of course, the fresh salmon bringing a rich, meaty flavor. Plus, the furikake and sauces add those final bursts of color and umami that make this dish truly stand out.
- White rice (4 cups cooked): Use short-grain sushi rice for that perfect sticky texture every time.
- Salmon (1 lb): Fresh or thawed, this forms the star protein that keeps the bake hearty and flavorful.
- Cream cheese (½ cup): Adds a creamy richness that balances the spiciness beautifully.
- Japanese mayo (½ cup plus extra drizzle): Creamy with a hint of sweetness, it blends perfectly with the salmon.
- Sriracha (2 tbsp plus drizzle): For that signature spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds.
- Eel sauce (½ cup): Sweet and savory, this glossy sauce elevates the dish with a wonderful glaze and extra layers of flavor.
- Furikake (¼ cup): A crunchy, savory sprinkle of seaweed and sesame seeds that adds texture and color.
- Green onions (2, sliced): Fresh and crisp, these brighten up the bake as a finishing touch.
- Rice vinegar (2 tsp): Optional but perfect for seasoning the sushi rice with a subtle tang.
- Sugar (¼ tsp): Balances the acidity of the vinegar if seasoning the rice.
- Salt (¼ tsp): Enhances all the flavors, especially in the rice seasoning.
- Roasted seaweed: Great for scooping and wrapping bites of the sushi bake.
- Cucumbers and avocado (sliced): Add freshness and creaminess when serving.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Lightly season the salmon with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder — this simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor without overpowering it. Place the salmon on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes until it flakes easily and reaches that perfect tenderness. This step sets the foundation of moist and flavorful fish that will shine in your sushi bake.
Step 2: Mix the Spicy Salmon Topping
While the salmon bakes, combine the gently baked salmon with Japanese mayo, cream cheese, and sriracha in a bowl. This creamy, spicy mix is what makes this Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe so irresistible. The cream cheese adds a luscious texture, while the sriracha brings that signature heat that makes every bite exciting.
Step 3: Assemble the Sushi Bake
Preheat your oven to 450°F to get ready for the final bake. In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, layer the cooked sushi rice evenly, then sprinkle the furikake on top for that classic umami crunch and seaweed flavor. Spread the spicy salmon mixture over the rice in an even layer. For extra flavor and visual appeal, drizzle sriracha, Japanese mayo, and eel sauce across the top. Save a bit of eel sauce to serve on the side. Finish with a little more furikake sprinkled over everything for texture and color.
Step 4: Bake and Broil
Bake the assembled sushi bake for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the topping to heat through. Then, switch to broil for about 3 minutes to toast the top until it’s golden and slightly crispy. Keep a close eye while broiling to avoid burning—this finishing touch adds that delightful toasty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top to add a fresh, zesty note. Present your Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe alongside roasted seaweed sheets, crisp cucumber slices, creamy avocado, extra spicy mayo, and the remaining eel sauce for dipping. This dish is made for sharing, and assembling your own bites with these accompaniments makes the experience even more fun.
How to Serve Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions and furikake are essential garnishes that bring color, zest, and texture to this warm sushi bake. They brighten the dish and give it a subtle crunch, perfectly balancing the creamy, rich salmon topping.
Side Dishes
Serve with cool, crisp cucumber slices and avocado to add refreshing contrast and creaminess. Roasted seaweed sheets make excellent scoops for the sushi bake, giving that authentic handheld sushi feel. A drizzle or small bowl of extra spicy mayo and eel sauce on the side offers a dip option for those craving even more flavor explosions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn this casserole into individual servings by baking it in small ramekins or personal-sized dishes. You can also serve it layered in glass cups for a sushi parfait look, allowing those vibrant layers to shine. No matter how you present it, the combination of colors and textures will wow your guests and make the meal feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for next-day meals or snacks. Just cover tightly to maintain moisture.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze this dish, portion it out into freezer-safe containers before baking to maintain the best texture upon reheating. Frozen sushi bake can last up to 1 month, but freshly baked is always preferred for optimum flavor and creaminess.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in an oven set to 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the distinct textures of the rice and salmon topping. A quick broil for a minute or two at the end helps to revive the toasty surface.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While salmon is classic and delicious, you can substitute with cooked tuna, crab meat, or even cooked shrimp to make your own twist on the Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure to use gluten-free eel sauce and check all condiments for gluten-containing ingredients. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish adaptable.
How spicy is this sushi bake?
The heat level depends on how much sriracha you add. You can easily adjust the spiciness to your liking by adding more or less sriracha, or serving extra spicy mayo on the side for those who love a bigger kick.
Can I prepare the sushi rice seasoning in advance?
Definitely! Mixing the sushi rice seasoning with vinegar, sugar, and salt can be done ahead and refrigerated. It helps the flavors meld nicely, so your rice tastes perfectly balanced every time.
What is the best way to serve this dish for a crowd?
This Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe is perfect for gatherings—serve it buffet-style with all the garnishes and sides arrayed so everyone can customize their own bites. Provide plenty of roasted seaweed sheets for scooping to keep things interactive and fun!
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe is such a joyful and delicious way to enjoy sushi flavors in a warm, comforting format that’s surprisingly easy to pull together. Whether for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings creamy, spicy, and savory elements into perfect harmony. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and make it one of your own favorite dishes to share with loved ones.
PrintSpicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe
Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake is a comforting and easy-to-make casserole inspired by sushi rolls. Combining layers of seasoned sushi rice, tender baked salmon mixed with creamy mayo and sriracha, and topped with furikake and eel sauce, this dish brings warm, gooey flavors perfect for sushi lovers seeking a hassle-free bake.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 33 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese Fusion
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups white rice, cooked (short-grain sushi rice)
- 1 lb salmon
- ½ cup cream cheese
- ½ cup Japanese mayo (+ extra for drizzling)
- 2 tbsp sriracha (+ extra for drizzling)
- ½ cup eel sauce (for drizzling & serving)
- ¼ cup furikake
- 2 green onions, sliced
Sushi Rice Seasoning (optional)
- 2 tsp rice vinegar
- ¼ tsp sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
Serving Suggestions
- Roasted seaweed
- Cucumbers, sliced
- Avocado, sliced
- Spicy mayo
- Eel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Sushi Rice: Cook 4 cups of short-grain sushi rice according to package instructions. If desired, season the cooked rice with a mixture of 2 tsp rice vinegar, ¼ tsp sugar, and ¼ tsp salt, gently folding to combine. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Bake the Salmon: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly season the salmon with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Place it on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until cooked through and flaky. Allow to cool slightly.
- Mix Salmon Topping: In a bowl, flake the baked salmon and combine it with ½ cup Japanese mayo, ½ cup cream cheese, and 2 tbsp sriracha. Mix well until creamy and evenly blended.
- Assemble the Sushi Bake: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spread an even layer of seasoned sushi rice. Sprinkle ¼ cup furikake evenly over the rice. Spread the salmon mixture over the furikake layer. Drizzle additional sriracha, mayo, and ½ cup eel sauce over the top, reserving some eel sauce for serving. Sprinkle more furikake on top for flavor and texture.
- Bake and Broil: Bake the assembled dish for 10 minutes. Then switch the oven to broil and broil for 3 minutes until the top is toasted and slightly bubbly. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle sliced green onions on top. Serve warm with roasted seaweed, sliced cucumbers, avocado slices, spicy mayo, and the reserved eel sauce on the side. Enjoy your comforting spicy salmon sushi bake!
Notes
- Use short-grain sushi rice for authentic texture and stickiness.
- Adjust sriracha quantity to control spiciness level.
- Furikake adds a delicious umami crunch; don’t skip it.
- Broiling briefly is key for a crispy, toasty top layer.
- This dish is best served immediately but can be refrigerated and reheated gently.