Name: Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Japanese Fusion
Ingredients: 1 cup sushi rice; 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar; 2 tsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 cup furikake seasoning; 8 oz salmon fillets (2 portions); 1 tbsp soy sauce (gluten free if needed or use tamari); 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened); 1/4 cup mayonnaise (Kewpie or regular mayonnaise); 2 tbsp sriracha sauce (or sambal oelek); 1 avocado (sliced or cubed); 1/2 cucumber (sliced or cubed); 2 green onions (sliced); Nori seaweed sheets; More Kewpie mayonnaise; Unagi sauce

If you are craving a delightful fusion that brings together the best of sushi flavors in a warm, comforting dish, this Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe will absolutely sweep you off your feet. Imagine tender flakes of salmon blended with creamy, spicy goodness layered over perfectly seasoned sushi rice, then baked to bubbling perfection. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines ease of preparation with vibrant taste, making it a fantastic choice for both weeknight dinners and casual get-togethers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden cutting board with six small glass bowls arranged around a piece of bright orange salmon fillet on a piece of parchment paper. At the top left is a bowl with white cream cheese, to its right a bowl filled with dark green seaweed and white sesame seeds. Below the cream cheese is a bowl of pale yellow mayonnaise. On the right side, there is a small white bowl with dark soy sauce above a black bowl filled with bright red sauce. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Each element plays a vital role—from the fluffy sushi rice base adding texture, to the creamy, spicy salmon topping bringing that irresistible kick. Freshness and balance make every bite sing.

Sushi rice: Use authentic sushi rice for that perfectly sticky texture essential to the bake.
Rice wine vinegar: Adds subtle tang and helps season the rice brilliantly.
Sugar: Balances acidity with gentle sweetness in the sushi rice.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors to create harmony in the rice.
Furikake seasoning: This Japanese rice topper adds umami flavor and a delightful crunch.
Salmon fillets: Fresh or thawed, they transform into tender flakes after baking.
Soy sauce (or tamari): Brings savory depth to the salmon while seasoning it perfectly.
Cream cheese: Adds velvety creaminess that balances the spicy heat.
Mayonnaise (Kewpie preferred): Adds richness and a slightly sweet note for that iconic sushi bake texture.
Sriracha sauce: The star of spice, offering just enough heat without overpowering.
Avocado: Sliced or cubed, it lends buttery softness and a touch of freshness.
Cucumber: Adds crisp bite and vibrant green color to the final dish.
Green onions: Sprinkle on top for mild pungency and a bright finish.
Nori seaweed sheets: Serve on the side to wrap each bite for an authentic sushi feel.
Extra Kewpie mayo and unagi sauce: Optional drizzles that amp up flavor complexity and visual appeal.

TIP

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: Prepare the Sushi Rice

Start by rinsing the sushi rice thoroughly in cold water using a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. This crucial step removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy. Cook the rice following the package directions, usually about 20 minutes, for perfectly fluffy results. Once cooked, season the rice with rice wine vinegar, sugar, and salt, gently folding to combine without mashing the grains.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

While your rice is cooking, season your salmon fillets with soy sauce to infuse them with a delicious, salty depth. You can cook the salmon in the oven or air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit; air frying takes about 10 minutes, while baking will require 15-20 minutes depending on thickness. This method keeps the salmon moist but allows it to flake easily for mixing later.

Step 3: Mix the Spicy Salmon Topping

Once your salmon is cooked, break it apart gently with a fork and transfer it to a bowl. Combine the salmon with softened cream cheese, mayo, and sriracha sauce. This creamy, spicy blend will be the luscious top layer of your sushi bake, giving it bold yet balanced flavors.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper or coat it with cooking spray for easy cleanup. Press the seasoned sushi rice evenly into the bottom of the dish, then sprinkle generously with furikake seasoning for an extra burst of flavor. Spread the spicy salmon mixture evenly over the rice, making sure every bite has a little bit of that delightful topping. Bake for 15 minutes or until bubbly and slightly browned on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

When out of the oven, add final touches by drizzling extra mayo over the top and garnishing with sliced green onions, cubed avocado, and cucumber for fresh crispness. Serve the bake with nori sheets on the side, so everyone can scoop or wrap their portion, adding that authentic sushi texture and flavor.

How to Serve Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe

The image shows two square glass containers placed on a white marbled surface. The left container has two layers: the bottom layer is white and looks like rice, and the top layer is a dark green mixture that looks like seaweed with sesame seeds sprinkled evenly on top. The right container also has two layers: the bottom is dark green, likely seaweed, and the top layer is a thick, creamy, light pink mixture spread evenly, possibly a seafood or fish salad. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes is like putting the cherry on top of this delicious dish. The creamy avocado cubes and refreshing cucumber slices provide cool contrast to the warm, spicy salmon. Green onions bring brightness and a little crunch, and a drizzle of unagi sauce or extra Kewpie mayo adds a sweet and umami punch. These little touches elevate presentation and flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake pairs wonderfully with light, crisp side dishes like seaweed salad, pickled ginger, or a simple miso soup. You might also serve it alongside edamame for a protein boost or a refreshing cucumber salad to keep the meal balanced and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting guests, consider serving the sushi bake in individual mini ramekins for charming personal portions. Another fun idea is to set up a DIY sushi bake bar with nori sheets, extra toppings like sesame seeds, sliced radish, or tempura flakes so everyone can customize their bites exactly how they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your spicy salmon sushi bake, wrap leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 2 days, allowing you to savor every last bit without worry.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, the texture is best preserved when eaten fresh or refrigerated. If needed, freeze the sushi bake in an airtight container for up to a month, but be aware the creamy topping might separate slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to avoid drying out the salmon. Microwave reheating works but watch the timing closely to keep the cream cheese topping creamy and prevent overcooking the rice.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before cooking. Frozen salmon works well and makes this dish even more accessible.

Is it necessary to use Kewpie mayonnaise?

Kewpie mayo is preferred for its richer, slightly sweeter flavor, but you can substitute regular mayonnaise if needed. The dish will still be delicious!

How spicy is this Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe?

The heat level mainly depends on how much sriracha you add. The amount suggested creates a pleasant, moderate spice, but feel free to adjust it to your taste—more for a bolder kick, less if you want it milder.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your furikake and other sauces are gluten-free. This way, the dish remains safe and flavorful.

Can I substitute the salmon for another fish or protein?

While salmon is ideal for its rich texture and flavor, you could experiment with cooked shrimp, crab, or even tofu to create a different but equally tasty sushi bake.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite dishes to prepare and share. Its comforting layers of fluffy rice, spicy-smooth salmon, and fresh garnishes deliver a perfect balance in every bite. If you’ve been looking for an easy yet impressive way to enjoy sushi flavors at home, this dish will not disappoint. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love just like I did!

Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need