Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, contemplating dinner, an idea struck me: why not transform those elusive sushi cravings into a cozy, home-cooked meal? That’s how I landed on this creamy salmon sushi bake—a delightful fusion of all the ocean-fresh flavors I adore without the fuss of traditional rolling. Perfect for a quick preparation on busy nights, this dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly customizable to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or a curious home chef, get ready to indulge in a hearty bake that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Curious to see how you can whip this up effortlessly? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Is This Salmon Sushi Bake Amazing? Creamy, Dreamy Flavor: Each bite bursts with a rich, creamy combination of salmon and savory seasonings that transports your taste buds straight to sushi heaven. Quick to Prepare: With minimal cooking steps, you can whip this satisfying dish up in no time—perfect for busy weeknights! Customizable Options: Substitute ingredients easily! Whether you’re craving shrimp or prefer a gluten-free alternative using tamari, this recipe is versatile for any diet. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this salmon sushi bake is sure to impress and satisfy everyone around the table. Baked to Perfection: The delightful crispy top layer paired with creamy fillings makes this dish a hearty, warm embrace in every bite. Pair this memorable dish with a light salad or a cozy bowl of miso soup for a complete meal experience! Salmon Sushi Bake Ingredients For the Rice Base • Sushi Rice – Ensure it is rinsed to remove excess starch for the perfect texture. • Water – Use appropriate ratios for amazing rice consistency. • Lite Seasoned Rice Vinegar – Adds a flavorful tang; regular vinegar can be used if need be! For the Salmon Mixture • Salmon Filet – Raw and cubed for that fresh taste; cooked seafood works in a pinch. • Imitation Crab Meat – Adds texture and flavor; real crab is a fantastic replacement! • Kewpie Mayo – Brings creaminess to the mix; regular mayo is an okay substitute, but flavors differ. • Cream Cheese – Softened for the best results; Neufchâtel is a lighter alternative. • Sriracha – For that spicy kick! Adjust to your desired heat level. • Soy Sauce or Tamari – Use tamari for gluten-free needs while enhancing flavor. • Green Onions – Freshness and crunch; chives can work as a substitute! For the Toppings • Unagi Sauce – Sweet soy sauce glaze for a decadent finish; teriyaki sauce is a worthy alternative. • Spicy Mayo – A blend of mayo and sriracha for serving; personalize your spice level! • Toppings (Avocado, Sesame Seeds, Cucumber, Nori Sheets) – For added freshness and texture; can mix it up based on what you have on hand! Dive into the deliciousness of this salmon sushi bake and embrace the comfort of sushi flavors made easy at home! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salmon Sushi Bake Step 1: Prepare Sushi Rice Begin by rinsing 1 cup of sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch. Soak the rice for 15 minutes to enhance texture, then bring 1¼ cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in the soaked rice, reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. After cooking, let it rest for another 10 minutes before transferring the rice to a bowl and gently folding in 2 tablespoons of lite seasoned rice vinegar. Step 2: Make Salmon Mixture While the rice is cooling, chop 8 ounces of fresh salmon fillet into bite-sized cubes and place it in a mixing bowl. Add ¼ cup of Kewpie mayo, 2 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha for spice, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or tamari, and 2 chopped green onions. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined, then refrigerate for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. 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. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly—about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool while you assemble the rest of the dish; this sweet glaze will add a delightful finishing touch to your salmon sushi bake. Step 4: Mix Spicy Mayo For the spicy mayo, mix together ¼ cup of mayonnaise with 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha and a splash of lime juice in a small bowl. Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your desired spice level. After mixing, set it aside in the refrigerator so it stays chilled and flavorful while you finish preparing the other components of your salmon sushi bake. Step 5: Assembly Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Spread an even layer of the seasoned sushi rice across the bottom of the dish, pressing it down gently. Next, evenly distribute the chilled salmon mixture over the rice layer. Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through and the top looks lightly golden. Step 6: Broil for Crispiness To achieve a delightful crisp on top, switch your oven to broil, keeping the salmon sushi bake under a close watch for about 2-3 minutes. Keep the door slightly ajar to prevent over-browning. When the top is perfectly caramelized and golden, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. Step 7: Serve To serve, drizzle the cooled unagi sauce over the top of the baked dish and add dollops of your spicy mayo. Garnish generously with avocado slices, sesame seeds, chopped cucumber, and nori sheets for that authentic sushi feel. Each bite of this salmon sushi bake will deliver a medley of flavors and textures sure to impress everyone at the table! Make Ahead Options This creamy salmon sushi bake is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to prep in advance for a stress-free dinner! You can make the sushi rice and let it cool, storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The salmon mixture can also be combined ahead of time and refrigerated for about 3 days, ensuring flavors meld beautifully. To maintain quality, keep the unagi sauce and spicy mayo separate until serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your salmon sushi bake, simply layer the rice and salmon mixture in a baking dish, bake for 10-15 minutes, broil for a crispy finish, and serve with toppings! How to Store and Freeze Salmon Sushi Bake Fridge: Store leftover salmon sushi bake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven to maintain its creamy texture. Freezer: You can freeze portions of the sushi bake for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for best results. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare sauces and toppings in advance and refrigerate separately to enjoy a fresher, flavorful experience when serving the dish. Salmon Sushi Bake Variations Feel free to customize this delightful salmon sushi bake to suit your cravings and dietary preferences! Tuna Twist: Substitute salmon with diced fresh tuna for a bold flavor change. The richness of tuna works beautifully with creamy ingredients. Shrimp Delight: Swap out the salmon with diced cooked shrimp for a seafood medley. It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for a lighter protein in your bake! Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free for a worry-free meal. Cauliflower Rice: For a healthier, low-carb alternative, use cauliflower rice instead of traditional sushi rice. It adds a wonderful texture while keeping it light. Veggie Lovers: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the salmon mixture for added nutrients and a pop of color. They blend seamlessly into the creamy filling. Cream Cheese Swap: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese. It provides a similar creaminess with added protein. Spicy Kick: Adjust the level of sriracha for your spice tolerance, or throw in some diced jalapeños for an extra punch. This is perfect for those who enjoy more heat in their meals! Unagi Sauce Substitute: If you can’t find unagi sauce, drizzle teriyaki sauce on top instead. It offers a sweet finish that compliments the bake nicely. Want to explore more ways to enjoy salmon? Check out our recipe for Baked Salmon Herb or if you’re in the mood for grilled flavors, try our Grilled Pineapple Salmon. These variations keep things exciting in the kitchen! Expert Tips for Salmon Sushi Bake Rinse Properly: Always rinse sushi rice until the water runs clear to avoid excess starch—this ensures the perfect sticky texture. Warm Vinegar Mixing: Mix the lite seasoned rice vinegar with warm rice for better absorption and enhanced flavor in your salmon sushi bake. Cool Hands for Rice: Use cold water on your hands while handling sushi rice to prevent it from sticking and making the assembly easier. Keep an Eye on the Broiler: When broiling for that lovely crisp top, stay vigilant! A moment too long could lead to burned edges. Experiment Wisely: Don’t hesitate to customize your salmon sushi bake by trying different seafood or alternative toppings to suit your family’s preferences. What to Serve with Creamy Salmon Sushi Bake? Dive into a culinary adventure by pairing this creamy delight with complementary dishes that enhance its rich, savory flavors. Crispy Seaweed Salad: The fresh crunch of this salad rounds out the meal with a delightful oceanic flair, perfectly balancing the creaminess. Miso Soup: Warm and comforting, miso soup adds an umami kick and is the ideal starter to elevate your dining experience. Stir-Fried Veggies: Quick sautéed seasonal vegetables explode with color and flavor, offering a fresh contrast to the baked sushi’s richness. Edamame Beans: These lightly salted, protein-packed pods serve as a fun snack that complements the dish’s flavors while keeping it light and healthy. Pickled Ginger: A tangy, palate-cleansing addition that enhances the sushi experience while cutting through the creaminess of the bake. Sesame Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers dressed with sesame oil offer a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the salmon’s smooth texture. Tropical Fruit Salad: A light and sweet dish, this fruity medley brings brightness and a hint of acidity that contrasts delightfully with creamy layers. Green Tea: A soothing, earthy beverage that helps to cleanse the palate and perfectly accompanies sushi-inspired flavors. Mochi Ice Cream: End your meal with a delightful dessert, bringing a sweet and chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the savory bite of the sushi bake. Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe FAQs What type of salmon is best for the salmon sushi bake? Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, high-quality raw salmon fillets. Look for bright orange color with a fresh ocean smell. If using cooked seafood, such as grilled salmon or canned options, be mindful to adjust cooking times accordingly. How should I store leftover salmon sushi bake? Store any remaining salmon sushi bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the microwave or oven; just ensure it’s heated through without losing that creamy consistency you created! Can I freeze the salmon sushi bake? Yes, you can freeze it! To do so, slice the sushi bake into portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. What can I substitute for sushi rice if I don’t have any? If sushi rice isn’t available, try using jasmine or short-grain rice. While the texture may vary slightly, the cooking method remains the same! For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice can be a healthier substitute—just lightly sauté it before adding your ingredients. Are there any allergenic ingredients in this salmon sushi bake? Definitely be aware of potential allergies. The dish includes seafood, dairy (from cream cheese and Kewpie mayo), and soy (from soy sauce). For gluten-free diets, ensure you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Always check labels if you’re serving guests with specific dietary restrictions! How can I make the salmon sushi bake spicier? Very! If you want to kick up the heat, simply add more sriracha to the salmon mixture or mix in minced jalapeños before baking. You could also sprinkle some chili flakes on top before broiling for an extra layer of warmth! Delicious Salmon Sushi Bake: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite Transform your sushi cravings with this creamy salmon sushi bake, a crowd-pleaser and customizable dish made easy at home. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 45 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsRefrigeration Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: JapaneseCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Rice Base1 cup Sushi Rice Rinsed to remove excess starch1.25 cups Water For cooking rice2 tablespoons Lite Seasoned Rice Vinegar Adds a flavorful tangFor the Salmon Mixture8 ounces Salmon Filet Raw and cubed0.25 cups Kewpie Mayo For creaminess2 ounces Cream Cheese Softened1-2 tablespoons Sriracha For desired spice level1 tablespoon Soy Sauce or Tamari For flavor enhancement2 pieces Green Onions Chopped for freshnessFor the Toppings0.25 cups Unagi Sauce Sweet soy sauce glaze0.25 cups Spicy Mayo Blend for servingToppings (Avocado, Sesame Seeds, Cucumber, Nori Sheets) For added freshness and texture Equipment saucepanmixing bowlBaking dishSmall Bowl Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Salmon Sushi BakeRinse 1 cup of sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, soak for 15 minutes. Boil 1¼ cups of water, add the rice, reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Let it rest for 10 minutes, then fold in 2 tablespoons of lite seasoned rice vinegar.Chop 8 ounces of fresh salmon fillet into cubes and place in a mixing bowl. Add ¼ cup of Kewpie mayo, 2 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or tamari, and 2 chopped green onions. Mix well and refrigerate for 15 minutes.In a small saucepan, combine ¼ cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of mirin, 1 tablespoon of sake, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Simmer over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly, then cool.Mix ¼ cup of mayonnaise with 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha and a splash of lime juice for spicy mayo. Set aside in refrigerator.Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish, spread sushi rice evenly, then add the chilled salmon mixture on top. Bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and top is golden.Switch to broil for 2-3 minutes to crisp the top, keeping a close watch to prevent burning. Remove from oven and let sit for a couple of minutes.Drizzle unagi sauce over top and add dollops of spicy mayo. Garnish with avocado, sesame seeds, chopped cucumber, and nori sheets before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat by baking at 350°F until heated through. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
