If you have ever wanted to enjoy the flavors of sushi in a cozy, hassle-free way, this Easy Sushi Bake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining fluffy seasoned sushi rice with a creamy, spicy seafood topping, all baked to perfection, this dish brings the joy of sushi without the fuss of rolling or chopping. Each bite is rich and satisfying, effortlessly melding the crispiness of toasted nori with the luscious, warm filling that feels like a comforting hug on a plate. It’s perfect for sharing, meal prepping, or anytime you crave sushi with a delicious twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each adding its own magic, from the tangy sushi rice base to the creamy, spicy seafood layer that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice: The fluffy foundation that soaks up all the savory goodness.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds that classic sushi tang to the rice.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Balances the acidity with a gentle sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor in the dish.
- 1 cup imitation crab meat or cooked shrimp, chopped: The star seafood element that brings body and taste.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Brings a creamy, rich texture that marries all the ingredients.
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste): Adds a spicy kick that wakes up your palate.
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened: Adds softness and an irresistible richness.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Brings umami depth for a savory boost.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses a nutty aroma that’s unmistakably Asian-inspired.
- 2 sheets roasted seaweed (nori), cut into small rectangles: Provides that crisp, salty crunch essential for sushi enjoyment.
- 1 tablespoon furikake seasoning (optional): A flavorful sprinkle that adds color and texture.
- Sliced green onions and avocado for garnish (optional): Freshness and creaminess to brighten each bite.
How to Make Easy Sushi Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoned Sushi Rice
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it warms up, gently mix your cooked sushi rice with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. This seasoning is the secret to giving the rice its signature sushi flavor. Once combined, press the rice evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish to form a solid, compact layer that will hold the toppings beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Seafood Topping
In a separate bowl, stir together the chopped imitation crab or shrimp with mayonnaise, sriracha, softened cream cheese, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Keep mixing until you have a smooth, creamy mixture that is perfectly balanced between spicy, savory, and rich flavors. This mixture is what takes the sushi bake to the next level.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Spread your creamy seafood mixture evenly over the prepared rice layer, making sure it covers every inch. If you’re a fan of added texture and flavor, sprinkle furikake seasoning over the top. Slide your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top gets slightly golden and the filling is bubbling hot.
Step 4: Let It Rest and Get Ready to Serve
Once out of the oven, allow your sushi bake to cool for about 5 minutes. This little rest helps everything set so you can enjoy clean, satisfying slices that hold together perfectly when scooped up with nori or on their own.
How to Serve Easy Sushi Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing adds fresh bursts of flavor and color that brighten the dish. Simply sprinkle sliced green onions and arrange avocado slices on the side or on top to add creaminess and a cool contrast to the warm, spicy bake.
Side Dishes
This sushi bake pairs wonderfully with light sides such as a crisp cucumber salad or a bowl of miso soup. These accompaniments help balance the richness and build a wonderfully satisfying meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by turning this into a sushi bake platter party. Serve the baked mixture in the baking dish with nori rectangles on the side for guests to build their own bites. You can also dollop extra sriracha or drizzle spicy mayo for an exciting, personalized touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy Sushi Bake Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the nori and garnishes separate to maintain their crisp and fresh texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze the baked sushi in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, to keep the texture and flavors vibrant. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the rice gummy.
FAQs
Can I use real crab instead of imitation crab meat?
Absolutely! Real crab will give you an extra seafood-rich flavor but can be a bit pricier. Either way, your Easy Sushi Bake Recipe will be delicious.
Is this recipe spicy? Can I adjust the heat?
The recipe has a pleasant spicy kick thanks to sriracha, but you can always adjust the amount to suit your taste, either dialing it back or adding more for extra heat.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, try substituting the seafood with sautéed mushrooms or marinated tofu, and leave out the fish-based seasonings. The creamy, spicy topping will still shine!
What’s the best way to serve the sushi bake with the nori?
Serve the baked sushi hot with nori rectangles on the side, letting everyone scoop and wrap bites themselves for a fun, interactive meal.
Can I prepare the sushi rice and seafood topping in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the rice and seafood mixture a few hours ahead or the day before. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and fun about this Easy Sushi Bake Recipe, whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just indulging yourself. It combines the beloved flavors of sushi in a warm, baked dish that’s super easy to make and impossible not to love. Give it a try, and soon you’ll have a new go-to recipe that makes sushi night effortless and delicious every time.
Print
Easy Sushi Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese-American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This Easy Sushi Bake is a delicious and comforting twist on traditional sushi, perfect for those who crave the flavors of sushi without the rolling. Featuring layers of seasoned sushi rice topped with a creamy and spicy seafood mixture, then baked to perfection, this dish offers a warm, flavorful experience that’s easy to prepare and great for gatherings or meal prep.
Ingredients
Sushi Rice
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Seafood Mixture
- 1 cup imitation crab meat or cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Additional
- 2 sheets roasted seaweed (nori), cut into small rectangles
- 1 tablespoon furikake seasoning (optional)
- Sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
- Avocado slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the sushi casserole.
- Prepare Rice Layer: In a bowl, combine the cooked sushi rice with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Mix thoroughly to evenly season the rice. Then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish, creating an even layer.
- Make Seafood Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped imitation crab or shrimp with mayonnaise, sriracha, softened cream cheese, soy sauce, and sesame oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Bake: Spread the seafood mixture evenly over the rice layer in the baking dish. If using, sprinkle furikake seasoning evenly on top for added flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is hot and slightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the sushi bake from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm alongside the roasted seaweed (nori) rectangles and garnish with sliced green onions and avocado if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute canned tuna or cooked salmon for the imitation crab meat if preferred.
- For extra spice, drizzle additional sriracha over the bake just before serving.
- This sushi bake is ideal for meal prepping and reheats well in the oven or microwave.
