A delicious homemade sushi bake topped with seafood and avocado.

Sushi Bake Recipe

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Sushi Bake is a fun and easy way to enjoy the delicious flavors of sushi without the hassle of rolling it. It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy night at home. The best part is that it brings all the classic sushi tastes together in one baking dish, making it suitable for everyone, including those who may not be familiar with traditional sushi. Plus, it’s baked, so you can enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that make this dish a hit!

How to Make Sushi Bake

Ingredients

  • 5 cups sticky rice
  • 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons furikake
  • 1.5 lbs salmon, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
  • Optional: sushi ginger
  • 2 tablespoons kewpie mayo (or substitute with spicy mayo)
  • Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
  • Drizzle of Sriracha for garnish (optional)
  • Nori seaweed sheets, cut into 2-inch x 2-inch pieces, for serving
  • Soy sauce or Tamari, for dipping

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (246°C) so it’s ready for the rice bake.
  2. In a small glass measuring cup, whisk together rice vinegar, granulated sugar, and kosher salt until the sugar and salt dissolve to create the seasoning mixture for the rice.
  3. Spread the sticky rice evenly into a nonstick quarter baking sheet. Pour the vinegar mixture evenly over the rice. Using wet fingers, press the rice down firmly into the pan to compact it.
  4. Place the pan uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, then remove and let the rice cool at room temperature.
  5. While the rice cools, remove the skin from the salmon and cut the flesh into approximately 1-inch cubes.
  6. Once the rice is cooled, evenly sprinkle furikake seasoning over the surface. Spread the cubed salmon over the furikake-covered rice. Season salmon with kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Reduce oven temperature to 400°F (204°C). Place the baking sheet back in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through. Remove and allow it to cool slightly.
  8. Once slightly cooled, arrange avocado slices, green onions, and optional sushi ginger on top of the salmon layer. Drizzle evenly with kewpie mayo or spicy mayo. Garnish with sesame seeds and a drizzle of Sriracha if desired.
  9. Cut the sushi bake into squares and serve on individual nori sheets with soy sauce or tamari for dipping.

How to Serve Sushi Bake

Sushi Bake is best enjoyed warm. Cut it into squares and serve each piece on a nori sheet. Allow guests to wrap their pieces in the nori and dip them in soy sauce or tamari. Adding slices of avocado and a drizzle of mayo creates a tasty experience!

How to Store Sushi Bake

If you have leftovers, allow the sushi bake to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving again. The rice may become a bit firmer, but it will still taste great!

Tips to Make Sushi Bake

  • Make sure to use sticky rice for the best texture.
  • Pack the rice firmly to give it a good base for the toppings.
  • Feel free to add your favorite sushi ingredients to the mix, like crab meat or cucumber.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste; add more or less salt and pepper based on personal preference.

Variation

For a spicy version, add some diced jalapeños to the salmon before baking. You can also mix in cream cheese for a richer flavor. Another delicious option is to use a different type of fish, like tuna or a combination of different seafood.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of sticky rice?
While you can use brown rice, it will change the texture of the dish. Sticky rice gives the best results for this recipe.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Sushi Bake is great for meal prep! Just store it in portions and reheat as needed.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice and toppings ahead of time and assemble the sushi bake before baking. Store the components in the fridge and bake when you are ready to serve.