If you have ever dreamed of capturing the magic of sushi in a comforting, easy-to-make casserole, then this Easy Sushi Bake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It combines the beloved flavors of sushi—tangy sushi rice, creamy seafood topping, and crunchy garnishes—into a warm, bubbly dish that’s perfect for sharing. This dish is such a crowd-pleaser and a delightful way to enjoy all the elements of sushi without the fuss of rolling or raw fish. Whether you’re a sushi lover or new to Japanese-inspired meals, this recipe promises a beautiful fusion of texture and flavor that feels like a delicious celebration in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These are simple, everyday ingredients that come together in harmony to create a luscious and flavorful sushi bake. Each component plays an important role, from the perfectly seasoned sushi rice to the creamy, spicy seafood topping, ensuring every bite is balanced and crave-worthy.
- 2 cups sushi rice (short-grain rice): The foundation of the dish, providing that sticky, tender texture essential for sushi.
- 2 1/2 cups water: Needed to perfectly cook the sushi rice to fluffy, tender perfection.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds the classic tang and brightness sushi rice is known for.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Balances the vinegar with a gentle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the rice seasoning.
- 1 lb (450g) imitation crab meat or cooked shrimp, shredded or chopped: The star seafood ingredient that brings savory, tender bites.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably Japanese mayonnaise, like Kewpie): Adds creaminess and richness to the topping.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce: For a mild kick of heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Gives a salty, umami depth to the seafood mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil: Offers an irresistible nutty aroma and flavor.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened: Brings smoothness and luxurious texture to the topping.
- 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and mild bite.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish): Provides a toasty crunch that complements every mouthful.
- 1 tablespoon nori (seaweed) strips or sheets, shredded (for garnish): Brings authentic sushi flavor and a bit of chewiness.
- 1 tablespoon furikake (optional, for garnish): A Japanese seasoning blend that adds vibrant flavor and interesting texture.
- Sushi rolls or steamed white rice (for serving): To enjoy the bake alongside or in mini hand rolls for an interactive meal.
How to Make Easy Sushi Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice
Begin by rinsing your sushi rice under cold water until the water becomes clear. This step is crucial because it removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky. Then, cook the rice with water either in a rice cooker or on the stovetop, ensuring it simmers gently until tender and all the water is absorbed.
Step 2: Season the Rice
While the rice cooks, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl and warm it slightly so everything dissolves perfectly. Once the rice is ready, gently fold this seasoning into your warm rice using a fork to fluff it up without mashing. This seasoned sushi rice forms the base of your bake and gives it that unmistakable sushi flavor.
Step 3: Create the Sushi Bake Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded imitation crab or chopped cooked shrimp with creamy mayonnaise, spicy sriracha, savory soy sauce, aromatic sesame oil, and softened cream cheese. Stir until smooth and evenly mixed—this creamy topping is packed with flavor and will bake into a gorgeous golden crust.
Step 4: Assemble Your Sushi Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish, ideally around 9×9 inches. Spread the sushi rice evenly across the bottom, then top with the luscious seafood mixture spread out to cover all the rice. This layering will help create that delicious balance of textures once baked.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Place your dish in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the topping is golden on the edges and bubbling with irresistible aroma. This moment feels like magic—your kitchen fills with the scent of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy notes all coming together.
Step 6: Garnish and Prepare to Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the sushi bake with shredded nori, chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and furikake if you have it. These garnishes add layers of flavor, texture, and color, making your sushi bake look as amazing as it tastes.
How to Serve Easy Sushi Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes are key to elevating your sushi bake experience. Bright green onions add a sharp freshness, toasted sesame seeds lend an enjoyable crunch, and shredded nori imparts that distinctive seaweed flavor you crave. Don’t shy away from furikake either—this sprinkle of Japanese goodness brings a fun burst of texture and umami that completes each bite beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your sushi bake with classic sides like pickled ginger and wasabi for an authentic sushi experience. Cool cucumber salad or miso soup are also excellent companions, balancing the richness of the bake with light, refreshing flavors. Alternatively, offering sushi rolls or steamed rice alongside lets everyone customize how they enjoy their meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your family or guests? Serve the sushi bake in mini portions using ramekins or in shallow cast iron skillets to make it more personal and shareable. You can also use it as a filling for sushi hand rolls—just scoop some into a nori sheet and roll it up for a fun finger food option. The versatility allows you to get creative and showcase this dish in ways that delight everyone.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Easy Sushi Bake Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their moisture and flavor. Before storing, be sure to let the bake cool completely to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Freezing
While you can freeze leftover sushi bake, it’s best to do so with caution. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to one month. Keep in mind that cream cheese and mayonnaise-based dishes may slightly change texture after freezing, but they’ll still taste delicious when reheated thoroughly.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat shredded portions of your sushi bake in a microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly again. This helps restore the creamy, bubbly texture that makes your sushi bake so satisfying. Avoid overcooking to keep the seafood tender and the rice fluffy.
FAQs
Can I use real crab instead of imitation crab in the Easy Sushi Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! Real crab can be a delicious upgrade that adds a fresh ocean flavor. Just make sure it’s cooked and shredded before mixing it with the other ingredients. It will make your sushi bake taste even more luxurious.
Is this recipe really easy to make for beginners?
Yes! This Easy Sushi Bake Recipe was designed with simplicity in mind. Even if you’ve never made sushi or baked seafood before, the clear steps and straightforward ingredients make it fun and approachable for cooks of all levels.
What can I substitute for the mayonnaise in this recipe?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt can work, though the flavor and texture will be different. For an authentic creamy taste, Japanese mayonnaise like Kewpie is recommended because of its slight sweetness and smoothness.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
You can! Swap the seafood for seasoned, sautéed mushrooms or tofu, and use vegan mayonnaise. While the flavor won’t be exactly like sushi, it will still be delightful and packed with umami flavors.
How spicy is the sushi bake with the sriracha sauce?
The level of heat is mild to moderate, but you can easily adjust the sriracha amount to suit your preference. If you want to tone it down, reduce it; for an extra kick, add a little more or serve with chili flakes on the side.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard not to fall in love with this Easy Sushi Bake Recipe once you taste its creamy, savory layers baked to perfection. It combines the joy of sushi flavors with the comfort of a warm casserole that anyone can create at home. I hope you get inspired to give this a try—you’ll quickly see why it becomes a favorite whenever you bring it to the table. Grab your ingredients, have fun making it, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Easy Sushi Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Description
This Easy Sushi Bake Recipe is a delightful, comforting twist on traditional sushi, featuring a creamy, spicy seafood topping layered over perfectly seasoned sushi rice and baked to bubbly perfection. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy dinner, this sushi bake combines familiar flavors with the convenience of a casserole, garnished with nori, sesame seeds, and green onions for added texture and flair.
Ingredients
Sushi Rice
- 2 cups sushi rice (short-grain rice)
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Topping
- 1 lb (450g) imitation crab meat or cooked shrimp, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably Japanese mayonnaise, like Kewpie)
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust based on heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
Garnishes
- 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon nori (seaweed) strips or sheets, shredded
- 1 tablespoon furikake (optional)
For Serving
- Sushi rolls or steamed white rice
Instructions
- Prepare the Sushi Rice: Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, ensuring the rice cooks evenly and achieves the proper sticky texture.
- Cook the Rice: In a rice cooker or pot, combine the rinsed rice and water. Cook according to rice cooker instructions or bring to a boil on stovetop, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18-20 minutes until tender and water is absorbed.
- Season the Rice: Mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Heat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until dissolved, then stir gently into the cooked rice. Fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly.
- Make the Sushi Bake Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded imitation crab or shrimp, mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and softened cream cheese. Stir until evenly mixed and smooth.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium-sized (about 9×9 inch) baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Sushi Bake: Evenly spread the prepared sushi rice in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Add the Topping: Spread the crab or shrimp mixture evenly over the rice, ensuring full coverage.
- Bake: Bake the assembled sushi bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish: Once baked, sprinkle the top with shredded nori, green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and furikake if desired for added flavor and texture.
- Serve: Enjoy warm, served with sushi rolls or steamed white rice. Accompany with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi on the side for a traditional sushi experience.
Notes
- Use Japanese mayonnaise like Kewpie for authentic flavor and creaminess.
- Adjust sriracha to your preferred spice level.
- Imitation crab is commonly used for convenience and flavor but cooked shrimp works beautifully as an alternative.
- Allow rice to cool slightly before assembling to avoid sogginess.
- Garnishes like furikake and nori strips add traditional sushi flavors and visual appeal.
- This dish is best served warm and can be reheated gently in the oven.
