This Easy Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake is a fun twist on sushi! It has creamy salmon mixed with a little kick of spice, all baked until bubbly and golden. Yum!
I love how simple it is to whip up this dish. Just mix, layer, and let it bake—perfect for a cozy night in with friends or family! Plus, you can enjoy it with rice or even as a dip!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sushi Rice: It’s essential for that perfect texture! If you don’t have sushi rice, try short-grain rice or even a medium-grain variety. Just remember to season it well with vinegar and sugar for that authentic flavor.
Salmon: Fresh salmon is great, but if you prefer a more budget-friendly option, canned salmon works too! Just make sure to drain it well before using. You could also use tuna or a mix of seafood for a different taste.
Mayonnaise: I love using Japanese mayo like Kewpie for its creaminess, but regular mayo is totally fine too. You can also swap it for Greek yogurt for a lighter and tangy version!
Sriracha Sauce: Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. If you want a milder option, try mixing in some sweet chili sauce or even a bit of ketchup for a unique twist!
Nori: If you can’t find nori, consider using crushed tortilla chips or even crushed potato chips as an alternative for a crunchy topping!
How Do You Bake the Perfect Sushi Bake?
The key to a successful sushi bake is ensuring that every layer is packed with flavor and baked just right. Start by preheating your oven; this step is crucial for even cooking. Make sure to mix the salmon gently with the spicy mayo, so every bit gets that creamy touch.
- Spread the sushi rice evenly for a good base. A firm and even layer helps hold everything together when you serve it.
- When you layer the salmon, don’t press too hard—let it sit gently on top so it cooks perfectly.
- Keep an eye on it while baking! You want it golden but not dry, so check at the 12-minute mark.
Letting it cool slightly before adding toppings ensures they stay fresh and vibrant. Enjoy every bite of this trendy, easy dish!
Easy Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice (seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt)
- 10 oz fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably Japanese mayo like Kewpie)
- 2-3 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup diced cucumber
- 1 sheet nori (seaweed), crumbled or cut into small pieces
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (white and black mixed)
- Eel sauce or unagi sauce, for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of baking time, making it a quick dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to make serving easier later.
2. Prepare the Spicy Mayo:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and sriracha sauce. This will create a delicious spicy mayo sauce. Feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha based on how spicy you like it!
3. Mix the Salmon:
Add the chopped salmon, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the bowl with the spicy mayo. Gently mix everything together until all the salmon is coated well.
4. Spread the Rice:
Take the cooked sushi rice and spread it evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Press it down gently to create a nice base.
5. Layer the Salmon:
Now, layer the spicy salmon mixture evenly over the rice. This helps every bite pack a punch of flavor!
6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the salmon is cooked through and the top gets slightly golden.
7. Cool and Add Toppings:
Once it’s done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a couple of minutes. Then, drizzle some extra spicy mayo on top. Add the sliced avocado, diced cucumber, chopped green onions, crumbled nori, and sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over everything.
8. Drizzle with Eel Sauce:
If you want that extra layer of sweetness, finish with a drizzle of eel sauce or unagi sauce. This is optional but highly recommended for an even more robust flavor!
9. Serve:
Serve warm with extra nori sheets or crispy rice crackers for scooping. Enjoy this creamy, spicy, and savory sushi bake as a comforting dish inspired by classic sushi flavors!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake
Can I Use Different Types of Fish?
Absolutely! While salmon is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with other fresh fish like tuna or shrimp. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if you’re using shrimp, as they cook faster.
What If I Don’t Have Sushi Rice?
No problem! You can use short-grain rice or even medium-grain rice. Just remember to season it with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt to mimic the flavors of traditional sushi rice.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave it in short bursts until hot.
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the spicy salmon mixture and cook the sushi rice a day in advance. Assembling everything before baking on the day of serving helps keep it fresh and delicious!
