If you’re looking for a wonderfully comforting dish that combines the delightful flavors of sushi with a warm, creamy texture, then this Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe is just what your taste buds have been waiting for. With tender salmon, rich cream cheese, tangy sushi rice, and a hint of spicy sriracha, this recipe is perfect for sharing with friends or family, offering all the best elements of a sushi roll in a cozy, easy-to-serve casserole style.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, holding four main layers of ingredients. The bottom layer is made of shredded light pink salmon. On top, there is a smooth, creamy off-white layer of mayonnaise. Next to this is a bright red dollop of sauce, slightly wet in texture. Near the sauce, there are two small blocks of white cream cheese, one slightly toasted on top. The bowl's contents are arranged but not mixed. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating a Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe that bursts with flavor and texture. Each component plays its part—from the perfectly seasoned sushi rice to the creamy, spicy salmon topping, and the fun garnishes that make the dish pop with color and taste.

2 cups dry sushi rice: The soul of the dish, providing that distinct sticky, slightly tangy base.
2 cups water: Perfectly proportions to cook your sushi rice just right without being mushy.
1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar: Adds a subtle acidity that balances the richness throughout.
1 1/2 lb salmon fillet: The star protein, which once baked, becomes tender and flavorful.
Salt & pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the salmon.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Provides a gentle aromatic kick to the fish.
8 oz imitation crab meat, chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture to the filling.
1/2 cup Japanese mayonnaise: Softens the filling while giving it a creamy, rich mouthfeel.
4 oz cream cheese, softened: Brings that signature lush, silky texture to the bake.
1 Tbsp sriracha: For just the right amount of heat to wake up your palate.
1 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce: Adds depth and umami without overwhelming the dish.
2 Tbsp furikake: A flavorful Japanese seasoning that adds crunch and nuttiness.
Spicy mayo (mayo + sriracha + lime juice): The irresistible drizzling sauce that brightens every bite.
Green onion, chopped: Adds freshness and color on top of the cooked bake.
Black and white sesame seeds: Crunchy texture and visual appeal make them a must-have garnish.
Roasted seaweed: Perfect for scooping just like a sushi roll wrapper.
Unagi sauce (eel sauce): Sweet and savory drizzle to elevate the whole experience.
English cucumber slices: Cool and crisp, these balance the richness beautifully.
Avocado slices: Creamy and buttery, rounding out each savory mouthful.

How to Make Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sushi Rice

Start by rinsing the sushi rice under cold water for about one minute, gently stirring to remove excess starch. This step ensures your rice will be sticky but light. Cook the rice in a rice cooker with 2 cups of water until tender. Once cooked, transfer it to a rimmed baking sheet, gently fold in 1/4 cup of seasoned rice vinegar with a rice paddle, taking care not to smash the grains. Set the rice aside and let it cool slightly to room temperature.

Step 2: Prepare and Bake the Salmon

While the rice is cooling, season your salmon fillet generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to bring out its natural flavors. Bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees. Cooling the fish slightly before the next step helps keep the filling from becoming runny.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

Flake the cooled salmon into a large mixing bowl, then add the chopped imitation crab meat, Japanese mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, sriracha, and low sodium soy sauce. Mix everything well to create a creamy, spicy, and savory filling that’s bursting with umami flavor.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Lightly press the cooled sushi rice into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, creating an even layer. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of furikake over the rice to introduce extra flavor and crunch. Next, spread the salmon and crab filling evenly over the rice layer. Pop the dish under the broiler for about 4 minutes until the top looks golden and bubbly. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

How to Serve Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe

A white rectangular dish contains a two-layered sushi bake with a portion scooped out. The bottom layer is white rice, moist and compact. The top layer is a creamy, pale orange mixture with bit of shredded light pink fish, topped with drizzles of a smooth, bright orange sauce in a zigzag pattern. There are small black and light brown sesame seeds sprinkled evenly across the surface, along with thin rings of bright green spring onions scattered on top. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Drizzle the top of your baked masterpiece with spicy mayo made from mixing mayonnaise, sriracha, and a squeeze of lime juice. Scatter plenty of freshly chopped green onions and sprinkle black and white sesame seeds over the top. These garnishes add vibrant color, extra flavor, and delightful crunch, transforming every bite into a party.

Side Dishes

Serving your Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe with thin slices of English cucumber and creamy avocado adds a refreshing coolness that perfectly balances the richness. Roasted seaweed sheets are fantastic for scooping and bring a subtle smoky saltiness. And don’t forget the unagi sauce drizzle — its sweet and savory depth pairs beautifully with the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Feel like jazzing things up? Serve your salmon sushi bake in individual ramekins for personal portions, or layer it over crispy rice crackers for a fusion take. For a crowd-pleaser, arrange it alongside a sushi board featuring fresh sashimi, pickled ginger, and wasabi for a complete sushi-themed feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day. Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to keep the rice moist.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes nicely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain texture and taste.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your salmon sushi bake is to warm it gently in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 15 minutes. This method keeps the topping creamy and the rice firm without turning soggy or overcooked. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh salmon works beautifully and will add a lovely vibrant flavor to your bake. Just be sure to check for any pin bones and bake it thoroughly.

Is it necessary to use imitation crab meat?

Not at all. You can substitute with cooked crab meat, shrimp, or even omit it for a pure salmon bake. Each variation will slightly change the texture and bite but still be delicious.

Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Yes! Just be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce and check the ingredients in your furikake and unagi sauce, as some brands may contain gluten.

How spicy is this Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe?

The level of spice can be adjusted easily by controlling the amount of sriracha in the filling and spicy mayo. Feel free to go milder or hotter depending on your preferences.

What can I use instead of Japanese mayonnaise?

If you don’t have Japanese mayo, regular mayonnaise will work fine, though Japanese mayo tends to be a bit tangier and creamier, which adds to the flavor complexity.

Final Thoughts

This Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe is an absolute gem for anyone who loves sushi but enjoys warm, hearty dishes. It’s simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and sure to impress guests with its layers of flavor and comforting textures. I cannot wait for you to try it — your next gathering or cozy night in just got a whole lot tastier!