Sushi bake is a delicious, deconstructed sushi casserole that’s creamy, savory, and packed with umami flavors. This easy, no-roll recipe combines sushi rice, seafood, and a flavorful mayo topping, baked to perfection. Perfect for parties or a quick family meal!
Sushi Bake: A Deconstructed Sushi Casserole
What is Sushi Bake?
Sushi bake is a delicious, deconstructed sushi casserole that’s creamy, savory, and packed with umami flavors. This easy, no-roll recipe combines sushi rice, seafood, and a flavorful mayo topping, baked to perfection. Perfect for parties or a quick family meal, it offers the delightful taste of sushi in a warm and comforting format.
The Origin of Sushi Bake
Sushi bake is a modern fusion dish inspired by Japanese flavors but presented in a baked casserole format. This dish became popular in the Philippines as an easy, shareable way to enjoy sushi without the need for rolling individual pieces. The convenience and bold flavors have made it a global favorite.
Why is Sushi Bake So Popular?
Sushi bake is beloved for its creamy, umami-packed flavors and ease of preparation. Unlike traditional sushi, there’s no need to master rolling techniques—just layer the ingredients, bake, and serve with nori sheets. It’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, and meal prepping.
Is Sushi Bake Similar to Traditional Sushi?
While sushi bake shares familiar ingredients with traditional sushi—such as sushi rice, seafood, and Japanese mayo—it is a deconstructed version. Instead of delicate rolls, it’s baked in a pan and served as a scoopable dish, making it a great option for those who love sushi flavors but prefer a simpler preparation method.
Ingredients Needed for Sushi Bake
To make sushi bake, you’ll need a few essential sushi ingredients. High-quality Japanese mayo, furikake, and nori sheets enhance the flavor of this dish.
Base Ingredients (Sushi Rice Layer)
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp furikake (Japanese rice seasoning)
Protein Options (Seafood Choices)
- 1 cup imitation crab (or real crab)
- 1/2 cup cooked salmon (or canned tuna)
- 1/4 cup cooked shrimp (optional)
Creamy Topping & Seasoning
- 1/2 cup Japanese mayo (Kewpie)
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
Toppings & Garnishes
- 1 tbsp furikake
- 1 tbsp green onions (chopped)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- 1 pack nori (seaweed sheets) for serving
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sushi Bake
Step 1 – Prepare the Sushi Rice
Start by cooking sushi rice according to the package instructions, ensuring it’s perfectly sticky. Once it’s cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and allow it to cool slightly. While it’s still warm, gently mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves completely. This combination helps create that authentic sushi rice flavor, balancing the tanginess with just the right amount of sweetness. Spread the rice evenly across the bottom of a baking dish to form a solid base. Finally, sprinkle furikake seasoning generously on top to give your rice that irresistible umami boost.
Step 2 – Mix the Seafood and Creamy Topping
Now it’s time to prepare the seafood mixture. Start by shredding the imitation crab or real crab into small, bite-sized pieces. If you’re using cooked salmon, flake it into the mixture as well. In a mixing bowl, combine the seafood with creamy Japanese mayo and softened cream cheese. Stir in a splash of soy sauce and a dash of sriracha for a subtle heat and extra flavor. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy, creating a luscious topping that will perfectly complement the sushi rice below. The creamy texture and umami-packed flavors make this layer irresistible.
Step 3 – Assemble and Bake
With the rice and seafood mixture ready, it’s time to assemble the sushi bake. Carefully spread the creamy seafood mixture over the prepared sushi rice, ensuring that it covers the entire surface. Use a spatula to gently press down, creating an even layer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the dish inside for about 15 to 20 minutes. The goal is to bake until the top turns golden brown and bubbly, developing a crispy texture while the creamy filling becomes even more delicious. The heat from the oven melds all the flavors together for a perfect finish.
Step 4 – Serve and Enjoy
Once the sushi bake is out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. This will help the layers set and make it easier to scoop. For serving, scoop generous portions onto nori sheets, just like you would for hand rolls. Enjoy the sushi bake immediately, savoring the warm, comforting flavors. If you like, drizzle some extra soy sauce or a bit more sriracha for an added kick. For an authentic sushi experience, serve it with wasabi and pickled ginger on the side. This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with its rich and creamy layers.
Tips and Variations for the Best Sushi Bake
How to Make a Spicy Sushi Bake
For an extra kick, add more sriracha to the creamy topping or drizzle spicy mayo over the baked dish. You can also sprinkle chopped jalapeños or add a dash of hot sauce.
Alternative Protein Options
If you want to try different seafood options, consider shrimp, scallops, or tuna instead of crab and salmon. For a vegetarian version, use mashed chickpeas or plant-based seafood substitutes.
Can You Make Sushi Bake Without an Oven?
Yes! If you don’t have an oven, you can use an air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Alternatively, heat the sushi bake on a stovetop in a covered pan for a few minutes until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
How to Serve Sushi Bake
Sushi bake is best served by scooping portions onto nori sheets, similar to a hand roll. Pair it with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger for a more authentic sushi experience.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover sushi bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Can You Freeze Sushi Bake?
Yes! You can prepare sushi bake ahead of time and freeze it before baking. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Sushi bake is a fun, easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of sushi into a warm and creamy casserole. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family meal, or simply craving sushi flavors with less effort, this recipe is a must-try. With endless variations, it’s a dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your sushi bake adventure!