If you love sushi but want an easy, comforting dish you can share with family and friends, this Sushi Bake Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine all the flavors of your favorite sushi rolls layered in a warm, cheesy casserole that’s simple to make yet impressive enough to bring to any gathering. The combination of fluffy seasoned rice, spicy seafood, and melty cheese baked to golden perfection creates a dish that satisfies every craving in one delightful bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, accessible ingredients that come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each element is essential: the sushi rice provides a slightly tangy base, the seafood mixture adds richness and spice, and the optional mozzarella introduces a ooey-gooey indulgence.
- 2 cups sushi rice: Properly cooked and seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt to achieve that classic sushi rice balance.
- 8 ounces imitation crab or cooked seafood: This is the star protein; feel free to swap for cooked shrimp or salmon for variety.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and binds the seafood mixture beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha: Gives the bake a spicy kick—adjust to your preferred heat level.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Brings depth and a touch of umami.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses a toasty nutty aroma.
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional): For a luscious, melted topping that contrasts nicely with the seafood.
- 4 sheets nori, cut into squares: These are perfect for scooping up each flavorful bite.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: Toasted for garnish to add crunch and subtle nuttiness.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Fresh garnish that brightens and adds a mild onion crunch.
How to Make Sushi Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice
Start by cooking your sushi rice according to the package instructions. While it’s still warm, gently fold in the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt mixture. This seasoning is what gives your rice that subtle zing that is synonymous with sushi and makes the casserole base flavorful rather than bland.
Step 2: Mix the Spicy Seafood Topping
In a small bowl, combine the chopped imitation crab or your choice of cooked seafood with mayonnaise, Sriracha, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix thoroughly until every bite will have that creamy, spicy goodness packed in. This mixture is the heart of the sushi bake, delivering that signature savory heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. Evenly spread your seasoned sushi rice as the base layer. Next, spoon your seafood mixture on top and spread it evenly over the rice to create a uniform layer. If you love a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top to elevate this dish with some gooey richness.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled dish in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the topping is slightly golden and warmed through. This bubbling, aromatic finish is what turns this from a simple casserole into an irresistible sushi-inspired dish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top for those final fresh, crunchy notes. These simple garnishes add an essential lift to every mouthful!
How to Serve Sushi Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions is all you need to enhance the flavor and texture here. For a little extra flair, try drizzling some unagi sauce or spicy mayo to complement the spicy seafood topping. These finishing touches bring brightness and complexity.
Side Dishes
This warm, savory sushi bake pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides. Consider a simple cucumber salad, edamame sprinkled with sea salt, or a bowl of miso soup to keep the meal balanced. The fresh vegetables and light soups provide a nice contrast to the rich casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the bake family-style and let everyone scoop their portion onto nori squares for a fun DIY sushi experience. Alternatively, serve alongside rice crackers or crispy wonton chips for a crunchy texture variation. You can even layer the bake in small ramekins for individual servings that look impressive and elegant.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sushi bake keeps beautifully covered in the fridge for 2 to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent the rice from drying out. Simply reheat before serving and enjoy as if freshly baked.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, though fresh is always best for sushi rice texture. Freeze baked portions in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to avoid overcooking.
Reheating
Reheat your sushi bake in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power, covered loosely, to maintain moisture without making the rice rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use real crab instead of imitation crab in the Sushi Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! Real crab will give your bake a more luxurious flavor. Just be sure it’s cooked and flaked, and adjust seasoning if your crab is already salty.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the seafood for finely chopped grilled vegetables or marinated tofu. Use vegetarian-friendly mayo and soy sauce to keep the flavors balanced.
How spicy is the Sushi Bake with 2 tablespoons of Sriracha?
The 2 tablespoons Sriracha offers a medium heat level that’s noticeable but not overwhelming. Feel free to reduce or increase the amount depending on your spice tolerance.
Can I prepare the sushi rice a day ahead?
You can cook and season the sushi rice a day in advance, but store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain freshness. Reheat gently before assembling your bake.
What other types of cheese work well instead of mozzarella?
Mild cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend of cheddar can work, but mozzarella offers the best meltiness and mild flavor that complements the seafood topping.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about this Sushi Bake Recipe—it’s fuss-free, comforting, and packed with all those Japanese-inspired flavors we crave. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a dish to impress guests, once you try it, it’s sure to become a beloved staple. So go ahead, dive in and share this crowd-pleaser with those you love!
Print
Sushi Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
Description
Sushi Bake is a delicious and easy-to-make Japanese-inspired casserole that layers flavorful sushi rice with a creamy, spicy seafood topping. Baked until golden and served with crunchy nori sheets, this dish offers a fun and handheld way to enjoy sushi at home without the rolling. Perfect for casual meals or gatherings, it’s versatile and customizable with different seafood varieties and spice levels.
Ingredients
Sushi Rice
- 2 cups sushi rice, cooked and seasoned with 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt
Seafood Topping
- 8 ounces imitation crab or cooked seafood, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Garnish and Serving
- 4 sheets nori, cut into squares for serving
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the sushi bake.
- Prepare Seafood Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the chopped crab or seafood with mayonnaise, Sriracha, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated for a creamy, spicy topping.
- Assemble Sushi Bake: Spread the cooked and seasoned sushi rice evenly in a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. Evenly spread the prepared seafood mixture over the rice.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the seafood mixture for added flavor and creaminess.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the topping is slightly golden and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve warm with nori squares so guests can scoop the bake onto nori and enjoy as handheld bites.
Notes
- Use cooked shrimp, salmon, or a combination of seafood instead of imitation crab for a different flavor.
- Adjust the amount of Sriracha to control the spice level according to your preference.
- For extra flavor, drizzle the sushi bake with unagi sauce or spicy mayonnaise just before serving.
