Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love sushi but want a more filling, comforting version, this Sushi Salmon Bake is for you. The combination of tender salmon, seasoned rice, and a rich, creamy topping is irresistible. The dish is easy to prepare, and the warm, melty texture makes it perfect for sharing. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a party dish, this recipe will become a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
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1 lb fresh salmon fillets, skinless and boneless
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2 cups sushi rice (cooked according to package instructions)
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1 tablespoon salt
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½ cup mayonnaise (preferably Japanese Kewpie mayo)
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2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to spice preference)
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 teaspoon sesame oil
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon furikake seasoning (optional)
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1-2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
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1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
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1 tablespoon nori strips (optional for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the salmon: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season with salt and pepper, then bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
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Prepare the rice: While the salmon is baking, cook the sushi rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, transfer the rice to a large bowl. While it’s still warm, stir in the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Let the rice cool slightly.
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Make the creamy topping: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and well combined.
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Assemble the dish: Flake the cooled salmon into bite-sized pieces and gently mix it with the cooked sushi rice in a baking dish (around 9×9 inches). Spread the salmon-rice mixture evenly. Spoon the creamy sauce mixture on top and spread it out evenly to cover the salmon and rice.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
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Garnish and serve: Remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and nori strips (if using). Serve warm.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: This recipe makes about 4-6 servings.
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Prep time: 10 minutes.
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Cook time: 30-35 minutes.
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Total time: 40-45 minutes.
Variations
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Vegetarian version: Swap the salmon for tofu or tempeh, and add a little extra soy sauce or miso paste for flavor.
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Spicy tuna: Substitute the salmon with canned or fresh tuna mixed with sriracha, mayo, and soy sauce for a spicy tuna version.
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Add vegetables: Feel free to add some thinly sliced vegetables like cucumber or avocado to the dish for extra freshness.
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Gluten-free: Ensure that the soy sauce you use is gluten-free or substitute it with tamari.
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Make it extra cheesy: Add a layer of shredded vegan or regular cheese on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Leftover Sushi Salmon Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish instead of salmon?
Yes, you can use other types of fish, such as tuna, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time based on the fish you choose.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then cover it and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Kewpie mayo?
Kewpie mayo has a distinct flavor that’s creamier and slightly sweeter than regular mayo, but you can substitute with regular mayo if needed.
Is this recipe spicy?
The dish can be spicy if you use sriracha sauce. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha to the creamy topping.
What is furikake, and do I need it?
Furikake is a Japanese seasoning blend often used on rice. It includes ingredients like sesame seeds, nori, and dried fish. While optional, it adds extra flavor and texture to the dish.
Can I use brown rice instead of sushi rice?
Sushi rice is recommended for its sticky texture, but you can use brown rice for a healthier alternative. The texture will be different, though.
Can I use a different type of topping instead of mayonnaise?
You can use vegan mayonnaise or a cashew-based creamy sauce if you prefer a dairy-free option.
How can I adjust the sweetness in the dish?
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to the rice mixture. Taste it before mixing it into the rice and adjust accordingly.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make the dish gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and double-check that other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I freeze Sushi Salmon Bake?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the rice may change texture when thawed. However, it can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days for easy leftovers.
Conclusion
Sushi Salmon Bake is the perfect dish for sushi lovers who want a warm, satisfying meal. The combination of seasoned salmon, sushi rice, and a creamy, spicy topping is irresistible. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will definitely be a hit!
PrintSushi Salmon Bake
Sushi Salmon Bake is a delicious fusion dish that combines the creamy, savory flavors of sushi with the comforting, hearty texture of a baked casserole. This dish is perfect for those who love sushi but want something warm and satisfying. With layers of seasoned salmon, rice, and a creamy topping, it brings the essence of sushi to the comfort of your oven. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this baked sushi will impress everyone with its rich flavors and unique twist on traditional sushi.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillets, skinless and boneless
2 cups sushi rice (cooked according to package instructions)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon salt
½ cup mayonnaise (preferably Japanese Kewpie mayo)
2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to spice preference)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon furikake seasoning (optional)
1–2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
1 tablespoon nori strips (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season with salt and pepper, then bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- While the salmon is baking, cook the sushi rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, transfer the rice to a large bowl. While it’s still warm, stir in the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Let the rice cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Flake the cooled salmon into bite-sized pieces and gently mix it with the cooked sushi rice in a baking dish (around 9×9 inches). Spread the salmon-rice mixture evenly. Spoon the creamy sauce mixture on top and spread it out evenly to cover the salmon and rice.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and nori strips (if using). Serve warm.
Notes
- Vegetarian version: Swap the salmon for tofu or tempeh, and add a little extra soy sauce or miso paste for flavor.
- Spicy tuna: Substitute the salmon with canned or fresh tuna mixed with sriracha, mayo, and soy sauce for a spicy tuna version.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add some thinly sliced vegetables like cucumber or avocado to the dish for extra freshness.
- Gluten-free: Ensure that the soy sauce you use is gluten-free or substitute it with tamari.
- Make it extra cheesy: Add a layer of shredded vegan or regular cheese on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg