Description

Salmon Sushi Bake is a deliciously comforting twist on traditional sushi, combining savory cooked salmon, imitation crab, cream cheese, and spicy Sriracha mayo layered over seasoned sushi rice, then baked to perfection. This viral recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for sharing as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice Base

2 cups uncooked sushi rice
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp white sugar
½ tsp salt

Seafood Mixture

10 oz imitation crab
8 oz salmon (about 2 cups shredded cooked salmon)
4 oz cream cheese
⅓ cup Sriracha mayo (or substitute with mayonnaise mixed with Sriracha chili sauce)

Toppings and Garnishes

Furikake seasoning
Seaweed snacks, for serving
Sesame seeds (optional)
Chopped green onion

Instructions

Cook the sushi rice: Prepare the sushi rice according to its package instructions, ensuring it is fully cooked and tender.
Prepare the sushi rice seasoning: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Microwave for about 30 seconds or until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Pour this mixture over the cooked rice and gently fold to combine. Set aside.
Cook the salmon: Season the salmon with salt and pepper. Cook it either in an air fryer at 400°F (204°C) for 10-12 minutes or bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-17 minutes until fully cooked. Once cooled slightly, shred the salmon into pieces.
Prepare the seafood mixture: In a large bowl, shred the imitation crab and combine it with the shredded cooked salmon. Add cream cheese and Sriracha mayo, then mix everything thoroughly until smooth and evenly combined.
Preheat oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Use a 9×9 inch or 9×13 inch baking dish for assembling the bake.
Assemble the sushi bake: Transfer the seasoned sushi rice into the baking dish and gently press it to form an even layer. Sprinkle a generous amount of furikake seasoning over the rice. Then, spread the salmon and crab mixture evenly on top, pressing gently to smooth out the surface.
Bake the sushi bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the top to get slightly warm and cohesive.
Add final toppings: Remove the sushi bake from the oven and top with additional Sriracha mayo, chili furikake, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions for extra flavor and texture.
Serve: Scoop servings of the sushi bake and wrap them in seaweed snacks for a perfect bite. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

Substitute Sriracha mayo with a simple blend of mayonnaise and Sriracha chili sauce if needed.
Salmon can be cooked in the air fryer or baked in the oven depending on your preference and available equipment.
Use furikake generously to add umami and flavor to the rice base.
Seaweed snacks are used as wraps but you can substitute with nori sheets if available.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh after baking to maintain texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Japanese-American Fusion

Keywords: salmon sushi bake, sushi casserole, baked sushi, imitation crab sushi, spicy salmon bake, Sriracha mayo sushi, easy sushi recipe, seafood bake