There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy dish that brings together the flavors of sushi in a novel way. Salmon Sushi Bake is that delightful creation that elevates a familiar favorite into a shareable, family-style meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back gatherings, this recipe is not just delicious; it’s an embrace of umami and creaminess that would make anyone second guess their sushi orders. I can attest, there’s nothing quite like watching your loved ones dig into a dish that’s as fun to prepare as it is to eat.
Why you’ll love this dish
If you’re a fan of sushi, you’ll adore this baked version that’s both quick and easy to prepare. The Salmon Sushi Bake merges the best elements of sushi with the comfort of a casserole—ensuring everyone gets a taste without the fuss of rolling individual pieces. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights, special occasions, or even a weekend brunch feast.
"I made this for my family dinner, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about it! It was so satisfying, and I loved that it was so easy to make!"
Beyond flavor, the recipe is budget-friendly and offers a perfect canvas for personalization. Whether you prefer a hint of spice or extra toppings, this dish allows your creativity to shine while staying kid-approved!
Step-by-step overview
In just a few simple steps, you can create this mouthwatering Salmon Sushi Bake. First, you’ll prepare the sushi rice, then mix up the flavorful salmon and crab creaminess, and finally, layer it all up for baking. Trust me, this dish comes together with minimal effort and maximum reward!
What you’ll need
To make this incredible Salmon Sushi Bake, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 pound salmon, cooked and flaked
- 1 cup imitation crab, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup spicy mayo
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 sheet nori, cut into strips
- Soy sauce, for serving
Feel free to substitute the imitation crab with real crab if you’re looking for an authentic taste, or swap out the spicy mayo for regular mayonnaise mixed with a dash of hot sauce if you’d prefer less heat.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the sushi rice per package instructions, combining it with the water. Spread the cooked rice evenly in a baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flaked salmon, chopped imitation crab, softened cream cheese, and spicy mayo until combined and creamy.
- Layer the salmon and crab mixture over the sushi rice, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Once done, remove from the oven and garnish it with sliced green onions and nori strips.
- Serve hot with soy sauce on the side for dipping.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Salmon Sushi Bake shines when served fresh and hot straight from the oven. Pair it with a colorful side of pickled veggies or a light cucumber salad to balance out the richness of the dish. For the ultimate experience, consider providing additional sauces like eel sauce or sriracha for those who enjoy a bit of kick!
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers—lucky you! Store any unconsumed portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it may result in a rubbery texture.
Pro chef tips
To take your Salmon Sushi Bake to the next level, consider these cooking tips:
- Fluff your sushi rice well after cooking to ensure it’s not too clumpy; this helps in spreading it evenly.
- Mixing the cream cheese and spicy mayo thoroughly not only enhances the flavor but ensures a creamy texture that binds the salmon and crab mixture together.
- Don’t skip on the garnish—those green onions and nori strips make a big visual impact and provide great texture.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few creative variations to consider:
- Add sliced avocado on top before baking for a creamy texture.
- Swap in other seafood, like shrimp or scallops, to customize the protein.
- Use a crunchier topping such as panko breadcrumbs mixed with sesame seeds for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Common questions
What’s the prep time for Salmon Sushi Bake?
Prep time is around 15-20 minutes, with about 20 minutes of baking time, making it a quick yet satisfying dish.Can I use brown rice instead of sushi rice?
Although you can use brown rice, it may alter the texture and flavor of the dish. Sushi rice is essential for that authentic and sticky consistency.How long can leftovers last?
Properly stored in the fridge, leftovers can be kept for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving again.
Embrace the joy of making this uniquely delicious Salmon Sushi Bake and watch your family fall in love with it, bite by creamy bite!
Print
Salmon Sushi Bake
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A comforting, cheesy dish that brings together the flavors of sushi in a baked form, perfect for family meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 pound salmon, cooked and flaked
- 1 cup imitation crab, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup spicy mayo
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 sheet nori, cut into strips
- Soy sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the sushi rice per package instructions, combining it with the water. Spread the cooked rice evenly in a baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flaked salmon, chopped imitation crab, softened cream cheese, and spicy mayo until combined and creamy.
- Layer the salmon and crab mixture over the sushi rice, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with sliced green onions and nori strips.
- Serve hot with soy sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
Feel free to substitute imitation crab with real crab or adjust the mayo for less heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese