If you are craving a dish that fuses the comforting warmth of a casserole with the vibrant flavors of sushi, then this Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender salmon mingling with creamy cream cheese, perfectly seasoned sushi rice, and a gentle kick of spice—all baked into a golden, bubbly delight that serves a crowd effortlessly. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this dish brings an irresistible mix of textures and flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two parts: on the left is a baked salmon piece on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, the salmon has a golden-brown color with pepper seasoning on top and a slightly crispy texture on the surface. On the right is a clear glass bowl filled with a creamy, light pink mixture that looks like flaked salmon mixed with mayonnaise or cream, sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is the secret behind this Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe’s luscious taste. Each component plays an essential role—from the delicate sushi rice that forms a sticky, flavorful base, to the rich cream cheese which adds creaminess, and the zesty toppings that bring it all to life.

2 cups dry sushi rice: This short-grain rice becomes perfectly sticky and chewy, ideal for that authentic sushi bake texture.
2 cups water: For cooking the rice to fluffy softness without being mushy.
1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar: Adds that tangy note that balances sweetness and sharpness in sushi rice.
1 1/2 lb salmon fillet: The star ingredient, providing tender, flaky richness and healthy omega-3s.
Salt & pepper to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance the natural salmon flavor.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds subtle depth and warmth to the salmon.
8 oz imitation crab meat, chopped: Offers a delightful seafood twist and texture contrast.
1/2 cup Japanese mayonnaise: Creamy with a slight tang that complements the seafood beautifully.
4 oz cream cheese, softened: Brings luscious creaminess that melts into every bite.
1 Tbsp sriracha: Gives the perfect spicy kick to keep things exciting and balanced.
1 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce: Adds umami richness and salty depth.
2 Tbsp furikake: A savory Japanese seasoning loaded with sesame seeds, seaweed flakes, and fish flakes for extra flavor and texture.
Spicy mayo (mayo + sriracha + lime juice): This topping adds creamy heat and zest.
Green onion: Brings a fresh crunch and mild oniony bite.
Black and white sesame seeds: For nutty flavor and a beautiful garnish.
Roasted seaweed: Perfect for scooping and wrapping.
Unagi sauce (eel sauce): Sweet and savory drizzle to elevate each serving.
English cucumber: Adds a cool crunch as a refreshing side.
Avocado slices: Creamy slices that pair perfectly with the rich bake.

How to Make Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice

Start by rinsing 2 cups of sushi rice under cold running water using a fine-mesh sieve. Keep stirring gently to wash away excess starch until the water runs clear—this step prevents the rice from becoming gummy. Then, add the rice with 2 cups of water to your rice cooker, and cook until perfectly tender. Once done, transfer the rice to a rimmed baking sheet and gently fold in 1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar using a rice paddle or wooden spoon; be careful to softly mix without mashing the grains. Let the rice cool completely—this is what gives your bake that wonderful sushi rice texture.

Step 2: Season and Bake the Salmon

Pat the 1 1/2 lb salmon fillet dry, then season evenly with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Place it on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 20 minutes. The goal is a flaky interior with an internal temperature reaching at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit. After baking, let your salmon cool—this will make mixing easier and ensure the flavors meld nicely.

Step 3: Mix the Seafood Filling

Once the salmon is cooled, break it into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl. Add 8 ounces of chopped imitation crab meat, 1/2 cup Japanese mayonnaise, 4 ounces softened cream cheese, 1 tablespoon sriracha, and 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce. Blend everything thoroughly until smooth and well combined. This filling is the heart of the Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe—rich, creamy, with a little spicy kick to keep your taste buds dancing.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Sushi Bake

Spread the cooled sushi rice evenly on the bottom of a greased baking dish. Layer your seafood mixture on top, smoothing it into an even layer. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of furikake evenly over the top for that irresistible savory crunch. Pop the dish in the oven once more and bake for about 10 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until it’s bubbling and slightly golden on top—this finishing step melds the flavors and adds a delightful warmth to every bite.

How to Serve Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe

This image shows a layered sushi casserole in a white rectangular dish placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is white rice with visible small green bits mixed in. The middle layer is creamy, light orange with shredded pieces of salmon mixed in. The top layer is made of bright orange drizzle sauce with green chopped scallions and a sprinkle of black and white sesame seeds. A portion of the casserole has been removed, showing clear clean layers and texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To really bring this dish to life, top it with a drizzle of your homemade spicy mayo, a sprinkle of black and white sesame seeds, and a handful of finely sliced green onions. These garnishes add freshness, color, and extra layers of flavor that create a feast for your eyes and your palate.

Side Dishes

Serve the Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe alongside sheets of roasted seaweed for scooping, slices of creamy avocado, and crisp English cucumber for refreshing contrast. A small dish of unagi sauce on the side is fantastic for those who love a touch of sweetness and umami with their bite. Together, these sides make the meal interactive and fun.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, serve this bake directly from the casserole dish with individual portions scooped into small bowls or onto plates lined with seaweed. Another fun idea is to turn it into sushi bake bowls—layer the bake base with steamed rice, then the salmon mix, and top with your favorite garnishes in individual glass jars or bowls for easy grab-and-go enjoyment.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled ensures the flavors remain vibrant, and the creamy filling maintains its perfect texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the bake for up to one month by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge to preserve that delicate texture and flavor balance.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through. This method keeps the top slightly crispy while ensuring the bake stays creamy and delicious without drying out. Avoid microwaving as it can lead to uneven heating and texture loss.

FAQs

Can I use fresh crab meat instead of imitation crab?

Absolutely! Fresh crab meat will boost the flavor and texture, making the dish even more indulgent. Just be sure to lightly shred or chop it for even mixing.

Is this recipe gluten free?

Yes, this Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe is naturally gluten free as long as you use low sodium soy sauce that is labeled gluten free and confirm that your other ingredients like furikake don’t contain gluten additives.

Can I substitute salmon with another fish?

You can! This recipe works nicely with other flaky fish like cod or halibut, but salmon’s richness really makes the dish shine. Choose a firm fish to hold up to baking.

What’s the best way to adjust the spice level?

If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of sriracha or omit it from the filling and spicy mayo, adding it gradually to taste. You can also swap sriracha for a milder chili sauce if preferred.

Can I make this recipe dairy free?

For a dairy-free version, try replacing cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use a dairy-free mayo. This keeps the creamy texture while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace and a delightful celebration all at once. It’s simple yet impressive, creamy yet fresh, and perfectly suited to sharing with loved ones. If you love sushi flavors but want something cozy and bake-friendly, this recipe is made for you. Give it a whirl—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a household favorite!