If you ever wondered how to turn simple pantry staples into a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish, this Sushi Bake with Canned Tuna and Avocado Recipe is your answer. Combining the creamy richness of mayo and cream cheese with the fresh pop of avocado and the hearty flavor of canned tuna, this baked sushi mashup is both easy and utterly addictive. The layers of seasoned rice, furikake, and golden-baked topping make every bite feel like a warm embrace, perfect for sharing or devouring all by yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a blue and white bowl filled with shredded light beige tuna mixed with a creamy sauce, with some visible brown flakes on top, placed slightly off-center on a crumpled beige cloth over a white marbled surface. A silver fork is resting inside the bowl on the right side. Around the bowl, there are three whole dark green avocados and a small white bowl with light-colored seeds nearby. The scene is lit softly, emphasizing textures and colors, with a woman's hand barely touching the edge of the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but play essential roles in building the flavor, texture, and visual appeal of your sushi bake. Each item contributes something special — from the tangy rice seasoning to the crunchy sesame seeds and creamy tuna blend — making this recipe a beautifully balanced dish.

1 cup uncooked short grain rice: The foundation of sushi, it becomes sticky and tender when cooked perfectly.
¼ cup rice vinegar: Adds the signature tangy sushi flavor; you can also use sushi seasoning as a shortcut.
1 tablespoon white sugar: Balances the acidity with just a hint of sweetness.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
¼ to ⅓ cup furikake seasoning: Brings a delightful crunch and burst of umami from seaweed and sesame seeds.
¾ cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness to the tuna mix.
3 tablespoons cream cheese: Deepens the creamy texture and complements the mayo beautifully.
2 cans tuna: The protein star of the dish, conveniently packed and flavorful.
1 avocado (sliced and cold): Freshness and buttery smoothness that balance the savory layers.
Sesame oil (for drizzling): A fragrant touch that adds a nutty aroma.
1 sprig green onions (sliced thin): A subtle sharpness and color contrast.
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (lightly toasted): Adds crunch and visual appeal with a mix of white and black seeds.
Nori sheet (roasted and cut into rectangles): For serving, these crisp seaweed sheets wrap the baked sushi bites perfectly.

How to Make Sushi Bake with Canned Tuna and Avocado Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Base

Start by cooking your short grain rice just like you normally would. If you have dried kelp, tossing a piece into the pot adds a subtle depth of flavor that’s a lovely gift from the sea. This sticky and tender rice is the canvas for everything that comes next.

Step 2: Season the Rice

While the rice cooks, gently heat the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in the microwave until the sugar dissolves. This mixture will infuse the rice with that essential sushi tang. If time is tight, a pre-made sushi seasoning blend will do the trick just as well.

Step 3: Mix the Tuna Filling

Drain the canned tuna well, then fold it together with the mayonnaise and softened cream cheese until you achieve a smooth, creamy mixture. This luscious blend is what makes the bake irresistibly rich and comforting.

Step 4: Combine Rice and Seasoning

Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Use a flat spatula or rice paddle to fold in your vinegar seasoning carefully by cutting and folding motions rather than stirring, so the rice remains fluffy and not mushy. A drizzle of sesame oil here can add a smoky, nutty undertone reminiscent of Korean kimbap.

Step 5: Assemble the Layers

Lightly oil your baking dish with sesame oil for an optional crispy rice bottom, then spread the seasoned rice evenly. Sprinkle half the furikake on top, followed by the creamy tuna mixture, and finish with the remaining furikake. If you like a spicy kick, now is the perfect time to add chili flakes. Taste a small spoonful at this stage to ensure your flavors are on point — adjusting is always encouraged!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop your assembled dish into a preheated oven at 425°F (218°C) and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The top should turn golden brown and bubbly, signaling that creamy, savory crown is ready to delight.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

While the bake is in the oven, slice cold avocado, chop green onions, and toast sesame seeds. Once out of the oven, artfully arrange these garnishes on top. Serve warm with crisp nori sheets and, if you like, some sliced cucumber and pickled ginger for that refreshing crunch and zing.

How to Serve Sushi Bake with Canned Tuna and Avocado Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a wooden spoon holding a bite of food with layers: white rice at the bottom, topped with a brown crumbly layer and a thin slice of green avocado on top. In the background, on a white marbled surface, there is a white plate with more of the same dish, arranged with avocado slices on top and light drizzle across it. Some green leaves and food packages are blurred in the distant background. A woman's hand holds the spoon from the upper right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh avocado slices cool the palate and add a creamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the warm, golden-baked tuna topping. Scattered green onions provide pops of color and a mild oniony bite. Toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top lend a subtle crunch and nutty aroma that elevate the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This sushi bake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like crisp cucumber slices for refreshing crunch or a small bowl of pickled ginger to cleanse the palate between bites. A light seaweed salad also complements the dish’s flavors beautifully without overpowering the main event.

Creative Ways to Present

You can get playful by serving the bake in individual ramekins for personal portions or assembling mini sushi bake bites on nori rectangles, making for fun, hand-held treats. Alternatively, offer it family-style in a large dish, letting everyone scoop and wrap as they please for a communal, interactive meal experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your sushi bake, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next day just as delicious. Consume within 2 to 3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the sushi bake for up to a month. Make sure it’s well wrapped in freezer-safe packaging. When thawed, note that the avocado garnish is best added fresh after reheating to maintain its creamy texture and vibrant color.

Reheating

Reheat your sushi bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the top nice and crisp. Add fresh avocado and garnishes just before serving to keep the dish fresh and bright.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

While fresh tuna can be delicious, the flavor and texture of canned tuna lend themselves well to this baked dish, providing a creamy, easy-to-mix filling. If using fresh tuna, consider cooking and flaking it before mixing with mayo and cream cheese.

Is this sushi bake gluten-free?

Yes! Using naturally gluten-free ingredients like rice, canned tuna, avocado, and nori makes this dish safe for gluten-free diets. Just check any packaged seasonings like furikake for hidden gluten-containing additives.

Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Swap canned tuna for mashed chickpeas or seasoned tofu, and use vegan mayo and cream cheese alternatives. The seasoning and rice will still deliver plenty of umami and comfort.

Why do you fold the rice instead of stirring?

Folding the rice preserves the delicate grains’ texture and prevents them from becoming mushy. Stirring can crush and overwork the rice, which affects both the appearance and mouthfeel of your sushi bake.

What can I use if I don’t have furikake?

No worries! You can sprinkle toasted sesame seeds mixed with a little seaweed flakes, or use your favorite seasoning blend that includes salt and umami flavors to mimic the furikake’s effect.

Final Thoughts

This Sushi Bake with Canned Tuna and Avocado Recipe is a delightful twist on classic sushi that’s approachable, crowd-friendly, and loaded with comforting flavors. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this baked sushi brings warmth, flavor, and a bit of fun to your table. Give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!