Salmon Sushi Bake
Salmon Sushi Bake is a delightful and innovative twist on traditional sushi that brings the flavors of your favorite rolls into a comforting casserole. This dish not only combines the rich and buttery taste of salmon with the creaminess of cream cheese, but it also presents beautifully, making it a perfect option for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re a sushi lover or just looking for something different to serve at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes this Salmon Sushi Bake truly special is its ability to deliver sushi flavors in a simple, fuss-free way. You can whip it up in under an hour, making it a fantastic weeknight meal for busy families or a cozy dish to share during gatherings with friends. The combination of ingredients is not only delicious but also highlights the nutritional benefits of salmon while keeping everything creamy and satisfying.
"This Salmon Sushi Bake was a hit at our family dinner! The kids loved it, and they didn’t even notice the salmon — just pure deliciousness!"
Step-by-step overview
Making a Salmon Sushi Bake is easier than you might think. The process involves cooking sushi rice, baking the salmon, and layering everything in a baking dish before giving it a final bake. With clear steps and delicious results, you’re just a few ingredients away from a comforting and flavorful dish that’s bound to become a favorite.
What you’ll need
Gather these items for your Salmon Sushi Bake:
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 lb salmon fillet
- 8 oz imitation crab, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sriracha
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- Nori sheets (for serving)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
For a lighter option, you can substitute the imitation crab with real crab if you have access to it, or use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier twist.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
- Cook the rinsed rice in a pot with 2 1/2 cups of water until tender.
- While the rice cooks, place the salmon in the oven to bake until fully cooked; this should take around 15 minutes. Once cool, flake the salmon into pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sriracha, and soy sauce. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Once the rice is done, spread it evenly across a baking dish to form the base.
- Layer the flaked salmon and shredded imitation crab over the rice evenly.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the fish layer and finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until everything is heated through and the top is golden.
- Serve warm, accompanied by nori sheets and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Salmon Sushi Bake is quite versatile. You can cut it into squares and serve it like a casserole, offering nori sheets on the side for everyone to create their own wraps. Pair it with a simple cucumber salad or miso soup to balance the rich flavors, or enjoy it alongside some pickled ginger for added zest.
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (though you probably won’t!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which keeps the texture nice and creamy. You can freeze it as well, but for the best taste, it’s recommended to consume within a month and reheat directly from frozen until fully warmed.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure to rinse the sushi rice properly to achieve the right texture; this step is crucial for the perfect chewy bite.
- If you’re short on time, consider using canned salmon for convenience—just make sure to drain it well before using.
- Want some extra spice? Add more sriracha to the cream cheese mixture or serve with additional hot sauce on the side.
Creative twists
Feel free to customize this recipe! You could add avocado slices for creaminess, use different seafood like shrimp or scallops, or even make it vegetarian by replacing seafood with marinated tofu or grilled mushrooms. For a quick flavor change, try different sauces—like using teriyaki instead of soy sauce—for a sweet twist.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
The total prep and cooking time for Salmon Sushi Bake is about 45 minutes, making it a quick yet satisfying meal.
Can I use brown rice instead of sushi rice?
You can use brown rice, but keep in mind it will require a longer cooking time and may alter the final texture of the dish.
What should I serve with it?
This dish pairs wonderfully with light salads, steamed vegetables, or an Asian-style coleslaw to balance the richness.
With its harmony of flavors and ease of preparation, the Salmon Sushi Bake is a wonderful way to bring beloved sushi elements into a comforting family dish. Whether for a quick dinner or a fun gathering, it’s sure to be a hit every time!
Salmon Sushi Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
- Cook the rinsed rice in a pot with 2 1/2 cups of water until tender.
- While the rice cooks, place the salmon in the oven to bake until fully cooked; this should take around 15 minutes. Once cool, flake the salmon into pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sriracha, and soy sauce. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Once the rice is done, spread it evenly across a baking dish to form the base.
- Layer the flaked salmon and shredded imitation crab over the rice evenly.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the fish layer and finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until everything is heated through and the top is golden.
- Serve warm, accompanied by nori sheets and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like.
