Name: Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Japanese Fusion
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked sushi rice; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; ½ teaspoon sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; 12 oz skinless salmon fillet, cooked and flaked; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 sheets roasted seaweed (nori), cut into small squares; 2 green onions, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 41 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that captures the bold zest of sushi with a warm, comforting twist, the Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. This baked delight layers perfectly seasoned sushi rice with a creamy, spicy salmon mixture, all topped with molten mozzarella cheese that gives a golden, bubbly finish. Each bite offers an irresistible harmony of textures and flavors, from the tender fish to the tangy heat, making this recipe an absolute showstopper that you can easily impress friends and family with, no sushi rolling skills needed!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an assortment of sushi ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. At the center is a vacuum-sealed piece of wild Alaskan sockeye salmon fillet with a red and white label. Around it are small white bowls filled with light yellow mayonnaise, dark soy sauce, black sesame seeds, a red sauce, white salt, and a white powder. On the left, a white plate holds two dark green seaweed sheets. Below are fresh green onions, two small dark green cucumbers, a ripe dark green avocado, and a small container of Furikake seasoning. A large white bowl filled with white sushi rice completes the setup. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting your ingredients ready for this Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe is straightforward but crucial, as each one plays a key role in delivering the signature flavors and textures that make this dish so irresistible. From the tangy sushi rice to the spicy, creamy topping, every component enhances the overall experience.

2 cups cooked sushi rice: The foundation of the dish, providing that sticky, slightly sweet base that holds everything together.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang that brightens the rice and balances flavors.
½ teaspoon sugar: Enhances sweetness for a perfectly seasoned rice.
½ teaspoon salt: Crucial for seasoning the rice and bringing out all the flavors.
12 oz skinless salmon fillet, cooked and flaked: The star protein that’s tender and juicy, blending beautifully with the spicy mayo.
¼ cup mayonnaise: Creates a rich, creamy texture that binds the salmon and heat together.
2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce: Brings the perfect kick of spicy heat that wakes up the palate.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a savory depth and umami flavor.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses a delicate, nutty aroma that elevates the dish.
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a deliciously gooey, golden layer on top.
2 sheets roasted seaweed (nori), cut into small squares: Perfect for scooping and adding that classic sushi flavor.
2 green onions, thinly sliced: Provide a fresh, crisp contrast with subtle sharpness.
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: Adds crunchy texture and a nutty accent to finish.

How to Make Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Rice

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly greasing an 8×8-inch baking dish. This ensures nothing sticks and your sushi bake can slide out easily. Next, combine the warm cooked sushi rice with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. The mix of vinegar and sugar is what gives sushi rice that classic tangy-sweet flavor. Press the rice firmly and evenly into the bottom of your baking dish, creating a solid base layer that sets the stage for the delicious toppings to come.

Step 2: Mix the Spicy Salmon Topping

In a separate bowl, bring together the flaked cooked salmon, mayonnaise, Sriracha, soy sauce, and sesame oil. This combination creates a luscious, spicy, and savory topping that complements the mild rice underneath. Make sure everything is well combined so each bite delivers that vibrant flavor. This step is where the magic really starts to shine, giving the dish its signature spicy kick and creamy texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers and Bake

Spread the spicy salmon mixture evenly over the compressed sushi rice base. Take your time to ensure the layer is uniform for even baking. Then, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top. This cheese layer bakes into a beautifully melted, bubbling crust that adds a comforting, gooey texture that contrasts wonderfully with the spicy salmon below. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly golden and bubbly. Once baked, remove it to let it cool slightly so the layers set, making it easier to serve.

How to Serve Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe

The image shows several pieces of sushi arranged in a row on a wooden board. Each sushi piece has three main layers: a white rice base at the bottom, a middle layer of light pink fish, and a top layer with orange sauce and small green chopped scallions. The top is drizzled with white mayo and dark brown sauce, sprinkled with dark seaweed flakes and light brown crunchy bits. In the background, there are dollops of green wasabi and a small white bowl with dark soy sauce, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The finishing touches on your Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe make all the difference. Sprinkle thinly sliced green onions over the warm bake for a fresh, peppery accent. Add toasted sesame seeds for a subtle crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall texture. These garnishes bring brightness and visual appeal, making every bite more exciting.

Side Dishes

This baked sushi is rich and flavorful on its own, but pairing it with light, refreshing sides creates a balanced meal. Think simple cucumber salad with a splash of rice vinegar, or pickled ginger to cut through the richness. A crisp seaweed salad or edamame beans can add a healthy crunch and keep the sushi theme going strong, rounding out your plate beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to take your Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe to the next level, get creative with serving. Try portioning the bake into small scoops served atop individual roasted seaweed squares for an interactive finger food experience. You can also present it in mini ramekins for a fun, party-style presentation. Either way, serving with nori turns each mouthful into a delightful little sushi hand roll, adding crunch and an extra layer of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, no worries! Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors continue to meld, and when you’re ready, you can easily enjoy it again without sacrificing taste or texture. Just be sure to cool the bake before storing to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it’s best enjoyed fresh because the layers can separate and the texture of the cheese and rice may change after thawing. If you do freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftovers in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese bubbles again. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the rice from getting too dry or mushy. This method brings back the original freshly-baked experience with melted cheese and warm, spicy salmon.

FAQs

Can I use raw salmon for this recipe?

It is safer and recommended to use cooked salmon for the Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe, as baking ensures the fish is fully cooked and safe to eat. Using raw salmon could result in uneven cooking and an unpleasant texture.

Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese with something else?

Absolutely! While mozzarella melts beautifully and has a mild flavor, you can use Monterey Jack, fontina, or even a mild cheddar if you prefer. Just make sure the cheese melts well to achieve that nice bubbly top.

Is there a dairy-free option for this bake?

Yes, you can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to the spicy salmon mixture, but the texture will be less gooey without traditional cheese.

What can I use instead of Sriracha sauce?

If you don’t have Sriracha on hand, any hot chili sauce, such as sambal oelek or a spicy mayo, can work as a substitute. Adjust the quantity to your heat preference to keep the perfect spice balance in this Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, swap the salmon for cooked and seasoned mushrooms or marinated tofu. While it won’t have the same seafood flavor, the creamy and spicy layers will still deliver a punch of deliciousness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a comforting yet exciting dish that brings the best of sushi flavors into a warm, shareable bake, the Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe is a total game-changer. It’s approachable, delicious, and perfect for casual dinners or special occasions where you want to impress without the fuss. Go ahead and whip it up—you might just find yourself making it again and again!

Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need