Sushi is a globally beloved dish, but making traditional sushi rolls can be time-consuming and requires some level of skill. Enter the Sushi Bake Recipe, an easy, oven-baked, deconstructed sushi casserole that delivers all the delicious flavors of sushi in a simpler format. This dish has become incredibly popular due to its convenience, rich flavors, and fun serving style, making it a must-try for sushi lovers.

But what exactly makes a Sushi Bake Recipe special? Unlike traditional sushi, which requires rolling and precision, this dish is layered in a baking dish and then baked to perfection. It’s then scooped onto seaweed sheets (nori) and enjoyed like a sushi taco. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family meal, or just craving sushi without the hassle, this Sushi Bake Recipe is the perfect solution!

Delicious homemade sushi bake in a baking dish with nori sheets on the side.

Why is Sushi Bake So Popular?

Sushi Bake started gaining popularity, particularly in Filipino and Asian-American communities, because of its rich, creamy, and umami-packed flavors. Here’s why it’s such a hit:

Easy to Prepare – No rolling required, making it perfect for beginners.
Great for Sharing – A fantastic dish for potlucks, gatherings, and family dinners.
Customizable – Can be made with different proteins and toppings to suit various dietary preferences.
Warm & Comforting – Unlike traditional sushi, which is served cold, sushi bake is warm, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying.

The Unique Twist on Traditional Sushi

Traditional sushi is known for its delicate flavors, raw fish, and precise presentation. However, the sushi bake recipe offers a modern twist, transforming classic sushi ingredients into a warm, comforting, and easy-to-make dish. Unlike traditional sushi rolls, this baked sushi casserole combines creamy sauces, seasoned rice, and baked seafood, all layered together and enjoyed with crispy nori sheets.

Some describe the sushi bake recipe as a fusion of sushi and a casserole, where layers of fluffy sushi rice, creamy seafood, and flavorful toppings are baked to golden perfection. This dish has quickly gained popularity due to its ease of preparation, customizable ingredients, and irresistible umami flavors.

Now that we know why the sushi bake recipe is such a crowd favorite, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to make it!

Ingredients for Sushi Bake

Now that we’ve covered why sushi bake is such a hit, let’s dive into the key ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious and creamy baked sushi casserole.

Core Ingredients You’ll Need

To make a classic sushi bake, you’ll need a mix of ingredients that capture the umami-rich flavors of traditional sushi but in an easy-to-bake format.

The Sushi Rice Base:

2 cups cooked sushi rice – Short-grain or medium-grain rice works best for that signature sticky texture.
2 tablespoons rice vinegar – Adds tang and helps balance the flavors.
1 tablespoon sugar – Enhances the slight sweetness found in sushi rice.
½ teaspoon salt – Brings out the flavor of the rice.
1 tablespoon furikake (Japanese seasoning mix) – A flavorful topping made from dried seaweed, sesame seeds, and sometimes fish flakes.

The Creamy Seafood Topping:

1 cup imitation crab meat (kani), shredded – The classic choice for sushi bake. You can also use real crab or even a mix of seafood.
½ cup Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie brand preferred) – Creamy, slightly tangy, and richer than regular mayo.
2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened – Adds extra creaminess and a slightly tangy bite.
1 teaspoon sriracha sauce – For a little heat (adjust to taste).
½ teaspoon soy sauce – Enhances the umami flavors.
½ teaspoon sesame oil – Adds depth and a subtle nutty aroma.

For the Toppings:

¼ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese – Gives it a slightly melted, cheesy layer.
Extra furikake for garnish – Adds crunch and umami flavor.
Thinly sliced green onions – Adds freshness and color.
Tobiko (fish roe) – Optional, but adds a delightful pop of salty flavor.

For Serving:

Roasted nori sheets (seaweed) – Used to scoop up the sushi bake like a taco.
Sliced cucumbers and avocados – Great for added freshness and texture.

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

Want to get creative with your sushi bake? Here are some extra ingredients you can mix in or use as toppings:

Spicy Mayo Drizzle – Mix Kewpie mayo with extra sriracha for a drizzle on top.
Eel Sauce (Unagi Sauce) – A sweet, soy-based glaze that pairs beautifully with sushi bake.
Chopped Shrimp or Scallops – Swap out or mix with the crab for a different seafood twist.
Wasabi – If you love heat, add a little wasabi paste to your mixture.

Substitutions for Dietary Preferences

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce and make sure the furikake doesn’t contain added gluten ingredients.
Dairy-Free Option: Skip the cheese and cream cheese; replace them with extra Japanese mayo for a creamy texture.
Low-Carb/Keto Option: Substitute the sushi rice with cauliflower rice seasoned with rice vinegar.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of making sushi bake!

How to Make Sushi Bake – Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, it’s time to put them together and make the perfect sushi bake recipe! This easy sushi bake recipe will guide you step by step, ensuring a delicious and creamy baked sushi casserole. Whether you’re making this homemade sushi bake recipe for a family meal or a special occasion, you’ll love the balance of savory, creamy, and umami flavors in every bite.

Preparing the Sushi Rice

The base of any good sushi bake is the sushi rice. Here’s how to prepare it perfectly:

Cook the Rice – Rinse 2 cups of sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to package instructions using a rice cooker or stovetop.
Season the Rice – In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, and ½ teaspoon salt until dissolved. Pour the mixture over the warm rice and gently fold it in with a wooden spoon.
Spread the Rice into a Baking Dish – Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish and spread the sushi rice evenly across the bottom. Press it down gently to form a compact layer. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of furikake seasoning over the rice for extra flavor.

Mixing the Sushi Toppings

The creamy, flavorful topping is what makes sushi bake so irresistible! Follow these steps:

Shred the Crab (Kani) – Using your hands or a fork, shred 1 cup of imitation crab meat (kani) into fine pieces. If using real crab, make sure it is fully cooked and flaked.
Mix the Sauce – In a medium bowl, combine:
- ½ cup Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie brand preferred)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste for spice level)
- ½ teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
Combine the Ingredients – Fold the shredded crab into the sauce mixture until fully coated. The texture should be creamy but not overly wet.

Assembling the Sushi Bake

Now that your rice and topping are ready, let’s layer them together:

Spread the Crab Mixture – Evenly distribute the creamy crab topping over the sushi rice layer in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out smoothly.
Sprinkle More Furikake – Add an extra 1 tablespoon of furikake over the top for extra umami flavor.
Add Cheese (Optional) – If you like a cheesy, golden crust, sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top.

Baking to Perfection

Now, it’s time to bake!

Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the Sushi – Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and bubbly.
Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional) – If you want a more golden crust, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Garnishing and Serving

Now that your sushi bake is warm and bubbly, it’s time to add the finishing touches and serve!

Drizzle with Spicy Mayo & Eel Sauce – Mix Japanese mayo with extra sriracha and drizzle it over the top. If you have eel sauce (unagi sauce), add a drizzle for extra flavor.
Sprinkle Green Onions & Tobiko – Add sliced green onions and tobiko (fish roe) for color and texture.
Serve with Nori Sheets – Cut roasted nori sheets into small squares. Use them to scoop up the sushi bake like a taco!
Add Fresh Sides – Serve with sliced cucumbers, avocado, or pickled ginger to balance out the richness.

Enjoy Your Homemade Sushi Bake!

Your sushi bake is now ready to be enjoyed! The warm, creamy, and umami-packed flavors make it a perfect dish for sharing with family and friends.

Variations of Sushi Bake

One of the best things about sushi bake is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit different preferences, whether you love seafood, want a spicy kick, or need a vegetarian or keto-friendly option. Here are some delicious variations to try!

Spicy Tuna Sushi Bake

If you love the spicy, creamy flavor of spicy tuna rolls, this version is for you!

Replace the crab with: 1 cup fresh sushi-grade tuna, finely chopped.
Increase the spice: Add an extra ½ teaspoon sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Drizzle with extra spicy mayo after baking for a restaurant-style kick.

Crab and Cheese Sushi Bake

A creamier and cheesier version that’s perfect for those who love rich, indulgent flavors.

Use a mix of crab and shrimp: Combine ½ cup shredded crab and ½ cup chopped cooked shrimp.
Increase the cheese: Mix ¼ cup shredded mozzarella into the crab mixture before baking.
Top with panko breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy texture.

Vegetarian Sushi Bake

Skip the seafood and still enjoy a flavor-packed sushi bake with these plant-based ingredients!

Replace the crab with:
- 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (shiitake or button)
- ½ cup diced tofu or avocado
Enhance umami flavors with:
- 1 teaspoon miso paste
- ½ teaspoon extra soy sauce
Add extra crunch: Sprinkle sesame seeds and panko breadcrumbs on top before baking.

Keto-Friendly Sushi Bake

Want to enjoy sushi bake while keeping it low-carb? Try this version!

Swap the sushi rice with: Cauliflower rice mixed with 1 tablespoon rice vinegar.
Use real seafood: Opt for real crab or salmon instead of imitation crab, which contains carbs.
Skip the sugar: Use a pinch of monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar for the rice seasoning.
Omit the breadcrumbs and drizzle with extra spicy mayo instead for texture.

Other Fun Sushi Bake Variations

Salmon and Cream Cheese Sushi Bake – Inspired by a Philadelphia roll, use flaked cooked salmon and extra cream cheese.
Eel Sushi Bake – Use chopped unagi (grilled eel) and drizzle with unagi sauce.
Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake – Layer crispy chopped tempura shrimp on top after baking.

Get Creative with Your Sushi Bake!

The beauty of sushi bake is that you can mix and match ingredients based on what you love. Try different seafood, veggies, or sauces to create your own signature version!

Tips and Tricks for the Best Sushi Bake

Making a perfect sushi bake is easy, but a few expert tips can take it from good to absolutely delicious! Whether it’s choosing the right ingredients, perfecting the texture, or storing leftovers properly, these tips will ensure that your sushi bake is restaurant-quality every time.

Choosing the Right Rice

Use Japanese short-grain or medium-grain rice – It’s stickier and holds together better than long-grain rice.
Rinse the rice before cooking – This removes excess starch and prevents a mushy texture.
Season the rice while warm – Mix in rice vinegar, sugar, and salt while the rice is still warm for the best absorption.

Achieving the Perfect Flavor Balance

Don’t overdo the mayonnaise – While Kewpie mayo is key to the creamy texture, too much can make the sushi bake overly rich.
Adjust the spice level – If you love heat, add extra sriracha or wasabi. If you prefer mild flavors, reduce the spice.
Layer your flavors – Sprinkle extra furikake and drizzle eel sauce or spicy mayo after baking for extra depth.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Sushi bake is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to keep it tasting great:

Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating – Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Avoid freezing – The texture of the rice and seafood may become grainy after thawing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the wrong type of rice – Long-grain rice (like jasmine or basmati) won’t give the right sticky texture.
Skipping the vinegar seasoning – The rice vinegar, sugar, and salt are essential for authentic sushi flavor.
Overbaking the seafood – Bake only until golden and bubbly; overcooking can make the seafood dry.
Not serving with nori sheets – Roasted nori adds the perfect crispy contrast to the creamy sushi bake.

Final Pro Tip

For the best presentation, garnish with:

Thinly sliced green onions
A drizzle of spicy mayo & eel sauce
A sprinkle of furikake and sesame seeds

With these tips, your sushi bake will always turn out flavorful, creamy, and absolutely delicious!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Sushi bake is already a flavor-packed, satisfying dish, but pairing it with the right sides, drinks, and creative serving styles can elevate the experience even more! Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, these serving suggestions and pairings will make your sushi bake meal complete.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Sushi Bake

Pairing your sushi bake with fresh, crunchy, and light side dishes helps balance out its creamy richness. Here are some delicious sides to complement your sushi bake:

Miso Soup – A warm, umami-rich broth made with miso paste, tofu, and seaweed.
Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono) – Light and refreshing, with a sweet and tangy vinegar dressing.
Pickled Ginger (Gari) – Cleanses the palate between bites and enhances the sushi flavors.
Edamame with Sea Salt – A simple and healthy side dish that adds a touch of freshness.
Asian Slaw – A crunchy mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing for a refreshing contrast.
Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the savory sushi bake.

Drinks That Complement Sushi Bake

A well-paired drink enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some great beverage options to enjoy with sushi bake:

Green Tea (Hot or Iced) – Helps cleanse the palate and balance the umami flavors.
Japanese Beer (Asahi, Sapporo, Kirin) – Crisp and light, perfect for pairing with creamy dishes.
Sake (Chilled or Warm) – A traditional pairing with sushi, offering subtle sweetness and umami notes.
White Wine (Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Riesling) – Light and slightly acidic wines complement the creamy, savory sushi bake.
Sparkling Water with Lemon – A refreshing, non-alcoholic option that keeps the flavors balanced.

Creative Ways to Serve Sushi Bake

While the classic way to enjoy sushi bake is by scooping it onto nori sheets, you can also get creative with how you serve it!

Sushi Bake Hand Rolls – Roll the sushi bake inside a large sheet of nori with avocado and cucumber for a fun, handheld sushi experience.
Sushi Bake Tacos – Use crispy wonton shells or mini seaweed sheets as taco shells for a unique twist.
Sushi Bake Bowls – Serve a scoop of sushi bake over a bowl of rice, topped with extra furikake and fresh vegetables.
Sushi Bake Onigiri (Rice Balls) – Mix the sushi bake into rice, shape into triangles or balls, and wrap with seaweed for a portable snack.
Sushi Bake Lettuce Wraps – For a low-carb option, wrap scoops of sushi bake in crisp lettuce leaves instead of nori.

Final Thoughts on Serving Sushi Bake

Sushi bake is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can be served in many creative ways. By pairing it with refreshing side dishes, the right beverages, and fun serving styles, you can turn your sushi bake meal into a restaurant-worthy dining experience!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your sushi bake with a shrimp salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve alongside Hawaiian macaroni salad for a creamy, tangy complement.
If you love baked dishes, you might also enjoy making a sourdough pizza crust

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are You Supposed to Eat Sushi Bake Hot or Cold?

Sushi bake is traditionally eaten hot or warm straight out of the oven. The baking process enhances the flavors, melts the cheese (if used), and gives it a rich, creamy texture. However, if you have leftovers, you can eat sushi bake cold or at room temperature, similar to traditional sushi. Some people even enjoy it chilled, but reheating it brings back its original texture and taste.

What Are the Three Main Ingredients in Sushi?

The three essential ingredients in traditional sushi are:

Sushi Rice (Shari) – Made from Japanese short-grain rice seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt for the perfect balance of flavor and stickiness.
Fish or Other Proteins – Common choices include raw fish (like salmon, tuna, or yellowtail), cooked seafood (such as shrimp or crab), or even tofu for vegetarian options.
Nori (Seaweed) – A dried seaweed sheet that holds sushi rolls together and adds an umami-rich flavor.

What Is the Sushi Bake Wiki?

There is no official “Sushi Bake Wiki” page, but sushi bake is a modern, deconstructed sushi dish that originated in the Philippines and gained popularity across Asian-American communities. It’s described as a baked sushi casserole, where layers of seasoned rice, creamy seafood, and toppings like furikake and spicy mayo are baked and scooped onto nori sheets.

If you’re looking for an official page, you can check Wikipedia’s “Sushi” page or food blogs that specialize in Asian fusion cuisine.

How to Make Sushi in 5 Steps?

Making sushi at home is easier than it looks! Here’s a simple 5-step process:

Prepare the Sushi Rice – Cook Japanese short-grain rice, season with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, then let it cool.
Cut the Fillings – Slice fresh fish (like salmon or tuna), cucumbers, avocados, or other ingredients into thin strips.
Lay Out the Nori Sheet – Place a sheet of nori (seaweed) on a bamboo mat, shiny side down.
Assemble & Roll – Spread a thin layer of rice on the nori, add fillings, and roll tightly using the mat.
Cut & Serve – Slice the roll with a sharp, wet knife and serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

Conclusion

Sushi bake is an easy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing dish that brings the rich flavors of sushi into a simple, oven-baked casserole. Whether you’re making this sushi bake recipe for a family dinner, potluck, or special occasion, it’s guaranteed to impress.

What makes sushi bake special is its versatility—you can customize it with different seafood, add spice for extra heat, or make a keto-friendly or vegetarian sushi bake. It’s also a great make-ahead meal, allowing you to prepare it in advance and bake it fresh when needed.

With the right rice, perfectly balanced seasonings, and the best toppings, you can create a sushi bake recipe that’s just as delicious as restaurant-style sushi—but much easier to make! Pair your homemade sushi bake with nori sheets, fresh sides, and a refreshing drink for a complete meal experience.

Now that you know how to make the perfect sushi bake, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen and enjoy this warm, creamy, and umami-packed sushi bake recipe with friends and family!

Easy & Delicious Sushi Bake Recipe – A Baked Sushi Casserole

Sushi bake is a deconstructed sushi roll in a warm, creamy, and flavorful casserole form. This dish combines sushi rice, imitation crab (or fresh seafood), Japanese mayo, cream cheese, and furikake, then is baked until golden and bubbly. Served with nori sheets, it makes for an easy and fun-to-eat dish perfect for parties and gatherings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 20

Total Time 40

Course Main Course

Cuisine Japanese Fusion

Servings 6

Equipment

9×9-inch baking dish (or similar size)
Mixing bowls
Rice cooker (optional, for cooking sushi rice)
Spatula
Measuring cups & spoons
Oven

Ingredients

For the Sushi Rice:
2 cups sushi rice
2 ½ cups water
¼ cup rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
½ teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
1 cup imitation crab or real crab, shredded
½ cup cooked salmon or tuna, optional
¼ cup cream cheese softened
¼ cup Japanese mayonnaise Kewpie
1 tablespoon Sriracha adjust to taste
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
For Assembly & Garnishing:
2 tablespoons furikake seasoning
½ avocado sliced (optional)
1 tablespoon green onions chopped
1 teaspoon sesame seeds optional
Nori sheets for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice
Rinse sushi rice under cold water until water runs clear.
Cook the rice in a rice cooker or stovetop according to package instructions.
In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Pour over the hot rice and gently mix. Let cool.
Step 2: Make the Topping
In a bowl, mix imitation crab (or real crab/salmon) with cream cheese, Japanese mayo, Sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder. Stir until combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Sushi Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread the sushi rice evenly in a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle furikake seasoning over the rice layer.
Spread the seafood mixture evenly on top of the rice.
Sprinkle additional furikake and sesame seeds on top.
Step 4: Bake & Serve
Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
Garnish with sliced avocado, green onions, and more furikake.
Serve with nori sheets—scoop a portion onto the seaweed and enjoy!

Notes

Substitutions: You can use real crab, shrimp, or even canned tuna.
Spice Level: Adjust the Sriracha to your liking.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Serving Tip: Drizzle with extra Kewpie mayo and Sriracha for more flavor.

Keyword Sushi bake, sushi casserole, baked sushi, easy sushi bake, Kani sushi bake, seafood sushi bake, Japanese recipes, sushi recipe