Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake

This spicy salmon sushi bake is a fantastic way to enjoy sushi flavors without the fuss of rolling. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings it delivers a comforting blend of creamy heat layered over tender rice that everyone can dig into.

I tried this recipe after craving sushi but not wanting to go out and it quickly became a house favorite for easy entertaining.

Ingredients

• Sushi rice: provides the sticky base crucial for authentic texture pick a high quality short grain variety for best results
• Rice vinegar: adds the classic sushi tang look for a brand with mild acidity and no additives
• Fresh salmon fillet: ensures tender flaky fish choose wild caught if possible for better flavor and sustainability
• Mayonnaise: gives the salmon mixture creaminess I use Japanese mayo for its subtle sweetness
• Sriracha sauce: brings the spicy kick adjust the amount to your heat tolerance
• Sesame oil: adds nuttiness which rounds out the flavors use toasted sesame oil for the best aroma
• Green onions: add freshness select firm vibrant stalks
• Nori strips: offer a seaweed crunch for garnish buy sheets that are crisp and dark green
• Tobiko or flying fish roe: is optional but adds a pop of texture and color when available

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit 190 degrees Celsius early so it reaches temperature by baking time

Cook Sushi Rice:

Rinse 2 cups of sushi rice under cold water until water runs clear this washes away excess starch and prevents clumping Combine rinsed rice with 2.5 cups water in a rice cooker or saucepan Cook according to package directions usually about 15 minutes simmering then resting off heat

Season Rice:

Mix ¼ cup rice vinegar with 2 tablespoons sugar and 1 teaspoon salt in a small bowl stir until dissolved Fluff cooked rice gently with a fork to let steam escape Fold the vinegar mixture into the rice carefully to avoid mashing

Layer Rice:

Spread the seasoned rice evenly at the bottom of a baking dish roughly 9 by 9 inches Allow it to cool slightly so the topping does not melt immediately

Prepare Salmon Topping:

In a bowl mix 1 pound diced fresh salmon with ½ cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons Sriracha and 1 teaspoon sesame oil Add ½ cup chopped green onions Taste and adjust heat level and seasoning as desired

Assemble and Bake:

Evenly spread the salmon mixture over the rice layer in your dish Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until salmon is fully cooked and the top light golden

Garnish and Serve:

Remove from oven and cool for a few minutes before serving Top with extra green onions nori strips and tobiko if using for added flavor and texture Scoop with a spoon to serve warm and enjoy the layered spicy sushi flavors

I love how the sesame oil lifts the whole dish with its toasty warmth A family memory is always how eager everyone is to reach the top browned layer which is the best part

Storage Tips

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to two days Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the creamy texture intact Avoid freezing as the rice and mayo mixture can change texture

Ingredient Swaps

Use cooked shrimp or crab instead of salmon for a different seafood twist Try vegan mayo and smoked tofu for a plant based option Replace Sriracha with a milder chili sauce to suit children or spice avoiders

Serving Ideas

Serve alongside a simple cucumber salad or pickled ginger to brighten the richness Add a side of steamed edamame or miso soup for a full Japanese inspired meal A drizzle of soy sauce or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can add extra flavor

This spicy salmon sushi bake is sure to become a family favorite with its comforting layers and easy prep.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of salmon is best for this dish?

Fresh, skinless salmon fillets work best, as they allow for even cooking and easy dicing, contributing to a tender texture in the bake.

→ Can I use short grain rice instead of sushi rice?

Short grain rice is a good alternative since it becomes sticky when cooked, helping the bake hold its shape well.

→ How spicy is the dish typically?

The heat mainly comes from Sriracha sauce; you can adjust the amount to suit your preferred spice level without overpowering the other flavors.

→ What’s the purpose of the rice vinegar mixture in the rice?

Rice vinegar combined with sugar and salt seasons the rice, adding subtle tanginess and balancing richness from the salmon and mayo.

→ Are there garnish options beyond green onions and nori?

Yes, tobiko can add a pop of color and a slightly salty, crunchy texture that complements the creaminess and spices.