Easy Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake

Name: Easy Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups sushi rice; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 pound cooked salmon, flaked; 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Sriracha; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 green onions, sliced; 1 sheet nori, cut into strips; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Cross-Cultural Cooking

I absolutely love making this Easy Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake because it simplifies sushi preparation, allowing me to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of rolling. The combination of spicy salmon and creamy sauce layered over rice creates a mouthwatering dish that hits all the right notes. This recipe is perfect for entertaining or just a cozy dinner at home and always leaves everyone asking for more. Plus, it can be served right from the oven, adding an inviting warmth to any gathering.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-02-24T17:46:18.989Z

When I first tried making sushi at home, I was intimidated by the rolling technique. That's when I discovered this Easy Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake, which allows me to enjoy the same flavors without the fuss. Layering ingredients in a baking dish is not only easier but also results in a deliciously creamy and spicy dish that everyone loves.

What I appreciate most about this recipe is the ability to adjust the spiciness to our liking. I usually use Sriracha for a nice kick, but you can tone it down if desired. The key is to let the flavors meld while baking, giving it a wonderful depth that reminds me of my favorite sushi rolls.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich balance of spicy and creamy flavors
Easy to prepare, no rolling required
Perfect for gatherings or family dinners

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this sushi bake, sushi rice, plays a crucial role in achieving the dish's texture and flavor. Its short grains become sticky when cooked, allowing the rice to hold together beautifully when layered. Rinsing the rice until the water runs clear is essential; this step removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming gummy. Ensuring the precise water-to-rice ratio is also key—using too much water can lead to overly soft rice, while too little may result in undercooked grains.

For the salmon mixture, cooked salmon is a versatile ingredient. You can use leftover salmon from a previous meal or even canned salmon if you're short on time. The combination of mayonnaise and Sriracha adds a creamy texture with a delightful kick, but don’t hesitate to experiment. For a healthier twist, Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise, offering a tangy flavor while maintaining creaminess. Similarly, consider adjusting the Sriracha amount based on desired heat levels, making it perfect for your taste preferences.

Baking to Perfection

When assembling your sushi bake, spreading the rice evenly in the baking dish is vital for an even distribution of flavors. I recommend using a spatula to level the rice for optimal layering. Once the salmon mixture is added, visually check that it covers the rice without leaving bare spots, ensuring every bite is flavorful. The nori on top not only adds a unique flavor but also a wonderful texture contrast; a slight crispness can enhance the overall experience.

Baking time can significantly affect the outcome of your dish. Keep an eye on the bake towards the end of the cooking process. You want the top to be slightly golden and the edges bubbling, which should take about 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). If your oven runs hot, you might want to lower the temperature slightly or check for doneness a few minutes earlier to avoid overcooking.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process for this delicious dish.

For the sushi bake

2 cups sushi rice
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 pound cooked salmon, flaked
1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Sriracha
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 green onions, sliced
1 sheet nori, cut into strips
Sesame seeds for garnish

Ensure everything is prepared and ready before combining the ingredients to achieve the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create your Easy Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake.

Cook the sushi rice

Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice, water, and salt in a pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit for 10 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Prepare the salmon mixture

In a bowl, mix together the flaked salmon, mayonnaise, Sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sliced green onions. Adjust the amount of Sriracha based on your spice preference.

Assemble the bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cooked rice evenly in a baking dish. Layer the salmon mixture over the rice and top with nori strips. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish.

Bake

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until heated through and slightly golden on top.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional green onions if desired, and enjoy your homemade spicy salmon sushi bake!

Serve this warm dish with additional soy sauce or pickled ginger for an extra kick!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different types of fish or add avocado for extra creaminess. Don't hesitate to adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing this sushi bake is easy. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container to maintain freshness. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Reheating completely in the oven helps retain the texture better than microwaving, which can make the rice dry. If you do use a microwave, cover the dish to keep moisture in and add a splash of water over the rice before heating.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake can be served with traditional accompaniments to elevate the meal. A drizzle of soy sauce or a side of pickled ginger can complement the dish perfectly. Fresh wasabi makes a fantastic addition for those who enjoy a bit of heat, or you can even add sliced avocado or cucumber on the side for freshness and creaminess.

If you're interested in varying the presentation, consider serving individual portions in small ramekins topped with nori strips for an elegant touch. This presentation is not only beautiful but also convenient for serving at gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy their own little bake while simplifying your hosting duties.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use raw salmon instead of cooked?

It's recommended to use cooked salmon in this recipe for safety, but you could use sushi-grade raw salmon if you prefer.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to replace regular soy sauce in the recipe.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

You can prepare the salmon mixture and rice ahead of time, but it's best to assemble and bake just before serving for optimal taste.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with a simple cucumber salad or edamame for a refreshing contrast to the warm sushi bake.