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A freshly baked sushi bake in a white ceramic dish, golden-brown on top, drizzled with spicy mayo and unagi sauce, with a spoon scooping out a bite.

sushi bake recipe​

C. Sophie
Make this Sushi Bake Recipe for a creamy, umami-packed dish that's easy to make and perfect for sharing. No rolling needed—just layer, bake, and enjoy!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Dish
Cuisine Fusion, Japanese
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Sushi Rice Base:

  • The foundation of any great sushi dish is the perfectly seasoned rice. Here’s what you’ll need:
  • 2 cups sushi rice – Short-grain Japanese rice gives the best texture. Avoid long-grain rice as it won’t stick properly.
  • 2 ½ cups water – For cooking the rice to the perfect fluffy consistency.
  • ¼ cup rice vinegar – Adds that signature tang and balances the flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar – Slightly sweetens the rice for a more authentic taste.
  • ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of the rice.

👉 Pro Tip: Rinse your sushi rice 2–3 times until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps achieve a light yet sticky texture.

For the Creamy Seafood Layer:

  • This flavor-packed topping is the heart of the sushi bake combining creamy, savory, and slightly spicy elements.
  • 8 oz imitation crab Kani, shredded – A classic sushi bake ingredient with a mild, sweet flavor.
  • 8 oz cooked shrimp or salmon flaked – Adds more seafood depth. You can also use real crab meat!
  • ½ cup Japanese mayo Kewpie – Rich and slightly sweet, giving the mixture its creamy texture. Regular mayo works, but Kewpie makes a difference!
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha – For a mild heat kick. Adjust based on your spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce – Adds a savory umami boost.
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened – For extra creaminess and a luscious texture.

👉 Customization Tip: Not a seafood fan? Swap in shredded chicken, tofu, or even mushrooms for a unique take on sushi bake!

For the Toppings:

  • These final touches add crunch flavor, and that signature sushi experience.
  • 2 tablespoons furikake seasoning – A blend of sesame seeds seaweed, and dried fish flakes for an authentic umami finish.
  • 2 tablespoons unagi sauce eel sauce – Sweet and savory, this thick glaze adds a restaurant-style touch.
  • 2 tablespoons spicy mayo mayo + sriracha mix – A creamy drizzle that ties everything together.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds – For extra nuttiness and texture.
  • Chopped green onions – A fresh flavorful garnish.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice

  • A great sushi bake starts with perfectly seasoned sushi rice. Here’s how to get it just right:
  • Rinse the rice – Place the sushi rice in a bowl and rinse it under cold water 2–3 times until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures a fluffy, non-gummy texture.
  • Cook the rice – Use a rice cooker for the easiest, foolproof method, or cook it on the stovetop with 2 ½ cups of water. Once done, let it rest, covered, for about 10 minutes.
  • Season the rice – In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, and ½ teaspoon salt until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the cooked rice using a rice paddle or wooden spoon. Be careful not to mash the rice!
  • Let it cool – Spread the seasoned rice onto a plate or baking dish and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
  • 👉 Pro Tip: Use a fan or gently stir the rice while cooling to give it that signature glossy sushi texture.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Seafood Mixture

  • This layer is where all the rich, umami flavors come together!
  • Shred the crab – Use your hands or a fork to pull apart 8 oz of imitation crab (Kani) into thin strands. If using shrimp or salmon, chop or flake it into small pieces.
  • Mix the filling – In a bowl, combine the shredded crab, cooked seafood, ½ cup Kewpie mayo, 1 tablespoon sriracha, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, and 4 oz softened cream cheese. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
  • Taste & adjust – Want it spicier? Add more sriracha. Need more umami? A splash of soy sauce can do wonders!
  • 👉 Customization Tip: If you love extra texture, mix in some diced cucumbers, avocado, or tobiko (fish roe) for a little pop of flavor!

Step 3: Assemble the Sushi Bake

  • Now, let’s layer everything into a delicious baked sushi casserole!
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
  • Layer the rice – Spread the seasoned sushi rice evenly into a lightly greased 9x9-inch baking dish (or similar size). Press it down gently to create a firm base.
  • Add the seafood mixture – Spread the creamy seafood filling over the rice in an even layer. Smooth it out using a spatula for uniform baking.
  • Sprinkle with furikake – Generously top the seafood layer with 2 tablespoons of furikake seasoning for that classic sushi flavor.
  • 👉 Texture Tip: Want a cheesy sushi bake? Add a layer of shredded mozzarella or cheddar before baking for a golden, bubbly crust!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

  • Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes or until the top is slightly golden and the edges are bubbling.
  • Broil for extra crispiness – If you love a bit of char, switch to broil mode for the last 2–3 minutes until lightly browned. Watch closely to prevent burning!
  • Cool slightly – Let the sushi bake rest for 5 minutes before adding the finishing touches.

Step 5: Add the Final Toppings & Serve

  • The magic is in the toppings—this is where your sushi bake really comes to life!
  • Drizzle with sauces – Use a spoon or squeeze bottle to drizzle spicy mayo and unagi sauce over the top for extra creaminess and a sweet-savory finish.
  • Garnish for extra flavor – Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a burst of freshness.
  • Serve with nori sheets – Cut nori sheets into squares and use them to scoop up each delicious bite.
  • 👉 Pro Serving Tip: Serve with pickled ginger, soy sauce, and wasabi on the side for the full sushi experience!

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Calories: ~380 kcal
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g
Keyword baked sushi, easy sushi bake, Japanese casserole, seafood casserole, Sushi bake