Sushi bake has taken the culinary world by storm, offering a delicious and easy-to-make alternative to traditional sushi rolls. This deconstructed sushi casserole is perfect for parties, family dinners, or even meal prep. If you’re looking for a foolproof sushi bake recipe, you’ve come to the right place. Follow these 10 easy steps to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress everyone at the table.
What is Sushi Bake?
Sushi bake is a baked casserole dish that combines all the flavors of sushi in one convenient dish. It features layers of seasoned sushi rice, a creamy seafood mixture, and flavorful toppings. Served with roasted seaweed sheets (nori), it’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy sushi without the hassle of rolling.
Why You’ll Love This Sushi Bake Recipe
- Easy to Make: No sushi-rolling skills required!
- Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing at gatherings or potlucks.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and reheat for quick meals.
Ingredients for Sushi Bake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious sushi bake recipe:
For the Sushi Rice:
- 2 cups sushi rice (short-grain)
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Seafood Layer:
- 1 lb (450g) imitation crab, shrimp, or salmon (cooked and shredded)
- 1/2 cup Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie mayo)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (optional, for spice)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For Toppings:
- 1/4 cup furikake (Japanese rice seasoning)
- 1 sheet nori (seaweed), cut into strips
- 1/4 cup green onions (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
For Serving:
- Roasted seaweed sheets (nori)
- Soy sauce
- Pickled ginger
- Wasabi (optional)
Step-by-Step Sushi Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice
- Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Cook the rice in a rice cooker or on the stovetop with 2 1/2 cups water.
- In a small saucepan, heat rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Mix this into the cooked rice while it’s still warm. Let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Seafood Mixture
- In a bowl, combine the shredded seafood, Japanese mayonnaise, cream cheese, sriracha, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until creamy and well-combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Sushi Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread the sushi rice evenly in a baking dish (9×13 inches works well).
- Sprinkle furikake evenly over the rice.
- Spread the seafood mixture over the rice, covering it completely.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 5: Garnish
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and nori strips.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve warm with roasted seaweed sheets, soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi on the side.
- To eat, scoop a portion onto a small piece of roasted seaweed, wrap, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Sushi Bake
- Use Kewpie Mayo: This Japanese mayonnaise adds a rich, umami flavor.
- Keep Rice Sticky: Slightly sticky rice makes it easier to scoop and wrap.
- Customize Toppings: Add avocado, cucumber, or tobiko for extra texture and flavor.
- Adjust Spice Level: Add more or less sriracha to suit your taste.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Tuna Sushi Bake: Use raw or cooked tuna mixed with spicy mayo.
- Vegetarian Sushi Bake: Substitute seafood with tofu, jackfruit, or roasted vegetables.
- California Sushi Bake: Add avocado and cucumber for a fresh twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Sushi Bake Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, but avoid overcooking to prevent the rice from drying out.
Can I Freeze Sushi Bake?
It’s not recommended, as the texture of the rice and seafood may change after freezing.
Conclusion
This sushi bake recipe is a game-changer for sushi lovers. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a comforting meal, this dish is sure to satisfy. Try it today and discover why sushi bake has become a global sensation!
Pro Tip: Share your sushi bake creations on social media and tag #SushiBakeRecipe to inspire others! Let us know how it turned out in the comments below. 😊