Name: Baked Salmon Sushi Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 cup sushi rice; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; 6 ounces cooked or baked salmon (flaked); ½ cup cream cheese (softened); 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional); 1 avocado (sliced); 1 sheet nori (cut into strips); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 green onions (thinly sliced); Soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger for serving

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Get ready to fall in love with Baked Salmon Sushi—an ultra-cozy, flavor-packed twist on classic sushi that brings all your favorite textures together in one irresistible bite. Think creamy salmon, perfectly seasoned rice, and all those craveable sushi toppings, baked until warm and golden. This dish is a total crowd-pleaser and a breeze to prepare, no rolling required! Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself to something special, Baked Salmon Sushi is the perfect fusion of comforting home-cooking and Japanese-inspired flair.

Baked Salmon Sushi Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how just a few simple ingredients come together to create layers of flavor and texture in this dish. Each one plays a key part, from the perfect sushi rice to the creamy, spicy topping and colorful garnishes.

1 cup sushi rice: The essential foundation for unbeatable texture and classic sushi flavor.
2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds that iconic tangy brightness to perfectly season your rice.
1 tablespoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the vinegar for that signature sweet-savory taste.
½ teaspoon salt: Amplifies all the other flavors and makes every bite pop.
6 ounces cooked or baked salmon (flaked): The hero protein—this can be made fresh, or use leftovers for easy prep.
½ cup cream cheese (softened): Brings luscious creaminess and richness to the salmon mixture.
2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds silkiness and ties the topping together.
1 tablespoon sriracha (optional): Brings just the right kick of heat if you like things spicy.
1 avocado (sliced): Offers creamy texture and beautiful color contrast on top.
1 sheet nori (cut into strips): Adds crunch and that ocean-fresh depth every sushi dish needs.
1 tablespoon sesame seeds: For a nutty crunch and eye-catching finish.
2 green onions (thinly sliced): Delivers freshness and zing right at the end.
Soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger for serving: Classic sushi condiments for dipping, spice, and palate cleansing.

How to Make Baked Salmon Sushi

Step 1: Season and Cool the Sushi Rice

Start by cooking your sushi rice according to the package instructions for the very best texture—fluffy, sticky, and just right for layering. While it’s still warm, stir in the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt to create that classic sushi flavor base. This step is essential, so take a moment to let your rice absorb all those flavors before letting it cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine your flaked, cooked or baked salmon with softened cream cheese and mayonnaise, blending until smooth and creamy. A drizzle of sriracha goes in here if you want some extra zing—totally optional but highly recommended for spicy lovers! This mixture is pure comfort, and makes Baked Salmon Sushi irresistibly luscious.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Spread your cooled, seasoned rice evenly in the bottom of a small baking dish or oven-safe bowl, pressing it gently into a compact layer. Spread the salmon mixture right on top and smooth it out so you get even coverage in every bite. This simple layering guarantees you’ll taste all the flavors in harmony.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), then slide the assembled dish into the oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, just until the salmon topping is warmed through and the edges start to turn beautifully golden. For a crispier finish, broil for a minute or two at the end—watch closely so you don’t miss the perfect, bubbly top!

Step 5: Finish with Toppings

Once the Baked Salmon Sushi is out of the oven, it’s time for those vibrant final touches. Fan out creamy avocado slices, scatter nori strips for subtle brininess, sprinkle sesame seeds for a satisfying crunch, and finish with a flourish of green onions. It’s almost too gorgeous to eat… but you won’t be able to resist!

How to Serve Baked Salmon Sushi

Garnishes

The finishing touches turn your Baked Salmon Sushi into a work of art! Avocado slices provide that buttery mouthfeel, nori strips add savory depth, sesame seeds bring crunch, and green onions cut through the richness with a pop of freshness. For classic sushi flair, always serve with soy sauce for dipping, plus a dab of wasabi and slivers of pickled ginger on the side.

Side Dishes

Pair this showstopper with light, refreshing sides like a crisp cucumber salad, a bowl of miso soup, or an edamame appetizer. These sides complement the richness of Baked Salmon Sushi and make the meal feel balanced and complete—perfect for sharing or serving as part of a sushi-inspired spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not have fun with your presentation? Spoon portions into individual ramekins for a dinner party, serve the sushi bake family-style right from the dish for a casual night in, or use squares of nori as handheld wraps for an interactive “sushi taco” experience. However you present it, Baked Salmon Sushi is guaranteed to wow your guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep any extra Baked Salmon Sushi tasting its best, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay delicious for up to two days, making it an easy grab-and-go lunch or snack the next day! Just make sure to keep any garnishes separate until you’re ready to enjoy.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, the texture of the cream cheese and avocado might change after thawing. If you do want to freeze portions of Baked Salmon Sushi, skip the fresh toppings and wrap the sushi bake tightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add all your garnishes fresh before serving for the best experience.

Reheating

When you’re ready for another round, gently reheat the sushi bake in the oven at 300°F until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts until hot. Add your avocado, green onion, and nori after reheating so you get that vibrant, just-made textures every time.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon instead of baked salmon?

Absolutely! Canned salmon is a fantastic shortcut that makes Baked Salmon Sushi even faster to prepare. Just drain it well and flake before combining with the other ingredients—easy and delicious.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and mayonnaise to keep things creamy and satisfying. Your Baked Salmon Sushi will still be rich, flavorful, and ideal for anyone with dairy sensitivities.

Can I prep Baked Salmon Sushi ahead of time?

Definitely. Assemble all the layers up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, then add your toppings right at the end for ultimate freshness.

What if I don’t have sushi rice?

Short-grain white rice is your best alternative, as it has a sticky texture that works well for this recipe. Simply season it as you would sushi rice for a similarly tasty effect.

How spicy is this dish with the sriracha?

With one tablespoon sriracha, you’ll get a pleasant, medium heat that doesn’t overpower the other flavors. Adjust up or down to match your spice preference—or leave it out entirely for a milder Baked Salmon Sushi.

Final Thoughts

Give Baked Salmon Sushi a try and watch it become an instant favorite in your kitchen! Whether you’re a longtime sushi lover or just discovering the magic of sushi bakes, this dish delivers satisfying flavors, easy prep, and plenty of personality. Serve it up, dig in, and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds!

Baked Salmon Sushi Recipe

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4.8 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Enjoy the flavors of sushi in a comforting baked casserole with this Baked Salmon Sushi recipe. Creamy, savory, and satisfying, it’s a delightful twist on traditional sushi rolls. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home!

Ingredients

Scale

Sushi Rice:

1 cup sushi rice
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
½ teaspoon salt

Salmon Mixture:

6 ounces cooked or baked salmon (flaked)
½ cup cream cheese (softened)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sriracha (optional)

Additional Ingredients:

1 avocado (sliced)
1 sheet nori (cut into strips)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 green onions (thinly sliced)
Soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger for serving

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Instructions

Cook the Sushi Rice: Prepare the sushi rice following the package instructions. Stir in rice vinegar, sugar, and salt while still warm. Let it cool.
Prepare the Salmon Mixture: Combine flaked salmon, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sriracha in a bowl until smooth.
Assemble and Bake: Press the cooled sushi rice into a baking dish. Top with the salmon mixture and bake until golden.
Finish and Serve: Top with avocado, nori, sesame seeds, and green onions. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.