Irresistible Salmon Sushi Bake: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Name: Salmon Sushi Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 lb wild-caught salmon fillet; 1 cup short-grain sushi rice; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp sugar; 8 oz full-fat cream cheese; 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 2 green onions, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds; 2 nori sheets, cut into strips

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

November 16, 2025

Updated:

November 16, 2025

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There’s something magical about the aroma of fresh salmon wafting through your kitchen, mixed with creamy, fluffy rice and a hint of umami. Picture this: a warm, bubbling dish that captures the essence of sushi without the need for rolling mats or sticky fingers. Welcome to the world of Salmon Sushi Bake, where you can enjoy all the flavors and textures of sushi in one delightful, crowd-pleasing casserole.

This dish is perfect for gatherings, cozy family dinners, or even those nights when you just want to indulge without the fuss. If you’ve ever found yourself craving sushi but didn’t want to make a trip out to your favorite sushi spot—or worse, attempt rolling it yourself—you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful recipe that promises not only to satisfy your cravings but also to become a staple at your table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Salmon Sushi Bake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Its flavor profile bursts with freshness from the salmon and tangy notes from the cream cheese
Visually appealing with its colorful toppings, it looks as good as it tastes
Versatile enough to adapt based on your favorite sushi ingredients or what you have on hand

I still remember the first time I made this dish for my friends during a casual get-together. The moment they took their first bite, their eyes lit up like fireworks on New Year’s Eve! It became an instant hit that left everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Salmon Fillet: Fresh or frozen salmon works well; just ensure it’s wild-caught for superior flavor.
Sushi Rice: Short-grain rice is ideal for achieving that perfect sticky texture.
Rice Vinegar: Adds that essential tangy flavor reminiscent of traditional sushi.
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy base.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to manage saltiness better.
Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions add freshness and crunch.
Avocado: Sliced avocado makes this dish even creamier and more luxurious.
Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty flavor and delightful crunch.
Nori Sheets: Cut into strips, they add that authentic sushi feel without the rolling hassle.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Salmon Sushi Bake

How to Make Salmon Sushi Bake

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray; this will help ensure nothing sticks during baking.

Cook the rice: Rinse 1 cup of sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook it according to package instructions—usually about 20 minutes until tender and sticky.

Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar with 1 tablespoon of sugar and stir until dissolved. Fold this mixture into your cooked rice while it’s still warm.

Prepare the salmon: While the rice cools slightly, chop about 1 pound of fresh salmon fillet into bite-sized pieces. Season them with salt and pepper; this little sprinkle elevates all those flavors beautifully.

Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together your seasoned salmon with 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until thoroughly combined. This will create that dreamy creamy layer in your bake.

Layer it up: Spread half of your sushi rice evenly on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Top with the salmon-cream cheese mixture and then finish by layering the remaining rice on top.

Bake away: Place your layered creation in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until heated through and slightly golden on top—trust me; you’ll know it’s done when it smells irresistible!

Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove from oven and let it cool slightly before garnishing with sliced avocado, green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and nori strips. Serve hot for maximum enjoyment!

Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself after a long day at work, this Salmon Sushi Bake will quickly become your go-to comfort food!

You Must Know

This salmon sushi bake is not only easy to prepare, but it also transforms the traditional sushi experience into a comforting casserole
The delightful aroma of baked salmon fills your kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in
Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests with minimal effort

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while preparing the ingredients. Assemble the layers in a baking dish and pop it into the oven for perfect salmon every time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this dish with different toppings like avocado or spicy mayo for added flavor. You can also switch up the rice for quinoa if you desire.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salmon sushi bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently in the oven to maintain its texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve perfectly flaky salmon, avoid overcooking
Use a meat thermometer; it should reach 145°F
For extra flavor, marinate the salmon beforehand for at least 30 minutes
Lastly, let it rest before serving for better texture and taste

Sharing meals with loved ones always warms my heart. I remember when I first made this dish for my friends—they couldn’t believe how delicious and simple it was!

FAQ

Can I use canned salmon for my sushi bake?

Absolutely! Canned salmon works well and saves time during preparation.

What type of rice should I use for this recipe?

Short-grain sushi rice is ideal due to its sticky texture, but long-grain works too.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add sriracha or chili flakes to your topping mixture for a spicy kick!

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