Name: Sushi Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked sushi rice; 1-1/2 cups water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1-1/2 teaspoons sugar; 3 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 pound imitation crabmeat, finely chopped; 1/4 cup Kewpie mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon prepared wasabi (optional); 1 cup chopped cucumber; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs; 2 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Sriracha chili sauce; 3 medium ripe avocados, mashed; 2 green onions, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons furikake seasoning

Print Recipe·4 from 9 reviews

If you have ever wished that you could enjoy all the flavors and fun of sushi without the painstaking rolling and tricky knife work, then you are about to fall in love. This Sushi Bake Recipe is a delightful, warm, and comforting take on traditional sushi, transformed into an easy, crowd-pleasing casserole. Creamy avocado, seasoned crab, perfectly cooked sushi rice, and crunchy toasted panko all come together baked under a spicy-sweet drizzle that makes every bite irresistibly joyful. Whether you’re serving family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this dish brings sushi vibes straight from the kitchen with ease and loads of flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white square dish filled with layers of food sits on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a mix of light brown and red pieces that look soft and cooked. On top, there is a thick spread of bright green creamy mixture covering almost the whole dish. Scattered over the green layer are small, evenly cut cubes of green and yellow vegetables. Around the dish, small white bowls hold different ingredients: a bowl with a creamy orange sauce with a spoon, a bowl with more small vegetable cubes, a bowl filled with thin green slices, and a bowl of light brown crumbly pieces. A woman's hand is placing some of the small vegetable cubes on the top layer. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The best part about this Sushi Bake Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in capturing the authentic sushi experience, from the sticky sushi rice to the fresh cucumbers that add a refreshing crunch. Grab these essentials and get ready to create a harmonious plate of flavors and textures.

1 cup uncooked sushi rice: The foundation of the dish, sushi rice’s texture is key for that perfect sticky bite.
1-1/2 cups water: Used to cook the rice to fluffy perfection.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor in the rice.
1-1/2 teaspoons sugar: Balances the acidity while seasoning the rice.
3 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds that signature tang that sushi rice is famous for.
1 pound imitation crabmeat, finely chopped: Provides savory, slightly sweet seafood flavor.
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise, divided: Creamy richness with an umami boost.
1 teaspoon prepared wasabi (optional): A gentle kick of heat to brighten the crab mixture.
1 cup chopped cucumber: Adds fresh crunch and cooling contrast.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: For seasoning the cucumbers with savory depth.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: Imparts a warm, nutty aroma to the cucumbers.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For toasting the panko to golden crunchiness.
1/4 cup panko bread crumbs: A crispy topping that adds texture and a toasty flavor.
1 tablespoon Sriracha chili sauce: Spicy sweetness to give the dish an exciting edge.
3 medium ripe avocados, mashed: Creamy, buttery layer that makes every bite dreamy.
2 green onions, finely chopped: For a fresh, mild onion bite and vibrant color.
2 tablespoons furikake: A Japanese seasoning blend that adds umami crunch and a touch of sea flavor.

How to Make Sushi Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice

Start by rinsing the sushi rice under cold water until it runs clear—this removes excess starch to keep your rice from sticking excessively. Combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low and cover, letting it simmer gently for 20 minutes. Once off the heat, keep the rice covered for another 10 minutes so that it fully absorbs the moisture. Fluff with a fork, then stir in sugar and rice vinegar to replicate that iconic sushi rice tang. Don’t forget, every brand of sushi rice can be a bit different, so make sure to follow package directions closely for perfect results.

Step 2: Prepare the Crab Mixture

While the rice is cooking, finely chop the imitation crab. In a bowl, mix it with 1/4 cup of Kewpie mayonnaise and add wasabi if you want a little zing. This blend creates a creamy, slightly spicy crab topping that will bake beautifully on top of your rice base.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Press the sushi rice firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to create a solid layer. Evenly spread the crab mixture over the rice, making sure it’s well distributed. Bake the layered pan at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes until everything is heated through and the crab topping is slightly bubbly and inviting.

Step 4: Prepare the Toppings

While your sushi bake is warming in the oven, dress the chopped cucumbers in soy sauce and sesame oil to bring out their fresh, nutty flavor. Then, toast the panko breadcrumbs in hot olive oil in a skillet until golden and crisp. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise with Sriracha to create a spicy, creamy drizzle sauce — perfect for finishing your bake.

Step 5: Final Assembly

Once baked, spread the mashed avocados over the crab layer providing silky richness. Scatter the marinated cucumbers on top, then sprinkle with toasted panko for crunch. Drizzle with Sriracha mayo and sprinkle chopped green onions and furikake seasoning generously over everything. Serve immediately while warm, and prepare for a delicious, flavor-packed feast.

How to Serve Sushi Bake Recipe

A square piece of sushi on a white plate with a white marbled background, made of three visible layers: the bottom layer is white sticky rice, the middle layer is light pink crab meat or imitation crab, and the top layer is chopped green zucchini mixed with green onion slices and brown crunchy bits sprinkled on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate the Sushi Bake Recipe instantly. The green onions add a vibrant pop of color and sharp flavor to balance the creamy layers. Furikake provides a nutty, salty, and slightly toasted finish that feels like a playful nod to traditional sushi garnishes. Adding an extra drizzle of plain Sriracha can also boost the spice for those who love a kick.

Side Dishes

To complement your sushi bake, consider serving simple side dishes like a light seaweed salad or pickled ginger to cleanse the palate. Miso soup is also a wonderful, warming companion that enhances the Japanese theme with its umami broth. For a heartier meal, steamed edamame sprinkled with coarse salt offers a fresh burst and additional protein.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to surprise your guests? Serve the sushi bake in individual glass ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets straight from the oven for personalized portions. Another idea is to provide crisp nori sheets for scooping, allowing everyone to make their own sushi bake bites like a DIY sushi party. This interactive way to enjoy the dish adds both fun and flavor!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any sushi bake leftover, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop a bit deeper after resting but be sure to add fresh garnishes like green onions and avocado if possible before serving again for the best texture and taste.

Freezing

While this dish tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers by portioning into freezer-safe containers. Cover tightly, and keep frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that avocado toppings may not freeze well and are best added fresh after reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the sushi bake in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the rice mushy. After reheating, add fresh avocado and garnishes to revive the creaminess and texture before serving.

FAQs

Can I use real crab instead of imitation crab in this Sushi Bake Recipe?

Absolutely! Real crab will add a delicate sweetness and richer flavor, but it can be pricier and less stable when baked. Just make sure your crab meat is cooked and finely shredded before mixing.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be made gluten-free by replacing soy sauce with tamari or another gluten-free soy sauce alternative and ensuring your panko breadcrumbs or substitutes are gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

Yes, you can swap imitation crab with marinated hearts of palm, artichoke hearts, or even seasoned tofu. Use vegan mayonnaise to keep it plant-based, and you’ll have a delicious vegan sushi bake.

How spicy is the Sushi Bake Recipe?

The spice level is moderate and can be adjusted. You can leave out the wasabi and reduce Sriracha if you prefer mild flavors or add more for a fiery kick. It’s all about your taste preference!

What’s the best way to serve leftovers?

Leftovers are great eaten cold or reheated. Adding some extra fresh avocado and a drizzle of soy sauce or spicy mayo freshens up the flavors wonderfully if you’re enjoying it the next day.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got this amazing Sushi Bake Recipe under your belt, I hope you’ll feel inspired to bring a little sushi magic into your home cooking. It’s friendly for beginners, flexible, and endlessly satisfying — a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for casual dinners or special occasions. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite in your recipe rotation!