Name: Sushi Bake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups sushi rice (rinsed well); 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon furikake; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted); 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened); 8 oz crab meat (finely chopped or shredded); 8 oz shrimp (cooked and finely chopped); 1/4 cup mayonnaise (Japanese mayo preferred); 2 large sheets nori; 4 stalks asparagus (blanched and chopped); 2 tablespoons sriracha mayo; 2 tablespoons unagi sushi sauce; 2 medium scallions (diced); 1 large avocado (diced); 1 large cucumber (diced); 1 tablespoon furikake (for finishing touches)

Sushi Bake is the ultimate fusion dish that brings the delightful flavors of sushi into a warm, comforting casserole. This trendy dish is not only a feast for the eyes but is also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. Imagine layers of perfectly seasoned sushi rice topped with creamy crab, shrimp, and a drizzle of savory sauces, all baked to perfection. Ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get started!

Top Reasons to Make Sushi Bake Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Unlike rolling sushi, this bake requires minimal rolling skills and can be assembled quickly.
Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite seafood or vegetables to suit your taste.
Great for Sharing: Perfect for parties, everyone can scoop their portion straight from the dish.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy and savory ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience.

Ingredient Rundown

1 1/2 cups sushi rice: Rinsed well to remove excess starch for perfectly sticky rice.
1/4 cup rice vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor that complements the rice.
1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Balances the acidity of the vinegar.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the rice.
1 tablespoon furikake: A Japanese-inspired sesame seaweed seasoning for added umami.
1 tablespoon sesame seeds: Toasted for a nutty crunch.
1/2 cup cream cheese: Softened to blend smoothly into the mixture.
8 oz crab meat: Finely chopped or shredded; feel free to use imitation crab if preferred.
8 oz shrimp: Cooked and finely chopped, or substitute with salmon or tuna.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: Japanese mayo like Kewpie is preferred for its rich flavor.
2 large sheets nori: A seaweed wrap that will hold everything together.
4 stalks asparagus: Blanched and chopped for a fresh, crunchy texture.
2 tablespoons sriracha mayo: For a spicy kick.
2 tablespoons unagi sushi sauce: Adds a sweet and savory element.
2 medium scallions: Diced for garnish and a hint of freshness.
1 large avocado: Diced to add creaminess.
1 large cucumber: Diced for a refreshing crunch.
1 tablespoon furikake: Sprinkled on top for finishing touches.

Tools of the Trade

Rice cooker or pot: For cooking the sushi rice perfectly.
Baking dish: A medium-sized dish works well to layer your ingredients.
Mixing bowl: For combining the seafood and cream cheese mixture.
Spatula: To spread the rice and toppings evenly.

Stepwise Method: Sushi Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice

Begin by cooking the sushi rice according to your rice cooker or pot instructions. Once cooked, let it cool slightly. In a small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, granulated sugar, and salt. Heat gently to dissolve the sugar and salt, then pour it over the warm rice. Gently fold the mixture to evenly distribute the flavor without mashing the rice.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped crab meat, chopped shrimp, and mayonnaise. Stir until the mixture is well-combined and creamy. Add the blanched asparagus and half of the scallions, folding them in gently.

Step 3: Assemble the Sushi Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In your baking dish, lay down one sheet of nori. Spread half of the sushi rice evenly over the nori. Next, spread the seafood filling on top of the rice, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Finish with another layer of rice, pressing down gently to compact it.

Step 4: Bake

Place the assembled sushi bake in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Drizzle sriracha mayo and unagi sauce over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining scallions, diced avocado, diced cucumber, and a final dusting of furikake.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the sushi bake into squares or scoop it directly from the dish. Serve warm and watch it disappear as everyone digs in!

No-Store Runs Needed

Rice: Most people have sushi rice or regular rice in their pantry.
Seafood: You can easily swap crab and shrimp with leftovers or other seafood options you have on hand.
Condiments: Items like mayo, sriracha, and unagi sauce often linger in the fridge.
Veggies: Use any fresh vegetables you have, such as bell peppers or carrots.

Steer Clear of These

Overcooking the rice: This can make it too mushy to hold its shape.
Using too much mayonnaise: While it adds creaminess, too much can overpower the dish.
Skipping the rice vinegar: This is essential for authentic sushi flavor.
Forgetting the toppings: They add the necessary fresh crunch and flavor contrast.

Save It for Later

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat the sushi bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to enjoy it fresh!

Handy Q&A

Can I make Sushi Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sushi rice and filling a day in advance, and assemble the dish right before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep!

Can I freeze Sushi Bake?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled sushi bake before baking. Just ensure to wrap it tightly. When ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

What can I substitute for crab meat?

You can use cooked shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The key is to use ingredients that can complement the flavors of the dish.

Is Sushi Bake spicy?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. You can reduce the amount of sriracha mayo or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

See You at the Table

Gather your friends and family around the table, because this Sushi Bake Recipe is sure to be a hit! The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone craving more. Enjoy this fun, shareable dish that brings the essence of sushi into a warm, comforting bake. Happy cooking!