Sushi Bake Recipe

Sushi Bake is a warm, comforting casserole version of sushi, made with layers of sushi rice, imitation crab mix, spicy mayo, and optional unagi sauce. This easy-to-make, sushi-inspired dish is perfect for an everyday dinner, potlucks, or any occasion where you want something delicious and unique. It’s a delightful twist on traditional sushi and offers the best of both worlds: comforting and flavorful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sushi Bake combines all the delicious flavors of sushi in a warm, baked casserole form. It’s rich and creamy, with a perfect balance of savory imitation crab, spicy mayo, and tender sushi rice. The best part is it’s incredibly easy to make and doesn’t require sushi rolling skills! Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply craving a sushi-inspired dish, this recipe will definitely satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Sushi Rice:

• 2 cups sushi rice (medium or short grain, about 4 cups cooked)

• ¼ cup rice vinegar (regular, NOT seasoned rice vinegar)

• 1 ½ tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• Toasted sesame oil (for greasing, optional)

For the Crab Mix:

• 1 pound imitation crab meat

• ½ cup Kewpie mayo

For the Spicy Mayo:

• ¼ cup Kewpie mayo

• 1 tablespoon Sriracha (or more to your preference)

Optional Unagi Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons sake

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (light sodium)

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon mirin

Optional Toppings and Garnish:

• English cucumber (sliced)

• Avocado (sliced)

• Furikake

• Seaweed snack

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Sushi Rice: Wash and rinse the sushi rice 2 to 3 times until the water runs clear. Drain well and cook the rice according to package instructions. In a microwaveable container, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Warm for 20 to 30 seconds to dissolve, then set aside. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a rice paddle and drizzle in the seasoned rice vinegar. Fluff again until absorbed, then cover with a damp towel and set aside.

2. Make the Crab Mixture: Shred the imitation crab meat and place it in a bowl. Add Kewpie mayo and mix until well coated. Set aside.

3. Make the Spicy Mayo: Combine Kewpie mayo and Sriracha in a small bowl. Transfer to a squeeze bottle or Ziploc bag for easy use. Set aside.

4. Optional Unagi Sauce: In a saucepan, combine sake, soy sauce, sugar, and mirin. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened. Let cool and transfer to a squeeze bottle if desired.

5. Assemble and Bake: Preheat the oven to 425°F and grease a 9×9-inch or 9×13-inch casserole pan with sesame oil (optional). Spread the seasoned sushi rice evenly in the casserole pan, pressing it down gently. Optionally, sprinkle furikake on top of the rice. Spread the crab mixture evenly on top of the rice and gently press down. Bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through. For a golden top, broil for a couple of minutes while keeping a close eye on it.

6. Serve: Drizzle the baked sushi with spicy mayo and optional unagi sauce. Garnish with additional furikake, seaweed snacks, cucumber slices, and avocado.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Unagi Sauce: The unagi sauce is optional but adds an authentic touch. You can either make it yourself or buy it pre-made.

• Rice: For best results, cook the rice slightly drier than usual to ensure it holds up well in the casserole.

• Non-Spicy Version: If you prefer a milder version, reduce or omit the Sriracha in the spicy mayo.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out.

• Reheating: To reheat, bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual servings.

FAQs

Can I use real crab meat instead of imitation crab?

Yes! You can substitute real crab meat for imitation crab if you prefer, but it may alter the texture and flavor slightly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sushi bake and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Simply assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 1 day. When ready to bake, heat it in the oven as directed.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, you can use tamari (a gluten-free soy sauce) instead of regular soy sauce to make it gluten-free. Be sure to check that your imitation crab is gluten-free as well.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the imitation crab with a vegetarian option such as seasoned tofu, or leave it out entirely for a vegetable-based sushi bake.

Can I use regular mayo instead of Kewpie mayo?

While Kewpie mayo is preferred for its creamy texture and umami flavor, you can use regular mayo as a substitute. Just keep in mind the flavor will differ slightly.

What can I use instead of sushi rice?

If you can’t find sushi rice, you can substitute short-grain rice, though the texture and stickiness may not be the same.

How do I know when the sushi bake is done?

The sushi bake is done when the top is golden brown and heated through. If you prefer a crispier top, broil for a few minutes but watch it closely to prevent burning.

Can I add other toppings?

Definitely! You can add additional toppings like sliced radishes, pickled ginger, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.

Is this recipe spicy?

The dish has a slight heat from the spicy mayo, but it can be adjusted to your spice tolerance by using less Sriracha or omitting it altogether.

Can I use a different type of sauce instead of spicy mayo?

Yes, you can use plain mayo or another creamy dressing. You can also use a soy sauce-based dressing if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Sushi Bake is the perfect dish for those who love sushi but want something simpler and easier to prepare. With its layers of seasoned rice, creamy crab, and spicy mayo, this dish brings the flavors of sushi into a warm, comforting casserole form. Whether for a casual dinner or a potluck, Sushi Bake will become a crowd favorite with its combination of rich flavors and satisfying textures. Give this easy-to-make sushi-inspired casserole a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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