Sushi bake is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly evening, wrapping you in layers of creamy goodness and delightful umami flavors. Imagine diving into a dish that blends the best of sushi with the cozy vibes of a casserole, where each scoop teases your taste buds with warmth, texture, and that unmistakable sea breeze aroma.
Now, picture this: It’s Friday night, and you’re too exhausted to navigate the sushi bar’s menu. With this sushi bake recipe, you can have an impressive dinner ready in no time while still impressing your friends or family. Seriously, who needs takeout when you can whip up this baked delight in your own kitchen?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy sushi bake recipe combines simplicity with incredible flavor; it’s a one-pan wonder that everyone will adore
- Its vibrant colors and rich textures make it visually appealing on any table
- Perfect for casual gatherings or cozy family dinners, it’s as versatile as it is delicious
- You can easily customize ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary needs
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning! They couldn’t get enough of it and even asked for seconds—definitely a win in my book!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Short-Grain Rice: Opt for sushi rice for sticky perfection; it’s essential for achieving that authentic texture.
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Imitation Crab Meat: This adds that classic seafood flavor without breaking the bank; feel free to substitute real crab if you’re feeling fancy!
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Mayonnaise: Use Japanese mayo for creaminess that’ll take your sushi bake to another level; trust me, you won’t regret it!
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Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce works best here to keep things balanced without overwhelming saltiness.
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Nori Sheets: Cut them into strips for serving; they add an authentic touch to your dish.
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Green Onions: Chopped finely for garnish; they bring freshness and a pop of color to your finished dish.
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Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds are optional but highly recommended for added crunch and flavor.
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Avocado Slices: These are perfect as a topping just before serving; they add creaminess and visual appeal.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Rice: Begin by rinsing 2 cups of short-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions until fluffy and sticky.
Prepare the Sushi Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice with 1 cup of chopped imitation crab meat, ½ cup mayonnaise, and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Mix gently until well combined.
Assemble Your Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sushi filling evenly into a greased baking dish. Make sure every corner is filled with love!
Add Toppings and Bake: Sprinkle some additional crab meat on top if desired and drizzle with more mayonnaise. Bake in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.
Garnish Before Serving: Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before topping with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and avocado slices for that Instagram-worthy finish.
This comforting sushi bake recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also spark joy at any gathering or family dinner!
You Must Know
- The sushi bake recipe combines the best of sushi and comfort food, making it perfect for gatherings
- The creamy texture and rich flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds
- Plus, it’s a fun dish to prepare with friends or family, creating enjoyable memories in the kitchen
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking your rice perfectly before mixing in the other ingredients. Layer the mixture in a baking dish to ensure even cooking and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out proteins like crab or shrimp for tofu or mushrooms. Experiment with different sauces or toppings to personalize your sushi bake recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use sushi rice for its sticky texture—it holds everything together beautifully
- Avoid overcooking the seafood; it should be tender, not rubbery
- Don’t skip the broiling step; it adds a delightful crispy top that everyone loves!
Sharing a memorable moment, my friends devoured this sushi bake recipe during our movie night, declaring it their new favorite dish. Their smiles were priceless and made all the effort worthwhile.

FAQ
Can I use regular rice instead of sushi rice?
Using regular rice may result in a less sticky texture and could affect overall consistency.
How long does this sushi bake take to prepare?
Preparation takes about 20 minutes, while baking typically requires 25 to 30 minutes total.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute seafood with veggies or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version of this sushi bake recipe.
Sushi Bake
Sushi bake is the ultimate comfort food, merging the deliciousness of sushi with the heartiness of a casserole. This creamy, umami-packed dish is perfect for cozy gatherings or family dinners. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a show-stopping meal that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Dive into this easy-to-make recipe for a satisfying experience that captures the essence of sushi in every bite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients
- 2 cups short-grain sushi rice
- 1 cup imitation crab meat, chopped
- ½ cup Japanese mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 4 nori sheets, cut into strips
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 avocado, sliced (for topping)
Instructions
- Rinse sushi rice under cold water until clear, then cook according to package instructions.
- In a bowl, combine cooked rice with imitation crab meat, mayonnaise, and soy sauce. Mix gently.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Add extra crab on top if desired and drizzle with more mayonnaise. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before garnishing with green onions, sesame seeds, and avocado slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the dish (180g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg


