Easy Sushi Bake Recipe

Sushi bake is an innovative and delicious way to enjoy sushi without the need for rolling! This dish combines all the wonderful flavors of sushi into a baked casserole that’s easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or family dinners. With its creamy, savory topping and a warm bed of seasoned rice, this dish is sure to please sushi lovers and novices alike.

What is Sushi Bake?

Sushi bake is a fusion dish that brings together traditional sushi flavors and a casserole format. It typically consists of sushi rice layered with a mixture of seafood, cream cheese, and various seasonings, all baked until bubbly and golden. Served warm, it’s often garnished with seaweed and drizzled with sauces, making it an appealing and hearty dish.

Equipment Needed

• Large pot: For cooking the rice.
• Mixing bowls: For preparing the filling.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: For assembling and baking the sushi bake.
• Spatula: For mixing ingredients and spreading the filling.
• Oven: Preheated to 350°F (175°C).

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice

1. Rinse the Rice: Begin by rinsing the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
2. Cook the Rice: In a large pot, combine the rinsed sushi rice and water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
3. Season the Rice: In a small bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit covered for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the rice to a large mixing bowl and gently fold in the vinegar mixture with a spatula. Allow the rice to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix the Filling Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the chopped imitation crab meat, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, and shredded carrots (if using). Stir until well combined and the mixture is creamy.
2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more sriracha for heat or more mayonnaise for creaminess.

Step 3: Assemble the Sushi Bake

1. Layer the Rice: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In your baking dish, spread the seasoned sushi rice evenly across the bottom, pressing it down gently to form an even layer.
2. Add the Filling: Spoon the crab mixture over the sushi rice and spread it out evenly. Use a spatula to gently press it down, ensuring it adheres to the rice.
3. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and furikake seasoning. Mix well until the panko is evenly coated.
4. Top the Bake: Sprinkle the panko mixture over the crab filling, ensuring an even layer.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
2. Broil for Extra Crispiness: If desired, switch your oven to broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve an extra crispy topping. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Once baked, remove the sushi bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped seaweed sheets.
2. Slice and Serve: Cut the sushi bake into squares or rectangles for serving. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side for dipping.

Tips for Success

1. Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality ingredients can significantly enhance the flavor of your sushi bake. Opt for fresh seafood and good-quality mayonnaise.
2. Customize Your Filling: Feel free to experiment with different seafood options like shrimp, scallops, or even cooked salmon. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or cucumber for extra crunch.
3. Make It Spicy: If you love spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or extra sriracha to the filling for an added kick.
4. Add Avocado: Sliced or mashed avocado can be layered on top of the crab filling before adding the panko for a creamy texture.
5. Presentation Matters: For an appealing presentation, serve your sushi bake on a large platter and garnish with additional green onions or sesame seeds.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Rice: Be careful not to overcook the sushi rice. It should be sticky but not mushy. Follow the cooking times and let it rest after cooking.
2. Skipping the Seasoning: Seasoning the rice is crucial for flavor. Don’t skip the vinegar, sugar, and salt mixture!
3. Not Letting It Cool: Allowing the sushi bake to cool for a few minutes before serving will help it set up slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.
4. Using the Wrong Dish: Make sure to use a baking dish that’s large enough to hold all the ingredients without overflowing.
5. Not Baking Long Enough: Ensure the panko topping is golden brown for the best texture. If it looks pale, leave it in the oven a bit longer.

Storing and Reheating

1. Storing Leftovers: Allow any leftovers to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: If you want to freeze the sushi bake, do so before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
3. Reheating: To reheat, place the sushi bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can cover it with foil to prevent the topping from over-browning.

Conclusion

The Easy Sushi Bake is a delightful twist on traditional sushi that brings the joy of sushi to a whole new level. Its creamy, flavorful filling and crispy topping make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. The versatility of the dish allows you to customize the ingredients according to your preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.

Next time you crave sushi but want a simpler preparation, give this Easy Sushi Bake a try. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your home. Gather your loved ones, serve it warm, and watch as they dive into this delicious dish!

FAQs

1. Can I use real crab instead of imitation crab? Yes, you can use real crab meat if you prefer. Just make sure to flake it into small pieces for the best texture.

2. How can I make this dish gluten-free? To make the recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that your panko breadcrumbs are gluten-free.

3. Can I make this in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the sushi bake ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it right before you’re ready to serve.

4. What can I serve with sushi bake? Sushi bake pairs well with a simple side salad, edamame, or even some fresh sushi rolls for a more complete meal.

5. How can I add more vegetables to the dish? You can mix in additional veggies such as diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or peas into the filling to add nutrition and crunch.

Yield: 6

Easy Sushi Bake Recipe

Print

Sushi bake is an innovative and delicious way to enjoy sushi without the need for rolling! This dish combines all the wonderful flavors of sushi into a baked casserole that’s easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or family dinners. With its creamy, savory topping and a warm bed of seasoned rice, this dish is sure to please sushi lovers and novices alike.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Rice:
• 2 cups sushi rice
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• For the Topping:
• 8 oz (225g) imitation crab meat or cooked shrimp, chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 green onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 1/2 cup shredded nori (seaweed)
• For Serving:
• Additional nori sheets, cut into strips
• Soy sauce
• Wasabi (optional)
• Pickled ginger (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sushi Rice:

• Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
• In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 10 minutes, covered.
• In a small bowl, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the cooked rice. Allow the rice to cool slightly.

2. Make the Topping:

• In a large bowl, combine the chopped imitation crab or shrimp, mayonnaise, sriracha, cream cheese, chopped green onion, and sesame seeds. Mix until well combined.

3. Assemble the Sushi Bake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread the sushi rice evenly across the bottom.
• Spoon the topping mixture over the rice, spreading it evenly.

4. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is heated through and slightly golden on top.

5. Serve:

• Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with shredded nori strips.
• Serve warm with additional nori strips, soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.

Notes

Customization: Feel free to add other toppings like avocado, cucumber, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Serving Tip: This dish is great for gatherings and can be served as an appetizer or a main dish!