Easy Sushi Bake

If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, let me introduce you to my Easy Sushi Bake! This delightful recipe combines creamy crab filling, spicy mayo, and tangy sweet rice in a way that will have your taste buds dancing. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something comforting and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes, making it a hit among everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy the flavors of sushi without having to roll individual pieces. Trust me; once you try this Easy Sushi Bake, it’ll become a go-to favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With just a few steps and minimal prep time, this dish comes together in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the creamy texture and flavorful toppings—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of imitation crab and spicy mayo is irresistible.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this Easy Sushi Bake! These components come together beautifully to create a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor.

For the Rice

• 2 cups dry Calrose Sushi Rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar (Marukan)

For the Filling

• 16 oz imitation crab chopped into small pieces
• 10 cooked tempura shrimp, chopped (I get mine premade from Costco)
• 1/2 cup Japanese mayonnaise
• 2 oz cream cheese
• 1 Tbsp sriracha

For Toppings

• 3 tablespoons furikake
• 1/2 cup Spicy mayo
• 1-2 Tbsp Furikake
• 1/4 cup Unagi

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy Sushi Bake is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Use cooked salmon or tuna instead of imitation crab for a different flavor twist.
• Add some veggies: Toss in diced cucumber or avocado for added crunch and freshness.
• Make it spicy: Increase the amount of sriracha or add some chili flakes if you love heat!
• Try different toppings: Experiment with other sauces or garnishes like sesame seeds or shredded carrots.

How to Make Easy Sushi Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start off by making the sushi rice first. To clean the rice, add the dry Calrose Sushi Rice into a fine-mesh sieve. Then run it under cold water for about 1 minute while mixing the rice around with a spoon. This step is crucial as it removes excess starch, ensuring fluffy rice.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Next, place the rinsed rice into your rice cooker and add the water. Turn it on and let it cook until done. Once ready, transfer the rice to a rimmed baking sheet. Pour 1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar over the warm rice and gently fold it in using a rice paddle. Be gentle—this keeps your rice light and airy!

Step 3: Make the Crab Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine chopped imitation crab, tempura shrimp, Japanese mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, and 1 Tbsp sriracha. Mixing these ingredients well creates that creamy filling we all love!

Step 4: Assemble Your Dish

Evenly spread and compress the cooled sushi rice into your baking sheet. Then sprinkle 3 tablespoons of furikake over the top for an added flavor boost. Next, spread your spicy crab mixture over this layer of rice.

Step 5: Broil It!

Now comes the fun part! Broil your sushi bake in the oven for about 4 minutes until everything is heated through and slightly golden on top. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Step 6: Finish with Toppings

Once out of the oven, drizzle some spicy mayonnaise and Unagi sauce on top for that extra zing! If you’d like, garnish with chopped cucumber, more furikake, or green onion for freshness.

And there you have it—your Easy Sushi Bake is ready to be enjoyed! Serve this dish hot with friends or family; they will surely be impressed by your culinary skills!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Sushi Bake

Making sushi bake can be a delightful experience, and a few simple tips can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use a Rice Cooker: Cooking your sushi rice in a rice cooker ensures perfectly cooked grains every time, making it easier to achieve that ideal sticky texture essential for sushi.
• Let the Rice Cool: Allowing the rice to cool before spreading it on the baking sheet helps prevent the crab mixture from getting mushy. A well-cooled base keeps everything beautifully layered.
• Mix Gently: When combining your crab and cream cheese mixture, use a gentle hand. This preserves the chunks of imitation crab and shrimp, giving you delicious bites of seafood in every scoop.
• Broil Carefully: Keep an eye on your oven while broiling! Broiling times can vary, and you want to achieve that lovely golden crust without burning the top.
• Customize Your Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings! Whether it’s extra sriracha for spice or some avocado slices for creaminess, personalizing your dish can make it even more enjoyable.

How to Serve Easy Sushi Bake

Serving your Easy Sushi Bake is just as important as making it! A beautiful presentation can enhance the dining experience, so let’s explore some ways to present this tasty dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds a crunchy texture and lightness that balances the richness of the bake.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions for a pop of color and mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty flavor and appealing visual contrast, making your dish look even more appetizing.

Side Dishes

• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup pairs wonderfully with sushi bake, offering comforting flavors and a lovely contrast to the dish’s richness.
• Edamame: Lightly salted edamame makes for a healthy side that’s easy to prepare and adds protein without overshadowing the main event.
• Seaweed Salad: The tangy crunch of seaweed salad complements sushi flavors beautifully while adding nutritional benefits.
• Pickled Ginger: A small serving of pickled ginger offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites, enhancing your dining experience with its zingy taste.

Enjoy this Easy Sushi Bake with friends or family—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Sushi Bake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sushi bake to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the sushi bake cool completely.
• Cut into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the sushi bake on a baking sheet and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Have questions about this recipe? Here are some common inquiries!

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

Yes, you can definitely use real crab meat if you prefer! Just make sure to chop it into small pieces similar to the imitation crab.

How can I spice up my Easy Sushi Bake?

If you’re looking for extra heat, you can increase the amount of sriracha in the crab mixture or add sliced jalapeños on top before broiling.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan-friendly?

Yes! You can substitute the imitation crab with marinated tofu or a plant-based seafood alternative, and use vegan mayonnaise instead of Japanese mayonnaise.

What is furikake, and where can I find it?

Furikake is a Japanese seasoning blend that usually contains seaweed, sesame seeds, and other spices. You can find it at Asian grocery stores or online.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Easy Sushi Bake! It’s a delightful dish that combines creamy textures with bold flavors, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience! Happy cooking!