Why You’ll Love Irresistible Easy Sushi Bake Recipe

It marries convenience and flavor: you get the essence of sushi without the rolling.
The contrast between the crisp rice base and the creamy filling creates delightful texture.
Visually appealing: the layered effect and seaweed pieces add a fun “wow” factor.
It’s great for sharing — ideal for gatherings, family meals, or informal entertaining.

Ingredients

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

Sushi rice (short‑grain, sticky)
Nori sheets (seaweed)
Cream cheese (softened)
Imitation crab meat (chopped)
Sriracha sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
Green onions (chopped)
Low‑sodium soy sauce

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9 × 13‑inch baking dish.
Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the rinse water runs clear, then cook according to package instructions until tender and sticky. Fluff with a fork and spread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped imitation crab meat, green onions, and sriracha sauce; stir until smooth.
Spread the crab‑cheese mixture over the rice in the baking dish. Tear the nori sheets into smaller pieces and scatter them over the top.
Bake for about 20‑25 minutes (until heated through and slightly golden on top).
Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, then cut into squares or scoop portions. Serve warm with soy sauce on the side (and extra sriracha if you like heat).

Servings and timing

Yield: Serves about 8. My Aunty Recipes
Prep time: ~15 minutes. My Aunty Recipes
Cook time: ~25 minutes. My Aunty Recipes
Total time: ~40 minutes. My Aunty Recipes

Variations

Substitute the imitation crab meat with cooked shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Mix in diced avocado or cucumber to add a fresh crunch.
Experiment with toppings or sauces: try spicy mayo, teriyaki glaze, sesame seeds, or pickled ginger.
Use different types of rice: though sushi rice works best for stickiness, you could try short‑grain brown rice for a healthier alternative (texture will differ).

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to one minute until heated through, or reheat in the oven to preserve texture. My Aunty Recipes

FAQs

What exactly is “sushi bake”?

“Sushi bake” is a deconstructed and baked version of sushi: rather than rolling rice and fillings into nori, the ingredients are layered and baked in a dish. It combines familiar sushi flavors with the comfort and ease of a casserole.

Can I use regular rice instead of sushi rice?

You can, but sushi rice (short‑grain, sticky rice) is best because it helps everything hold together. Using long‑grain rice may result in a looser texture and less cohesive bake.

Is imitation crab okay to use or should I use real crab?

Imitation crab is perfectly fine and budget‑friendly; it provides a nice seafood flavor without being overly expensive. If you prefer premium, you can certainly substitute real crab meat.

How spicy is the sriracha layer?

The spice level depends on how much sriracha you add, and on your personal tolerance. You can reduce or omit it if you prefer milder flavors, or add extra for more heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes — you can prepare the rice and filling ahead of time, assemble the dish, then bake when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a good option for entertaining.

Can I freeze leftover sushi bake?

Freezing is possible but may affect texture when thawed (the rice can become slightly mushy). If you do freeze, wrap it tightly and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What kind of side dishes go well with this?

Fresh sides work best to balance the richness: a cucumber salad, seaweed salad, edamame, or pickled ginger can provide a refreshing contrast.

Is this suitable for vegetarians?

You’d need to tweak it: substitute the imitation crab with something like tofu, tempeh, or seasoned mushrooms. Use vegetarian‑friendly sauces and omit fish‑based additions.

How can I make it gluten‑free?

Ensure your soy sauce is gluten‑free (there are tamari or gluten‑free soy alternatives). Verify that your imitation crab and other packaged ingredients don’t contain gluten additives.

What about texture — how do I avoid the rice getting too dry or too soggy?

Stick to the recommended cooking instructions for the rice so it remains sticky but not mushy. Spread it evenly in the dish, and don’t overbake the final dish — bake just until heated through and slightly golden, not until it’s dried out.

Conclusion

This Easy Sushi Bake offers a clever and delicious twist on conventional sushi, making it more accessible and relaxed without sacrificing flavor. With its creamy filling, crisp rice base, and fun presentation, it’s an ideal dish for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or sharing with friends. Give it a try and you may find it becoming one of your go‑to comfort meals.