Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, a symphony of flavors danced around me, and I knew it was the perfect moment for a cozy culinary adventure. Enter the Quick and Cozy Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake—a dish that effortlessly marries the elegance of sushi with the warming comfort of baked goodness. With succulent salmon bathed in a sweet and tangy teriyaki glaze, this salmon sushi bake is not just quick to prepare but also completely customizable to suit your mood. Picture a delectable base of sticky sushi rice, topped with creamy avocado and a zesty spicy mayo drizzle—perfect for a laid-back dinner or an unexpected gathering. What’s more, it’s meal prep-friendly and offers gluten-free and dairy-free options, proving that comforting food can also be accessible to everyone. Are you excited to create a cozy feast that your taste buds will love? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together! Why Is Salmon Sushi Bake So Special? Comforting and cozy, this dish brings a slice of Japan right into your home kitchen, making it perfect for families or cozy dinners. Quick to prepare, you can whip this up in under 30 minutes—ideal for those busy weeknights! Customizable, it allows for ingredient swaps to suit gluten-free or dairy-free diets, so everyone can enjoy. Packed with flavor, the combination of sweet teriyaki glaze, creamy avocado, and crunchy toppings creates a mouthwatering experience. Finally, meal prep friendly, you can make it ahead and store leftovers with ease—perfect for lunches or snacks. Ready to impress your guests? This dish can easily compete with your favorite sushi takeout! Salmon Sushi Bake Ingredients • The key components of a deliciously comforting Salmon Sushi Bake are waiting for you! For the Salmon Mixture Salmon – The star of the dish, providing rich protein and flavor; swap with shrimp or crab for a different twist. Teriyaki Sauce – Adds a sweet and tangy glaze that elevates the dish; use Japanese BBQ sauce as a nice alternative. Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness and promotes caramelization; you can skip it for a less sweet experience. Kosher Salt – Balances all flavors beautifully; feel free to use table salt if that’s all you have. Garlic Powder – Brings savory depth to the mixture; fresh minced garlic makes a great substitute. For the Base Cooked Sushi Rice – Serves as the sticky foundation; consider short-grain or jasmine rice if sushi rice is not available. For the Toppings Avocado – Adds a creamy and fresh element; you can omit it for a simpler flavor. Spicy Mayo – Provides a delightful kick; easily make your version by mixing mayonnaise with sriracha. Furikake – A Japanese seasoning that enhances umami flavor; crushed nori or sesame seeds can be used instead. Crispy Fried Onion Bits – Adds wonderful crunch and flavor; substitute with panko breadcrumbs for extra texture. Scallions – Offers a fresh and vibrant garnish; chives can also work for a milder flavor profile. Embrace the comfort of this Salmon Sushi Bake and make it your own with all these customizable ingredients! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake: Step 1: Prep the Salmon Begin by removing the skin from the salmon fillet and cutting it into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, mix the salmon pieces with teriyaki sauce and kosher salt, allowing them to marinate for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. You’ll want the salmon to absorb the sweet and tangy notes of the teriyaki sauce, resulting in a tender, flavorful dish. Step 2: Build the Bake In a small baking dish, press the cooked sushi rice firmly to create a flat and even base. Make sure the rice is packed tightly to support the salmon mixture. Once the rice layer is established, evenly distribute the marinated salmon over it, ensuring a good coverage. Sprinkle garlic powder and brown sugar on top, infusing the salmon sushi bake with added savory depth and sweetness. Step 3: Broil Preheat your broiler to high, providing the perfect heat for caramelizing the salmon. Once preheated, place the baking dish under the broiler and cook for about 6 minutes. Keep an eye on the dish; the salmon should turn a lovely golden brown and be cooked through, signifying it’s ready to come out. The goal is to achieve a perfectly caramelized surface without overcooking. Step 4: Add Toppings Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Layer on the cubed avocado for creaminess, followed by a generous drizzle of spicy mayo for an extra kick. Finish with sprinkles of furikake, crispy fried onions, and diced scallions for flavor and texture. Each topping adds a different dimension, turning your Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake into a culinary masterpiece. Step 5: Serve Immediately Once assembled, enjoy the Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake while it’s hot to fully appreciate the rich flavors and comforting textures. Serve it straight from the baking dish for a cozy dining experience. The delightful interplay of the sticky sushi rice, tender salmon, and creamy toppings creates an unforgettable meal perfect for any occasion. How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day to maintain freshness. Reheat gently in the oven to avoid dryness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked salmon mixture and cooked sushi rice separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before assembling. Meal Prep: You can prepare the salmon mixture and rice ahead of time; refrigerate both for up to 24 hours. Mix them just before baking for optimal flavor. Reheating: If baked, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist. Enjoy your cozy salmon sushi bake! Expert Tips for Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake Preheat Broiler Properly: Ensure your broiler is fully preheated to achieve perfect caramelization on the salmon—this makes all the difference! Watch Cooking Time: Keep a close eye while broiling; overcooking can lead to dryness in the salmon, ruining the delicate textures in your sushi bake. Layer Evenly: For consistent cooking, layer the salmon mixture evenly over the sushi rice—this will ensure all parts get the right amount of heat and flavor. Customize Wisely: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients! Using shrimp or alternative sauces can create a truly unique Salmon Sushi Bake tailored to your taste. Storage Tip: If you plan to make it ahead, prepare the salmon mixture and rice separately; refrigerate for up to 24 hours and combine just before broiling for the best results. What to Serve with Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake Complete your meal with these delightful pairings that elevate your dining experience to perfection. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture pairs beautifully with the teriyaki salmon, making each bite a comforting indulgence. Crunchy Asian Slaw: A fresh mix of cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds a vibrant crunch that cuts through the richness of the bake. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad adds a cool contrast alongside the warm sushi bake, balancing flavors perfectly. Pickled Ginger: Enhances the sushi theme, offering sharpness to cleanse the palate between bites of the comforting bake. Sushi-Style Miso Soup: This savory broth complements the flavors of the teriyaki movement, promoting a harmonious Japanese dining experience. Sake or Green Tea: Enjoy these traditional Japanese beverages to enhance the meal’s authenticity and provide a soothing finish. Chocolate Green Tea Cake: This delectable dessert combines sweet and earthy notes for a delightful ending, pairing exceptionally well with the bake’s flavors. Salmon Sushi Bake: Customize Your Dish Feel free to explore your creativity in the kitchen, enhancing flavors and textures to make this dish uniquely yours! Dairy-Free: Swap spicy mayo with avocado for a creamy touch without dairy. Avocado not only adds creaminess but also complements the sweet teriyaki glaze beautifully. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos in place of traditional teriyaki sauce. This simple adjustment ensures everyone can enjoy this delicious flavor profile without worry. Seafood Twist: Replace salmon with cooked shrimp or crab for a delightful seafood variation. Every seafood option brings a different texture, allowing for a new experience each time you make the dish. Vegetarian Version: Try substituting salmon with marinated tofu cubes for a hearty, plant-based option. The tofu will soak up all the teriyaki goodness, satisfying veggie lovers without sacrificing flavor. Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, edamame, or spinach for a vibrant nutrition upgrade. This not only brightens the dish visually but also provides extra fiber and nutrients for a well-rounded meal. Heat Level: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha for added spice in your spicy mayo. The heat contrasts beautifully with the teriyaki sweetness, creating a dish that excites the senses. Nutritional Additions: Incorporate chia or flax seeds to boost omega-3 fatty acids and fiber for a health kick. Adding these super-seeds will make your dish more satiating and nutritious without altering the flavor significantly. Cooking Technique: Instead of broiling, try baking for a more gradual cooking experience, ensuring even heating. This method enriches the flavors as everything melds together beautifully, perfect for those who enjoy a heartier texture. Get inspired and don’t hesitate to blend these ideas into your Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake, making it a family favorite that adapts to your personal taste! For great flavor combinations, consider using leftovers in dishes like Baked Cajun Salmon or Salmon Spinach Pasta. Happy cooking! Make Ahead Options These Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the salmon mixture (including cutting the salmon and marinating it in teriyaki sauce) up to 24 hours in advance by storing it in the refrigerator. The cooked sushi rice can be made ahead and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to store both components in airtight containers to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply layer the marinated salmon over the sushi rice and broil as directed, ensuring each bite is just as delicious as when freshly made. Enjoy your cozy dinner with minimal effort! Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting salmon? Absolutely! Look for fresh salmon fillets that are bright and vibrant in color. Avoid any with dark spots or a dull appearance. If you’re buying it from a shop, the fish should smell clean, not fishy—this indicates freshness! How can I store leftovers from the Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake? Perfect question! Store any leftover sushi bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. To maintain the best flavor and texture, I recommend reheating your sushi bake gently in the oven, ideally at 350°F, and adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist. Can I freeze Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake? Yes indeed! You can freeze the unbaked salmon mixture and the cooked sushi rice separately for up to 2 months. To freeze, first allow the mixture to cool, then place it in airtight containers or freezer bags. For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. What should I do if my salmon turns out dry? Very good to consider! If you notice dry salmon, it likely was cooked too long while broiling. Next time, keep a close eye on it—the cooking time should be around 6 minutes. Make sure the salmon is just golden brown and cooked through but still tender. To salvage slightly dry salmon in leftover dishes, you can mix in a bit of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce to restore some moisture. Are there any dietary considerations for Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake? Certainly! If you have allergies or dietary needs, feel free to customize! You can swap regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. If dairy is a concern, you can skip the spicy mayo or make a dairy-free version using a vegan mayo. Always check your ingredients to ensure they suit your dietary preferences. How long does the sushi rice last in the fridge? Great question! Cooked sushi rice can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to use it, reheat gently before assembling your sushi bake to refresh its lovely sticky texture. Savory Salmon Sushi Bake: Your New Comfort Food Favorite Discover the perfect balance of comfort and flavor with this Salmon Sushi Bake—a customizable dish that's quick to prepare and delightful for any gathering. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 6 minutes minsMarinating Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 26 minutes mins Servings: 4 portionsCourse: CasseroleCuisine: JapaneseCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salmon Mixture1 pound Salmon cut into 1-inch cubes1/4 cup Teriyaki Sauce1 tablespoon Brown Sugar optional for less sweetness1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt can substitute with table salt1 teaspoon Garlic Powder or fresh minced garlicFor the Base2 cups Cooked Sushi Rice or short-grain/jasmine riceFor the Toppings1 medium Avocado cubed1/4 cup Spicy Mayo mix mayonnaise with sriracha2 tablespoons Furikake or crushed nori/sesame seeds1/3 cup Crispy Fried Onion Bits or substitute with panko breadcrumbs2 tablespoons Scallions diced or chives for milder flavor Equipment small baking dishMixing Bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsRemove the skin from the salmon fillet and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Mix the salmon pieces with teriyaki sauce and kosher salt, marinating for about 10 minutes.Press the cooked sushi rice firmly into a small baking dish to create a flat base. Evenly distribute the marinated salmon over it and sprinkle with garlic powder and brown sugar.Preheat the broiler to high. Place the baking dish under the broiler and cook for about 6 minutes until the salmon is golden brown.Remove the dish and layer on cubed avocado, drizzle with spicy mayo, and finish with furikake, crispy onions, and scallions.Serve immediately while hot for the best experience. Nutrition Serving: 1portionCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain moisture and flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!