As I prepared to surprise my family with an easy dinner, the scent of savory teriyaki salmon wafted through the kitchen, igniting excitement for a comforting meal. This Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake is my go-to recipe when I crave the deliciousness of sushi but want to skip the fancy rolling. With tender, marinated salmon nestled atop a bed of sticky sushi rice, it’s a dish that’s both impressive and effortlessly satisfying. The creamy avocado, spicy mayo, and crispy fried onions add delightful layers of texture that elevate this comfort food. Plus, it’s fully customizable, so everyone can tweak their portions just how they like! Are you ready to dive into this mouthwatering sushi-inspired creation?
Why is this Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake a must-try?
Comforting Appeal: This dish combines the beloved flavors of sushi into an easy-to-make bake, perfect for any night of the week.
Unforgettable Flavor: The perfectly glazed salmon bursts with savory teriyaki goodness, while the creamy avocado and spicy mayo add a delicious twist.
Customizable Fun: Personalize each portion with a variety of toppings to suit everyone’s taste buds!
Effortless Preparation: Skip the rolling, as this simple bake only requires a few steps to achieve impressive results.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers, it’s a guaranteed hit that invites second helpings!
For more sushi-inspired ideas, don’t miss out on my Honey Garlic Salmon or the delicious Baked Salmon Honey recipes!
Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this delicious Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake!
For the Salmon
- ¾ lb Salmon – Coho salmon is recommended for its firm texture and flavor.
- 3 tablespoons Teriyaki Sauce – Adds sweetness and depth; can substitute with Japanese BBQ sauce.
- ¼ teaspoon Kosher Salt – Enhances salmon flavor; adjust based on personal preference.
- ¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder – Adds flavor depth; fresh garlic can be used for a stronger flavor.
For the Base
- 3 cups Cooked Sushi Rice – The sticky rice is essential for sushi-style texture.
- 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar – Enhances caramelization; reduce for a less sweet profile.
For the Toppings
- 1 small Avocado, cubed – Adds creaminess and freshness; can substitute with sliced cucumbers for crunch.
- 3 tablespoons Spicy Mayo – Combines mayonnaise with sriracha for a creamy and spicy kick.
- 1 tablespoon Furikake – A Japanese seasoning blend that enhances umami; can use sesame seeds and nori as substitutes.
- 2 tablespoons Crispy Fried Onion Bits – Adds crunch; can be replaced with chopped nuts for a different texture.
- 2 tablespoons Scallions, finely diced – Brightens the dish with a mild onion kick; can substitute with chives.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by removing the skin from ¾ lb of coho salmon and cutting it into 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, combine the salmon with 3 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce, ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, allowing the flavors to meld for at least 15 minutes while you prep the rice and the baking dish.
Step 2: Build the Sushi Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Take 3 cups of cooked sushi rice and press it evenly into the bottom of a greased baking dish, creating a solid base. Layer the marinated salmon pieces on top, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of brown sugar over the salmon to enhance the caramelization during broiling.
Step 3: Broil the Salmon
Set your oven to broil and position the baking dish on the top rack, about 6 inches from the heating element. Broil the sushi bake for about 6 minutes or until the salmon is caramelized and cooked through. Keep a close eye on it, as broiler times can vary; the salmon should look golden and slightly crispy on the edges.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Once broiled, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Start layering with the cubed avocado, distributing it evenly for creaminess. Next, drizzle on 3 tablespoons of spicy mayo, and then sprinkle 1 tablespoon of furikake for an umami kick. Finish the dish by adding 2 tablespoons of crispy fried onion bits and 2 tablespoons of finely diced scallions for a pop of color and crunch.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it immediately while hot, allowing the layers of flavors and textures to shine. The warm salmon, sticky rice, and fresh toppings combine into a comforting dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests.
Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake Variations
Feel free to make this Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake your own with these delightful twists!
- Shrimp Swap: Substitute the salmon with cooked shrimp. Their sweet flavor will pair beautifully with the teriyaki sauce!
- Vegetarian Delight: Use cubed tofu or imitation crab for a vegetarian version that still captures the essence of sushi.
- Creamy Addition: Add a layer of cream cheese before baking for a richer, decadent experience that dazzles the taste buds!
- Crispy Crunch: Replace crispy fried onions with chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for a buttery crunch and a different flavor profile.
- Tangy Twist: Incorporate diced pickled radish or cucumber for a refreshing crunch that brightens the dish.
- Heat it Up: Adjust the spice by adding more sriracha to your spicy mayo or sprinkle togarashi seasoning on top for an extra kick!
- Umami Boost: Mix in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, umami-rich element that deepens the dish’s flavor.
- Sushi Night Fun: Serve with sides like homemade ginger salad or miso soup for a complete sushi night experience!
For more sushi-inspired ideas, consider trying my Cheesy Spinach Bake or the Protein Egg Bake for delightful dishes that will impress your family!
Make Ahead Options
This Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake is ideal for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the salmon and assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The sushi rice can be cooked a day ahead and kept in an airtight container to maintain its moisture. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish, broil the assembled bake directly from the fridge for about 6 minutes, or until the salmon is perfectly caramelized. This way, you’ll have a fresh, crowd-pleasing meal without the last-minute hustle, ensuring it remains just as delicious!
Storage Tips for Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To maintain texture, reheat gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the rice chewy.
Serving: Refresh the dish by adding fresh toppings like avocado and scallions just before serving to enhance flavor and texture in your Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake.
Expert Tips for Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake
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Marinate Well: Ensure the salmon is marinated for at least 15 minutes to infuse maximum teriyaki flavor into the fish.
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Use Fresh Rice: Opt for freshly cooked sushi rice for the best texture. Cold rice can become too hard and lose its stickiness.
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Watch the Broil: Keep a close eye while broiling to avoid burning. Cook until salmon is caramelized yet still tender.
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Customize Toppings: Feel free to customize your Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake toppings according to your family’s preferences for a more personalized dish!
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Keep it Warm: Serve immediately while hot for the best taste and melt-in-your-mouth experience. Reheat leftovers gently to maintain texture.
What to Serve with Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake
As you savor the layers of this delightful bake, consider these perfect accompaniments to create a warm and inviting meal.
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Miso Soup: A comforting bowl of umami-rich miso soup balances the savory flavors of the sushi bake, providing a soothing start to your meal.
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Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame adds a fresh pop of green and a satisfying crunch, making it a nutritious and easy side.
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Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with rice vinegar and sesame oil complements the richness of the salmon, enhancing your dining experience.
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Sautéed Bok Choy: This tender, sautéed vegetable brings a mild crunch and a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the soy notes in the dish.
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Rice Paper Rolls: Fresh rice paper rolls filled with crispy vegetables and herbs provide a lovely contrast in texture, adding a fun, interactive element to your meal.
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Chilled Sake: For the perfect drink pairing, serve chilled sake. Its smooth flavors harmonize with the teriyaki glaze while enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Green Tea Ice Cream: Finish your meal on a delightful note with a scoop of creamy green tea ice cream. Its refreshing, slightly bitter flavor creates a perfect balance after the savory dish.
Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting salmon?
Absolutely! When selecting salmon for your Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake, look for bright, vibrant flesh without any dark spots or discoloration. Fresh salmon should have a mild, ocean-like smell — avoid those that have a strong fishy odor. I often recommend coho salmon for its firm texture, which holds up beautifully in this dish!
How should I store leftovers?
Very! Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Allow the sushi bake to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which could make the rice soggy. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore its delightful texture.
Can I freeze the Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let the dish cool completely. Then, store it in an airtight container or tightly wrap it in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps maintain the delicious texture.
What if my sushi rice is too dry?
Very! If your sushi rice seems too dry, you can add a small splash of water or a bit of additional teriyaki sauce to enhance its moisture. Gently fold it into the rice after cooking. Also, ensure that your rice is cooked properly: it should be sticky yet fluffy, not hard or clumpy, which can happen if it isn’t cooked or cooled correctly.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, you can substitute the salmon for cooked shrimp, imitation crab, or tofu for a vegetarian version. Additionally, be mindful of allergies when choosing toppings—whether you’re using spicy mayo, which includes sriracha, or fried onion bits, and be sure to check that they fit your dietary needs. Always feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients!
Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake: A Cozy Twist on Sushi Night
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by removing the skin from ¾ lb of coho salmon and cutting it into 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, combine the salmon with 3 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce, ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, allowing the flavors to meld for at least 15 minutes while you prep the rice and the baking dish.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Take 3 cups of cooked sushi rice and press it evenly into the bottom of a greased baking dish, creating a solid base. Layer the marinated salmon pieces on top, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of brown sugar over the salmon to enhance the caramelization during broiling.
- Set your oven to broil and position the baking dish on the top rack, about 6 inches from the heating element. Broil the sushi bake for about 6 minutes or until the salmon is caramelized and cooked through.
- Once broiled, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Start layering with the cubed avocado, distributing it evenly for creaminess. Next, drizzle on 3 tablespoons of spicy mayo, and then sprinkle 1 tablespoon of furikake. Finish the dish by adding 2 tablespoons of crispy fried onion bits and 2 tablespoons of finely diced scallions.
- Your Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it immediately while hot, allowing the layers of flavors and textures to shine.