Name: Spicy Viral Salmon Sushi Bake
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked sushi rice; 340g (12 oz) skinless salmon fillet, cooked and flaked; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce; 2 teaspoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; ½ avocado, sliced; 2 sheets roasted seaweed (nori), cut into squares; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 green onions, sliced thin

Hey y'all! Ready to try the TikTok-famous Spicy Viral Salmon Sushi Bake? Imagine all the bold flavors of your favorite sushi roll, layered in a creamy, spicy, and cheesy bake that’s perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or your next Netflix night. This dish is bursting with umami, spicy-creamy goodness, and seriously satisfying textures—and it comes together effortlessly. Let’s get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Spicy Viral Salmon Sushi Bake

Super easy: Layer, bake, and enjoy—no sushi rolling required!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, parties, or family meals.
Bursting with flavor: Get creamy, spicy, savory, and crispy notes in every bite.
Customizable: Swap in your favorite seafood, proteins, or spice level.
Quick to prepare: Ready in under 35 minutes, start to finish!

Ingredients for Spicy Viral Salmon Sushi Bake

2 cups cooked short-grain sushi rice (about 1 cup uncooked)
¼ cup rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
½ teaspoon salt
12 oz (340g) cooked salmon (baked, pan-seared or canned)
⅓ cup Kewpie mayonnaise (or regular mayo)
2½ tablespoon Sriracha
4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1½ tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon furikake seasoning (plus extra for topping)
1 ripe avocado, diced (optional, for topping)
2 sheets roasted seaweed (nori), sliced into small squares
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions for Spicy Viral Salmon Sushi Bake

1. Prepare the Sushi Rice

In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Gently fold into the warm, cooked rice.
Press the seasoned rice firmly into a greased 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking dish, creating an even layer.

2. Mix the Spicy Salmon Layer

In a separate bowl, flake the cooked salmon. Mix in Kewpie mayo, Sriracha, cream cheese, soy sauce, and green onions until well combined and creamy.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon furikake over the rice layer.
Evenly spread the spicy salmon mixture over the rice and furikake.

3. Bake the Casserole

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Bake uncovered for 18–20 minutes, until bubbling and golden on top.

4. Add Toppings & Serve!

Remove bake from oven. Top with more furikake, sesame seeds, and sliced avocado, if desired.
Serve hot with nori squares for scooping—enjoy!

Notes for the Best Spicy Viral Salmon Sushi Bake

For a deeper flavor, use leftover teriyaki or miso-glazed salmon in your bake. Learn about different Japanese salmon flavors.
If cream cheese is too firm, soften it in the microwave for 10 seconds before mixing.
For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed tempura flakes or panko over the top before baking. See tempura techniques here.

Variations: Make the Sushi Bake Yours

Tuna Sushi Bake: Swap salmon for canned or cooked tuna, or a mixture of both for a twist.
California-Style: Add imitation crab, cucumber, and top with spicy mayo for a California roll flavor.
Vegetarian: Substitute firm tofu or roasted veggies for the salmon for a meat-free option.

Equipment You'll Need

8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking dish
Mixing bowls
Rice cooker or pot
Spatula or spoon
Sharp knife

Storage & Leftover Instructions

Let leftovers cool, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through.
Not suitable for freezing, as the texture of sushi rice and nori can change.

Serving Recommendations: What Goes Well With Spicy Viral Salmon Sushi Bake

Serve warm with extra nori sheets for scooping.
Pair with a simple cucumber salad or pickled ginger.
Add edamame or miso soup for a satisfying Japanese-inspired meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Spicy Viral Salmon Sushi Bake

Use day-old rice for the best texture—it holds together better and absorbs the vinegar more evenly.
Don’t skip the furikake! It adds authentic flavor and beautiful color (check out more ways to use furikake).
Add a drizzle of eel sauce or honey for a sweet-savory kick before serving.

FAQ: All About Spicy Viral Salmon Sushi Bake

Can I use raw salmon?
No, always use cooked salmon for this bake—it’s oven-baked, but starting with raw fish is not recommended due to uneven cooking.
What is furikake? Do I need it?
Furikake is a Japanese rice seasoning with seaweed, sesame, and sometimes fish; it adds authentic flavor, but you can substitute with crushed seaweed & sesame if needed. Learn more here.
Can I make this dish ahead?
Yes! Assemble ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving for convenience.

Spicy Viral Salmon Sushi Bake