Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake for 2

Caramelized teriyaki salmon nestled on a bed of sticky sushi rice, topped with creamy avocado, spicy mayo, and crispy fried onions creates an irresistible deconstructed sushi experience for two. This clever fusion dish delivers all the beloved flavors of a specialty sushi roll in a convenient, shareable form that's perfect for date night at home without any complex rolling techniques.

I first created this recipe after seeing various sushi bakes trending online, but wanted to perfect a version scaled down for an intimate dinner rather than a crowd. What makes this dish truly special is how it transforms beloved sushi elements into something entirely new yet familiar. The moment the salmon begins to caramelize under the broiler, the kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that builds anticipation. My partner, who typically prefers traditional sushi rolls, was skeptical until that first bite—the way the sticky rice, sweet-savory salmon, creamy avocado, and crispy toppings come together creates a perfect harmony that's somehow even more satisfying than the sum of its parts. Now it's our go-to for at-home date nights when we want something that feels special without hours of preparation.

Perfect Ingredient Selection

• Fresh Salmon: Forms the protein foundation with its rich flavor and tender texture that caramelizes beautifully
• Quality Teriyaki Sauce: Provides the signature sweet-savory glaze that defines the dish's flavor profile
• Brown Sugar: Creates that irresistible sticky, caramelized exterior on the salmon pieces
• Sticky Sushi Rice: Offers the perfect base with its distinctive texture and subtle flavor
• Ripe Avocado: Adds creamy richness and cooling contrast to the glazed salmon
• Spicy Mayo: Delivers a gentle heat and creamy tanginess that ties all elements together
• Furikake Seasoning: Introduces the essential nori flavor and umami depth of traditional sushi
• Crispy Fried Onion Bits: Provide crucial textural contrast and savory depth
• Fresh Scallions: Add brightness, color, and a mild onion flavor that cuts through the richness
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the teriyaki glaze with subtle aromatic notes

Creating Sushi Magic

Prepare The Salmon Perfectly

Begin by carefully removing the skin from fresh salmon fillets, then cutting the fish into uniform 1-inch cubes. This thoughtful sizing ensures quick, even caramelization under the broiler while maintaining the salmon's moisture and tenderness.

Create The Flavor Base

Gently toss the salmon cubes in quality teriyaki sauce and a pinch of kosher salt, allowing them to marinate briefly. This short marination infuses the fish with savory-sweet flavor that will intensify during cooking without overwhelming the salmon's natural taste.

Build The Foundation

Spread warm, cooked sushi rice in an even layer across the bottom of a small baking dish, pressing gently to create a compact, level surface. This careful preparation ensures every bite includes the perfect proportion of rice to toppings.

Arrange For Caramelization

Distribute the teriyaki-coated salmon pieces evenly across the rice base, then sprinkle with garlic powder to add depth. This arrangement allows the broiler's heat to reach each piece of fish, creating maximum caramelization on the exposed surfaces.

Broil To Perfection

Place the dish near the top rack under a preheated broiler for approximately 6 minutes, watching carefully as the teriyaki sauce and brown sugar begin to bubble and caramelize. This quick, high-heat cooking method develops complex flavors while keeping the salmon tender.

Layer The Finishing Elements

Remove from the broiler and immediately add slices of ripe avocado, artful drizzles of spicy mayo, a generous sprinkle of furikake seasoning, crispy fried onion bits, and fresh scallions. This final assembly adds contrasting temperatures, textures, and flavors that make each bite exciting.

Serve For Sharing

Present the still-warm baking dish at the center of the table with small plates and spoons, encouraging sharing and conversation. The visual appeal of the colorful, layered dish enhances the dining experience before the first bite is even taken.

Pin it

My partner particularly loves when I add a thin layer of cream cheese beneath the salmon for an even more indulgent twist reminiscent of a Philadelphia roll. I've discovered that a light drizzle of unagi sauce alongside the spicy mayo creates an amazing flavor depth. For special occasions, I sometimes include a small amount of tobiko or masago for a delicate pop of texture and briny flavor that elevates the dish even further.

The recipe evolved from my love of both traditional sushi and casual, shareable dishes. There's something uniquely satisfying about transforming familiar flavors into a new format that preserves what we love about the original while adding its own distinct character. This sushi bake embodies that perfect balance between innovation and comfort.

Perfect Pairings

This deconstructed sushi experience creates a delightful dining occasion when served alongside thoughtfully chosen accompaniments. Serve with a small bowl of miso soup to start the meal in true Japanese restaurant fashion, the savory broth warming the palate for the flavors to come. Crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar provides refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy elements of the sushi bake. For a more substantial spread, include edamame sprinkled with flaky sea salt for an authentic appetizer that adds a nutritious element to the meal. Beverage pairings might include chilled sake for traditional enjoyment, a crisp Japanese beer like Sapporo or Asahi, or a light-bodied white wine such as Pinot Grigio that won't overwhelm the delicate flavors. For non-alcoholic options, consider green tea served either hot or iced depending on the season, or a sparkling water with yuzu or cucumber for a refreshing palate cleanser.

Creative Variations

Transform this versatile base recipe by exploring different flavor combinations that maintain the dish's essential character while introducing exciting new dimensions. Create a spicy tuna version by substituting finely diced raw sashimi-grade tuna mixed with sriracha and sesame oil for the salmon, adding it after baking the rice base. For a California roll-inspired bake, replace the salmon with imitation crab sticks torn into pieces and mixed with a touch of mayonnaise. Vegetarians can enjoy a creative variation using marinated tofu or mushrooms in place of salmon, adding extra umami elements like miso paste to the marinade. For a tropical twist, incorporate mango slices alongside the avocado and garnish with toasted coconut flakes. During winter months, try a warming version with a touch of ginger and wasabi mixed into the spicy mayo topping. For entertaining larger groups, simply double or triple the recipe and use a larger baking dish, maintaining the same proportion of ingredients for consistent results.

Make-Ahead Strategy

Maximize convenience while preserving quality by preparing components in advance for quick assembly when needed. Cook the sushi rice up to one day ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator; reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of water before using. The salmon can be cubed and marinated up to four hours in advance, stored covered in the refrigerator. Prepare the spicy mayo up to a week ahead and keep refrigerated in a squeeze bottle for easy application. For the freshest presentation, slice the avocado and scallions just before serving to prevent discoloration and preserve their vibrant appearance. If you need to fully assemble the dish in advance, complete all steps except adding the avocado and crispy toppings, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to six hours; bring to room temperature, add the final toppings, and briefly warm under the broiler just before serving.

I'll never forget serving this to friends who had been hesitant about trying homemade sushi—their expressions transformed from uncertainty to delight with the very first bite. There's something magical about creating a dish that delivers all the joy of restaurant dining in a completely approachable format. This sushi bake has become our tradition for celebrating small victories and meaningful moments, proof that special dining experiences don't require expensive outings or complex techniques. The way it brings together beloved flavors in a shareable form perfectly captures what I love most about cooking—creating food that connects people through shared enjoyment. Whether you're marking a special occasion or simply elevating an ordinary Tuesday, this dish transforms dinner into an experience worth savoring.

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes! This recipe works great with tuna, shrimp, or even imitation crab meat. Just adjust cooking time accordingly - shrimp and imitation crab will need less time under the broiler.

→ What if I don't have furikake seasoning?

You can make a simple substitute by mixing toasted sesame seeds with a crumbled sheet of nori (seaweed). Or simply use toasted sesame seeds and a sprinkle of salt.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the sushi rice and marinate the salmon up to a day ahead. When ready to eat, assemble and broil, then add the fresh toppings just before serving.

→ How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon should look opaque rather than translucent and flake easily with a fork. Since it's cut into small pieces and cooked under high heat, 6 minutes is usually perfect.

→ What can I serve with this sushi bake?

A simple miso soup, cucumber salad, or edamame makes a perfect side dish. You can also serve with sheets of nori (seaweed) to scoop up the rice and salmon mixture.

→ How can I make this spicier?

Add sriracha or a sprinkle of togarashi (Japanese chili pepper) to the spicy mayo. You can also mix a bit of wasabi into the teriyaki marinade for the salmon.