If you love sushi but want something easier and cozier to make at home, these Oven-Baked Salmon Sushi Bites are your new favorite fusion recipe. Think crispy rice squares topped with creamy, flavorful salmon, drizzled with spicy mayo, and baked to golden perfection—it’s sushi, reimagined! Perfect for parties, appetizers, or even dinner, these bites pack all the sushi flavors you crave with none of the hassle.
The first time I made these, I was amazed at how delicious and addictive they were. Once, I added a drizzle of eel sauce for extra umami—it was a total game-changer. Each bite combines crunchy rice, buttery salmon, and creamy sauce into one unforgettable dish that’s both elegant and easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Oven-Baked Salmon Sushi Bites deliver all the sushi bar flavor with minimal effort—no rolling required! The crispy rice layer forms a perfect base for the savory salmon topping, while the spicy mayo adds richness and heat. They’re baked instead of fried, making them lighter yet just as satisfying. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving sushi night at home, this recipe is a showstopper.
Print
Oven-Baked Salmon Sushi Bites: Crispy, Creamy, and Irresistibly Flavorful
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 16 bites
- Diet: Halal
Description
A delicious fusion of baked salmon and sushi — these oven-baked salmon sushi bites feature creamy salmon filling on crispy rice squares, topped with spicy mayo and sesame seeds for the ultimate appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- For Topping:
- ¼ cup Japanese mayo (Kewpie or regular)
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
- Green onions, thinly sliced
- Nori strips (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir into cooked sushi rice while still warm. Spread rice onto a parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking dish, pressing firmly into an even layer. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until lightly crisp on top. Let cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized squares.
- Meanwhile, place the salmon fillet on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with soy sauce and sesame oil. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until fully cooked and flaky.
- In a bowl, shred the cooked salmon with a fork. Mix with mayonnaise, sriracha (if using), and green onions until creamy and well combined.
- Spoon a small amount of the salmon mixture onto each baked rice square.
- In another small bowl, mix Japanese mayo, sriracha, and sesame oil. Drizzle over the salmon bites.
- Top with toasted sesame seeds, green onions, and nori strips if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, lightly pan-fry the rice squares in oil before topping.
- You can substitute canned salmon or tuna for a quick version.
- Make it spicier by adding more sriracha to the sauce.
- Serve with soy sauce or eel sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Appetizer / Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Japanese Fusion
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cooked sushi rice – Sticky and tender, it forms the crispy base for the bites.
Rice vinegar, sugar, and salt – Mixed into the rice to create authentic sushi flavor.
Salmon fillet (skinless) – Fresh, flaky, and perfect for baking with sauce.
Soy sauce – Adds salty umami depth to the salmon mixture.
Sriracha – Brings a gentle heat that complements the creamy sauce.
Mayonnaise – Creates the rich, smooth texture for the spicy topping.
Cream cheese (softened) – Adds creaminess and balances the spice.
Green onions (chopped) – Adds freshness and mild crunch.
Sesame oil – Adds nutty aroma and depth to the salmon mixture.
Olive oil or nonstick spray – Helps crisp up the rice layer.
Sesame seeds and nori flakes (optional) – For garnish and authentic sushi flavor.
Directions
- Prepare the rice base: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix cooked sushi rice with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Spread evenly in a parchment-lined baking dish or pan (about 9×9 inches). Press down firmly to form a compact layer. Brush lightly with olive oil or spray with nonstick spray.
- Bake the rice: Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the top turns lightly golden and crisp. Remove and let cool slightly, then cut into small squares or rectangles.
- Prepare the salmon mixture: In a bowl, mix flaked cooked salmon (or bake raw salmon for 12–15 minutes first) with mayonnaise, cream cheese, soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha, and green onions until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the bites: Place a spoonful of the salmon mixture on each crispy rice square. Spread evenly to cover the top.
- Bake again: Return to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes until the tops are slightly golden and bubbly.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle with extra spicy mayo, sprinkle with sesame seeds or nori flakes, and serve warm.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12–16 sushi bites and serves 4 people. It takes about 40 minutes total—15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of baking. Perfect for appetizers, lunch, or a creative dinner.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–6 minutes until warm and crisp again. Avoid microwaving to keep the rice crispy.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Tuna Sushi Bites
Replace the salmon with canned or fresh tuna for a spicy twist.
Eel Sauce Drizzle
Add a drizzle of sweet eel sauce or teriyaki glaze before serving for an extra burst of umami.
Avocado Topping
Top each bite with sliced avocado before serving for creamy freshness.
Crunchy Tempura Version
Sprinkle crushed tempura flakes or panko over the top for added texture.
Lemon Garlic Salmon Bites
Add lemon zest and minced garlic to the salmon mixture for a bright, zesty flavor.
Vegetarian Option
Use a mix of spicy tofu and avocado instead of salmon.
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover salmon?
Yes! Leftover baked or grilled salmon works perfectly for this recipe.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice and salmon mixture ahead and assemble before baking.
3. Can I air fry instead of baking?
Yes, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes for extra crispiness.
4. Can I use regular rice?
You can, but sushi rice holds together best due to its stickiness.
5. Can I make them spicy?
Increase the sriracha or add chili flakes to the sauce for more heat.
6. Can I use canned salmon?
Yes, just drain well and flake before mixing.
7. Can I make this dairy-free?
Use vegan cream cheese and mayo alternatives.
8. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely—finely diced cucumber, avocado, or jalapeño work great.
9. Can I skip baking the rice?
Baking gives it crisp texture; skipping will make it soft like sushi rice.
10. What should I serve with it?
Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, or a fresh cucumber salad for balance.
Conclusion
Oven-Baked Salmon Sushi Bites combine the best of both worlds: the comforting warmth of baked salmon and the irresistible flavors of sushi. With crispy rice, creamy salmon topping, and spicy-sweet sauce, these bites are elegant yet easy, perfect for parties or a cozy night in. Once you try them, you’ll never look at sushi the same way again—these bites are a true crowd-pleaser.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!