If you’re craving all the freshness of sushi without rolling a single piece, let me introduce you to the Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl. This dish captures the irresistible flavors of your favorite salmon sushi roll—think perfectly cooked salmon, creamy avocado, crunchy cucumbers, spicy mayo, and the nutty pop of furikake—nestled together over steamy, fluffy rice. It’s bold, beautiful, and designed for weeknight ease! Whether you’re a long-time sushi lover or just looking for a new way to enjoy salmon, this bowl brings everything together in one cozy, customizable meal.

Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of vibrant, everyday ingredients to create this Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl. Each component adds dimension, from silky textures to pops of umami and vibrant color. Swap a few to suit your taste, but together, they’re truly magic!

Salmon filets: Go for fresh, high-quality filets for the best flavor and tenderness—four to six ounces each is perfect for hearty portions.
Kosher salt and ground black pepper: A pinch of both wakes up all the other flavors in your salmon.
Soy sauce: Adds deep umami; swap for tamari to keep the dish gluten-free.
Chili garlic sauce: Delivers a zippy kick—use Sriracha as a tasty substitute.
Avocado oil: With its high smoke point and neutral flavor, it’s ideal for searing; olive oil works in a pinch.
Mayonnaise: Classic mayo creates that iconic creamy, spicy sushi bar sauce.
Rice: Any type you love will work, but sticky short-grain rice or jasmine creates the ultimate base.
Avocado: Sliced ripe avocados add richness and that signature buttery bite.
English cucumber: Thin slices keep each forkful crisp and refreshing.
Furikake seasoning: This sesame-seaweed sprinkle is what really makes it feel like sushi in a bowl!
Extra soy sauce: Tastes amazing drizzled over the top—tamari is an easy gluten-free swap.

How to Make Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

First things first: pat your salmon filets dry with a clean paper towel—this helps them sear beautifully. Lightly season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce and chili garlic sauce, then generously brush this savory mixture all over the salmon. Don’t be shy; this is what locks in so much flavor!

Step 2: Preheat and Sear

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Bring a large cast iron skillet to medium-high heat, add your oil, and swirl to coat the pan. Place the salmon, skin-side up, into the skillet. Let them sizzle for 2 to 4 minutes—just enough to get that gorgeous golden crust. Flip the filets, turn off the heat, and transfer the whole skillet to the oven.

Step 3: Bake the Salmon

Pop the skillet onto the oven’s middle rack and let the salmon bake, uncovered, for 10 to 14 minutes. You’re aiming for a perfectly cooked filet that flakes easily with a fork and hits an internal temperature of 140 degrees F. This method keeps the fish moist but gives it irresistible depth of flavor!

Step 4: Make Spicy Mayo

While the salmon is baking, whisk together the mayonnaise and chili garlic sauce in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the heat to your liking—add more sauce if you love a fiery kick or keep it mellow for creamy comfort.

Step 5: Build Your Bowls

Now for the fun part: scoop hot cooked rice into each bowl (four heaping cups, divided). Flake your baked salmon over the rice, then arrange slices of avocado and cucumber on top. Drizzle with as much spicy mayo as your heart desires, shower each bowl with a sprinkle of furikake, and set out a bottle of soy sauce for drizzling. Dinner’s served!

How to Serve Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl

Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl Garnishes

Garnishes are where you can get playful! Beyond the classic furikake, try adding thinly sliced scallions, a scatter of toasted sesame seeds, or a few sheets of roasted nori torn into ribbons. A sprinkle of pickled ginger on the side gives that true sushi experience.

Side Dishes

Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides—think miso soup, steamed edamame, or a bright seaweed salad. For something warming, consider a bowl of clear broth or simply some crunchy veggie sticks to dip in leftover spicy mayo.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this into a sushi night centerpiece! Set out the toppings buffet-style for everyone to build their own Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl, or press the rice into small mounds and top with salmon for a deconstructed nigiri feel. For fun weeknight flair, serve the bowls with chopsticks and little dishes of dipping sauces.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl components store beautifully if kept separate. Place the salmon, rice, and veggies in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to two days. Keep the spicy mayo and garnishes stored individually to preserve their texture and freshness.

Freezing

If you want to get ahead, the cooked salmon can be frozen for up to a month. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and store in a zip-top freezer bag. Rice can be frozen too—just spread it out to cool before packing it away. Thaw everything in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

For the juiciest salmon, gently reheat slices in the microwave with a damp paper towel draped over the plate, or warm in a low oven just until hot. Rice revives quickly with a splash of water and a quick steam in the microwave. Add fresh avocado and cucumber just before serving to keep things vibrant and crisp.

FAQs

Can I use leftover cooked salmon?

Absolutely! This Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl is a fabulous way to reinvent yesterday’s salmon. Just flake it over warm rice and top with your favorite garnishes and spicy mayo for a near-instant meal.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be! Simply opt for tamari instead of regular soy sauce and double-check that your furikake seasoning doesn’t contain wheat. With these swaps, you can enjoy a gluten-free Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl without missing a beat.

What rice is best for a Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl?

Sushi rice is classic for authenticity, but jasmine and even brown rice work well. As long as your rice is freshly cooked and steamy, you’re set for building the perfect bowl.

How spicy is the spicy mayo?

You’re in charge! Start with a small amount of chili garlic sauce and add more if you love heat. The creamy mayo base keeps things balanced, so even spice skeptics can enjoy this sauce.

Can I add extra veggies or toppings?

Definitely—make this Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl your own! Try thin-sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, or swap in pickled veggies for more tang and crunch. The bowl is endlessly customizable.

Final Thoughts

If sushi night at home sounds daunting, the Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl is here to save the day. It’s easy, fresh, and endlessly adaptable, making it perfect for busy evenings or fun gatherings. Give it a try—you’ll love how all the sushi flavors come together in one comforting, spoonable meal!