There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, home-cooked meal, especially when it combines the rich flavors of teriyaki and the delightful textures of sushi. Picture this: you’re winding down after a long day, craving something special yet effortlessly simple. That’s when this Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake for Two steps in, transforming your kitchen into a haven of deliciousness!
With succulent salmon, creamy avocado, and a hint of spicy mayo all baked over a bed of sticky sushi rice, this dish captures the essence of dining out while keeping the comforts of homemade cooking. Whether it’s a cozy date night or a quick weeknight dinner, the versatility of this recipe is bound to make it a favorite. Plus, it’s quick—just a few ingredients and minutes of your time yield a mouthwatering dish that’s as easy to share as it is to enjoy. Get ready to indulge in a delightful fusion that will have you saying goodbye to takeout in no time!
Why is Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake for Two special?
Ease of Preparation: This dish is perfect for home cooks of any skill level, requiring minimal effort yet delivering maximum flavor.
Savory Sweetness: The teriyaki glaze infuses the salmon with a delectable sweetness balanced by savory undertones, creating a tasty explosion with every bite.
Customizable Options: Feel free to swap ingredients or adjust the spice level with your favorite sauces; it’s versatile enough for many palates!
Unique Twist: Enjoy all the traditional sushi flavors in a cozy baked format, making it a standout choice for date nights or casual dinners.
Time-Saving: With a quick prep and cook time, this meal allows you to savor quality time without the stress, ideal for spontaneous evenings at home.
Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake Ingredients
For the Salmon
• Salmon (¾ lb) – The star of the dish, providing rich flavor; coho salmon is best for this recipe.
• Teriyaki Sauce (3 tbsp) – Brings a delicious sweetness and umami, enhancing the overall taste.
• Kosher Salt (¼ tsp) – Essential for heightening the flavors of the salmon.
For the Rice Base
• Cooked Sushi Rice (3 cups) – Creates a satisfying stickiness; short-grain rice works best.
• Brown Sugar (1 tbsp) – Adds caramelization and a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• Garlic Powder (¼ tsp) – Infuses a savory depth that complements the salmon beautifully.
For the Toppings
• Avocado (1 small, cubed) – Brings creaminess and freshness to the dish; select a ripe one for the best taste.
• Spicy Mayo (3 tbsp) – Adds a creamy kick; substitute with yum yum sauce for a milder option.
• Furikake (1 tbsp) – Classic sushi topping that enhances flavor with a delicious seaweed twist.
• Crispy Fried Onion Bits (2 tbsp) – Introduces a delightful crunch and additional flavor to the finished bake.
• Scallions (2 tbsp, finely diced) – Fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
This Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake for Two is bursting with flavor and perfectly portioned for a romantic dinner or a cozy night in!
How to Make Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake for Two
-
Prep Salmon: Begin by removing the skin from the salmon fillet. Cut the salmon into 1″ cubes for even cooking and tenderness.
-
Marinate: In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed salmon with teriyaki sauce and kosher salt. Gently toss to coat, then set aside for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to mingle.
-
Build Base: Take a small baking dish and evenly spread the cooked sushi rice, gently patting it down to create a firm, flat base for your bake.
-
Assemble Bake: Carefully layer the marinated salmon over the sushi rice. Sprinkle garlic powder and brown sugar evenly across the top to enhance caramelization during broiling.
-
Broil: Preheat your broiler to high. Place the baking dish on the top rack and broil for approximately 6 minutes, or until the salmon is beautifully caramelized and cooked through.
-
Add Toppings: Once done, remove the dish from the oven. Top with freshly cubed avocado, a drizzle of spicy mayo, a sprinkle of furikake, crispy fried shallots, and diced scallions for an added burst of flavor.
-
Serve Immediately: Dish out your delectable Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake while it’s hot, and enjoy every gooey, savory bite straight from the pan!
Optional: Serve with extra spicy mayo on the side for those who love a kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake for Two are the perfect solution for busy weeknights or spontaneous date nights! You can prep the salmon by cubing it and marinating it in teriyaki sauce for up to 24 hours in advance. Additionally, the sushi rice can be cooked, cooled, and stored in the fridge up to 3 days ahead—just make sure it’s covered to prevent it from drying out. When ready to enjoy, layer the marinated salmon on the rice, broil, and finish with your toppings as directed. This ensures each bite is just as delicious as when freshly made, allowing you to savor homemade flavors without the last-minute rush!
Expert Tips for Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake
-
Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture in your Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake; frozen can alter the outcome.
-
Perfectly Cooked Rice: Ensure that your sushi rice is sticky and cooked just right; undercooked rice will not provide the desired consistency for the bake.
-
Marinating Time: Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 10 minutes but no longer than 30 minutes; over-marinating may make the fish too salty.
-
Watch the Broiler: Keep a close eye on the salmon while broiling; it can caramelize quickly, and you want it perfectly cooked, not overdone.
-
Layering Toppings: Add the crispy fried onions and scallions after broiling to maintain their crunch and freshness, enhancing the final texture of your dish.
Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake for Two Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake, enhancing flavors with your personal touch!
-
Seafood Swap: Replace salmon with cooked shrimp or crab for a deliciously different seafood twist.
-
Veggie Boost: Add edamame or diced cucumber for extra crunch and freshness, offering a delightful contrast.
-
Flavor Explosion: Mix in some sriracha into your spicy mayo for an added kick, perfect for spice lovers.
-
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or basil on top for an aromatic finish that elevates the dish.
-
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of regular teriyaki sauce to make this dish gluten-free without compromising on taste.
-
Pineapple Addition: Stir in small pineapple chunks with the salmon for a tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with teriyaki.
-
Texture Upgrade: Swap crispy fried onion bits with crushed nuts like macadamia or peanuts for a nutty crunch twist.
-
Coconut Cream: Drizzle some coconut cream instead of spicy mayo for a rich, tropical flavor that complements the fish.
Storage Tips for Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake for Two
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for 1-2 days to maintain freshness. The Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake is best enjoyed within this timeframe.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, where it can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out and retaining the dish’s rich flavors.
Serving Suggestions: Always serve hot and consider adding a fresh drizzle of spicy mayo to elevate its taste after reheating.
What to Serve with Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake for Two?
Creating the perfect dinner experience is all about the right combinations, adding delightful complements to each dish.
-
Crispy Green Salad: A mix of fresh greens and crunchy vegetables dressed lightly helps cleanse the palate and adds a refreshing contrast.
-
Miso Soup: Rich and umami-filled, a warm bowl of miso soup pairs wonderfully, enhancing the Japanese theme of your meal.
-
Edamame Pods: Lightly salted and perfectly steamed, these vibrant green beans add a fun finger food option that’s both nutritious and appealing.
-
Pickled Ginger: Sweet and tangy, pickled ginger provides a zesty kick that brightens flavors while acting as a palate cleanser between bites.
-
Sushi Rolls: For a fun twist, serve alongside some simple cucumber or avocado sushi rolls, offering a delightful texture and flavor balance.
-
Chilled Sake or Green Tea: A glass of chilled sake elevates the dining experience, while warm green tea provides a soothing finish to your meal.
-
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, serve rich chocolate mousse. Its creamy texture and sweetness offer a lovely ending to your savory dish, pleasing your sweet tooth.
Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake for Two Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right salmon for this dish?
Absolutely! For the best results in your Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake, I recommend going for coho salmon. Look for fillets that are fresh, with a vibrant pink color and a slight sheen. The flesh should be firm and spring back when pressed. Avoid any salmon with dark spots or a strong fishy smell, which are signs of poor quality.
How should I store leftovers from the sushi bake?
Very simple! To maximize freshness, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for about 1 to 2 days. Just be sure to reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, so they maintain their delightful flavors and textures.
Can I freeze the Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake?
Of course! If you want to save some for later, it’s easy to freeze. First, allow the dish to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven as mentioned earlier.
What can I do if the salmon becomes overcooked during broiling?
The more the merrier in terms of attention! If you find that your salmon has become a bit overcooked while broiling, there’s still hope. You can add a splash more of teriyaki sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice over it when serving to introduce extra moisture. Accompany it with creamy avocado and a drizzle of spicy mayo, which masks the dryness and enhances the overall dish.
Are there any dietary considerations with the ingredients?
Great question! If you have specific dietary restrictions, you can easily customize this recipe. For instance, if you’re allergic to fish, consider swapping the salmon for cooked shrimp or crab. The spicy mayo can be adjusted to meet your heat preference, or swapped for a dairy-free version. Always check the teriyaki sauce labels for gluten or soy allergies, ensuring they meet your dietary needs.
How do I choose avocados for the sushi bake?
Absolutely essential! Look for avocados that are firm yet yield slightly to gentle pressure; this indicates ripeness. Avoid any that have dark spots or are overly soft, as they tend to be past their prime. If you find unripe avocados, you can set them aside at room temperature for a few days to ripen.

Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake for Two - Date Night Delight!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by removing the skin from the salmon fillet. Cut the salmon into 1" cubes for even cooking and tenderness.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed salmon with teriyaki sauce and kosher salt. Gently toss to coat, then set aside for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to mingle.
- Take a small baking dish and evenly spread the cooked sushi rice, gently patting it down to create a firm, flat base for your bake.
- Carefully layer the marinated salmon over the sushi rice. Sprinkle garlic powder and brown sugar evenly across the top.
- Preheat your broiler to high. Place the baking dish on the top rack and broil for approximately 6 minutes, or until the salmon is beautifully caramelized and cooked through.
- Once done, remove the dish from the oven. Top with freshly cubed avocado, a drizzle of spicy mayo, a sprinkle of furikake, crispy fried onions, and diced scallions.
- Dish out your delectable Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bake while it’s hot, and enjoy every gooey, savory bite straight from the pan!