Jump to Recipe Print RecipeDiving into this Crispy Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake is like taking a delightful culinary trip without leaving your kitchen. No need for a sushi rolling mat or expert techniques here! This baked version brings the classic flavors of sushi to your table in a cozy, easy-to-prepare casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings. With its exquisite balance of crunchy tempura shrimp and creamy sushi rice, it’s truly a dish that loves to please everyone—especially when you can customize it to fit different tastes or dietary needs. Want a vegetarian twist? Simply swap the shrimp for your favorite tempura vegetables! Ready to turn your home into a sushi haven? Let’s start baking! Why is This Sushi Bake a Must-Try? Simplicity at its Core: This dish omits complicated rolling techniques, making it accessible for all skill levels. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: A delightful mix of crispy shrimp and creamy rice ensures that everyone at the table will be coming back for seconds. Customizable Options: You can easily adapt it for various dietary preferences—try it vegetarian with tempura veggies or load it with extra sauces for a flavor explosion! Quick Preparation: If you’re short on time, this recipe can be ready in under an hour, perfect for those impromptu family gatherings. Comforting and Satisfying: This bake combines the best of classic sushi with the warmth of a comforting casserole, making it a cozy weeknight option that rivals any takeout. For more delicious seafood options, don’t miss my recipe for Honey Garlic Shrimp or the delightful Shrimp Corn Bisque. Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake Ingredients For the Sushi Base • Sushi Rice – This forms the essential base; opt for high-quality sushi rice for the best texture. • Shrimp – Fresh or frozen, choose good quality shrimp for the crispiest bite. For the Tempura Coating • Tempura Batter – A crunchy, golden coating enhances the shrimp; consider gluten-free flour for a dietary option. For the Sauces • Creamy Sauces (e.g., mayo or spicy mayo) – These add richness and flavor; substitute with avocado for a lighter touch. Optional Add-Ons • Crab Meat – For an enhanced seafood flavor; feel free to skip if you prefer a simpler version. • Wasabi – A zesty addition for those who enjoy a bit of kick; adjust to taste. This Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake is not only easy to prepare but also customizable, making it an ideal dish for families looking to enjoy delicious homemade food! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake Step 1: Prepare Sushi Rice Begin by rinsing 1 cup of sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice in a rice cooker or a pot with 1.25 cups of water, bringing it to a boil, then reducing to low heat for 18-20 minutes. Once the rice is tender, allow it to cool to room temperature while you prepare the rest, creating the perfect base for your Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake. Step 2: Make Tempura Shrimp Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). While the oil heats, prepare your tempura batter according to package instructions or make your own. Dip shrimp into the batter, then carefully place them in the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are golden and crispy, indicating they’re perfectly cooked. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Step 3: Assemble Sushi Bake In a baking dish, evenly spread the cooled sushi rice to form the base. Gently layer the fried tempura shrimp over the rice, ensuring they are distributed evenly. Drizzle creamy sauces like mayo or spicy mayo over the shrimp, along with any optional add-ons such as crab meat or a sprinkle of wasabi. This layering creates a flavor-packed Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake that everyone will love. Step 4: Bake Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through and the edges of the rice are slightly crispy. For an extra touch of crunch, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. The final dish should have a delightful golden crust, ready to enjoy! What to Serve with Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake Imagine enjoying a cozy evening at home, savoring the delightful layers of your Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake alongside some perfectly chosen sides that balance textures and enhance flavors. Fresh Cucumber Salad: A light, crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, rich flavors of the bake, keeping the meal vibrant and bright. Pairing this with a tangy dressing will elevate your dining experience. Miso Soup: This comforting soup adds warmth and umami, complementing the sushi bake beautifully while allowing for a seamless transition between dishes. The saltiness of the miso enhances the flavors of the shrimp. Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offers a delightful pop of texture and protein. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for nibbling on while waiting for the sushi bake to cool or as a fun finger food. Seaweed Salad: This salad brings a unique texture and savory flavor that pairs marvelously with the shrimp tempura’s crunch, adding an ocean-like freshness that ties in with the sushi theme. Sticky Rice with Mango: For dessert, serve this sweet and slightly chewy dish, providing a satisfying end to your meal. The contrast of textures creates a delightful finish while balancing the savory aspects of your dinner. Chilled Sake or Green Tea: These beverages complement the dish’s flavor profile, enhancing the overall experience with their smoothness and relaxed vibes. Choose sake for a traditional touch or green tea for a refreshing cleanse. Make Ahead Options These Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake preparations are perfect for busy meal planners looking to save time! You can prepare the sushi rice and tempura shrimp up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them separately in airtight containers. This ensures that the shrimp maintain their crunch and the rice its texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your bake, layer the sushi rice and tempura shrimp in your baking dish, drizzle your sauces, and include any optional add-ons before baking. Just pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, and you’ll have a delicious, homemade feast with minimal effort. Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake Variations Feel free to explore these exciting twists to make your shrimp tempura sushi bake a true masterpiece that caters to everyone’s tastes! Vegetarian Option: Swap shrimp with tempura vegetables like zucchini or sweet potatoes for a delightful plant-based version. This variation adds a crispy crunch with a variety of vibrant flavors. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the tempura batter if you or your guests follow a gluten-free diet. This simple switch allows everyone to enjoy the crunchy goodness while keeping it inclusive. Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha over the top before baking for a zesty twist. The heat balances beautifully with the creamy sauce and crispy shrimp. Sauce Variety: Instead of traditional mayo, try a flavorful teriyaki or spicy hoisin sauce. Each option introduces a unique flavor profile, inviting your taste buds on a new adventure. Fresh Herb Boost: Add a handful of fresh cilantro or green onions on top just before serving. This adds a refreshing note that brightens the overall dish. Textural Twist: Consider sprinkling panko breadcrumbs on top before baking for an extra-crisp texture on the surface. Broiling for the last few minutes will ensure it’s perfectly golden. Seafood Medley: Mix in cooked crab or lobster with the shrimp to create an elegant seafood extravaganza that’s sure to impress guests. The added seafood makes each bite irresistibly rich. Enjoy crafting your ideal Spicy Shrimp Sushi or pairing this bake with a luscious Loaded Baked Potato salad for a complete feast that will ensure everyone leaves the table happy! Expert Tips for Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil reaches 350°F (175°C) before frying. If it’s not hot enough, your tempura shrimp may turn out soggy instead of crispy. Cool the Rice: Allow the sushi rice to cool completely before layering it in your dish. This helps it stick together better and enhances the overall flavor. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying shrimp, avoid putting too many in at once. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, leading to inconsistent cooking. Layer Evenly: As you assemble your Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake, make sure to distribute the ingredients evenly. This allows each bite to be bursting with flavor. Broil for Extra Crunch: For a delightful finish, broil the bake for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy top, keeping a watchful eye to prevent burning. Customize Your Bake: Feel free to swap out shrimp for tempura vegetables like zucchini or sweet potatoes for a delicious vegetarian variation! How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and makes for a great quick meal option. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled dish without sauces for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving. Reheating: To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This ensures your Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake stays crispy and delicious! Assembling Ahead: Prepare the sushi rice and tempura shrimp a day ahead. Keep them refrigerated separately, then assemble and bake when you’re ready for a fresh meal! Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake Recipe FAQs What type of sushi rice should I use? For the best texture, I recommend using high-quality sushi rice, which is sticky and holds together well. If sushi rice isn’t available, short-grain rice can be a suitable substitute, but aim for a similar sticky quality. How long can I store leftovers? You can store your Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh! Just remember to reheat it in the oven for the best texture rather than the microwave, which may result in sogginess. Can I freeze the sushi bake? Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake without the sauces for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. How can I make this recipe vegetarian? If you want a vegetarian twist, simply swap out the shrimp for tempura vegetables like zucchini, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers. Just follow the same instructions for battering and frying your veggies to keep that delightful crunch! What should I do if my tempura shrimp are soggy? To prevent soggy tempura, ensure that your oil is at the right temperature (350°F or 175°C) before adding the shrimp. Fry them in small batches to maintain the heat. Additionally, drain them on paper towels after frying to remove any excess oil that can lead to a soggy texture. Is this dish safe for my pets? While shrimp itself is generally safe for pets, the tempura batter can contain ingredients that may not be suitable for them, such as spices or high salt content. It’s best to keep this delicious dish for human enjoyment and stick with plain cooked shrimp if you want to share a treat with your furry friends! Crispy Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake for Family Fun Nights Enjoy the delightful flavors of Shrimp Tempura Sushi Bake, a easy-to-prepare casserole perfect for family dinners! Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: CasserolesCuisine: JapaneseCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sushi Base1 cup sushi rice opt for high-quality for the best texture1 pound shrimp fresh or frozen, good quality for the crispiest biteFor the Tempura Coating1 cup tempura batter consider gluten-free flour for a dietary optionFor the Sauces1 cup creamy sauces (e.g., mayo or spicy mayo) substitute with avocado for a lighter touchOptional Add-Ons1/2 cup crab meat optional for enhanced seafood flavorto taste wasabi optional, zesty addition for those who enjoy kick Equipment rice cookerDeep SkilletBaking Dish Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Shrimp Tempura Sushi BakeRinse the sushi rice under cold water until clear. Cook in a rice cooker with 1.25 cups of water for 18-20 minutes and cool to room temperature.Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Prepare tempura batter, dip shrimp in batter, and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.In a baking dish, spread cooled sushi rice, layer fried shrimp on top, and drizzle with creamy sauces and any optional add-ons.Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crunch. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg NotesCustomize your bake by swapping shrimp for tempura vegetables for a vegetarian option. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
