Baked Salmon Sushi Cups are the perfect mash-up of cozy comfort food and sushi night vibes—all in a muffin tin. If you’ve been scrolling TikTok lately (don’t worry, we’re all guilty), you’ve probably seen this Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe) popping up everywhere. And let me tell you… it lives up to the hype.
Whether you’re trying to impress dinner guests without the stress, or you’re just looking for a fun, hands-on dinner your kids won’t turn their noses up at—this one’s a winner. These crispy, creamy, umami-packed bites come together easily and make weeknight dinners feel extra without being extra work.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Baked Salmon Sushi Cups
If your go-to sushi order always includes a spicy salmon roll, you’re going to flip for these little guys.
- No sushi mat required. If the thought of rolling sushi makes you break into a cold sweat—relax. We’re pressing and baking here.
- Perfectly portioned. Individual cups mean no slicing, no mess, no fighting over who got the bigger piece (looking at you, Susan).
- Crowd-pleaser status. Whether it’s girls’ night, family dinner, or your picky-eater teenager—these are a hit across the board.
- Viral for a reason. This Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe) isn’t just internet famous—it’s weeknight magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a few simple ingredients, many of which you might already have hanging out in your pantry or fridge. Here’s your short-and-sweet list:
- Salmon – Fresh is best, but leftover cooked salmon works too.
- Nori Sheets or Seaweed Snacks – Cut into squares to hold the magic.
- Sushi Rice – Short-grain rice works best for that sticky texture.
- Rice Vinegar & Sugar – For seasoning your rice (this makes it taste like sushi rice!).
- Soy Sauce, Sriracha, Kewpie Mayo, Sesame Oil – For that creamy, spicy salmon mixture.
- Furikake – A Japanese seasoning blend that adds crunch and umami.
- Green Onion – For freshness and a pop of color.
- Optional Garnish – More sriracha or spicy mayo drizzle, sesame seeds, extra furikake.
Scroll down to the recipe card for exact measurements and details.
How to Make Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe)
Let’s break it down step-by-step. It’s way easier than it looks—and honestly kinda fun to make!
Step 1: Prep Your Salmon
Chop your salmon into small cubes or bite-sized pieces. Not too tiny—we want chunks that still give a satisfying bite.
Step 2: Make That Spicy Salmon Mix
In a bowl, combine:
- Soy sauce
- Sriracha
- Kewpie mayo
- Sesame oil
- Your chopped salmon
Stir it all up until the salmon is evenly coated in that creamy, spicy goodness. Warning: you will be tempted to taste-test. I won’t judge.
Step 3: Make Sushi Rice
Cook your rice according to the package. While it’s still warm, stir in:
- Rice vinegar
- Sugar
This gives it that tangy-sweet flavor sushi rice is known for. Don’t skip it—it’s the little things that make a big difference.
Step 4: Nori + Rice = Cup Magic
Cut your nori into squares (about 3×3 inches). Add a spoonful or two of rice on each piece and press lightly.
Then, transfer each one into a greased muffin or cupcake tin. Press down gently to form a little cup shape. Yes, you are now a sushi sculptor. Own it.
Step 5: Load ‘Em Up
Spoon your salmon mixture into each rice cup. Be generous—this is where all the flavor lives.
Step 6: Bake!
Pop the tray into your oven at 400°F for 15 minutes. The edges of the nori get crispy, the salmon cooks through, and the whole kitchen smells like chef’s kiss.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Drizzle with more sriracha or spicy mayo if you’re feeling bold. Sprinkle on furikake, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions.
Serve immediately while they’re warm and crispy. These don’t last long—trust me.
Tips to Make Your Baked Salmon Sushi Cups Even Better
- No Kewpie mayo? Mix regular mayo with a dash of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar—it’s not the same, but it gets close.
- Too spicy? Dial back the sriracha, or leave it out entirely and let folks add their own after baking.
- Make it ahead. You can prep the salmon mixture and rice earlier in the day, then assemble and bake when you’re ready.
- Leftover salmon? This recipe is perfect for repurposing leftover grilled or baked salmon.
A Little Kitchen Story…
The first time I made these was during a “Mom needs something fun to cook” moment on a Tuesday night. My kids were skeptical (“Sushi in a cupcake pan?!”), but by the second bite, they were hooked. It’s now our go-to movie night snack, and I honestly feel like a genius every time I make them. So, from my kitchen to yours—this one’s a keeper.

FAQs About Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe)
Can I substitute canned salmon?
Yes! While fresh salmon gives the best texture, canned works in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
These are best eaten fresh, but if you have extras, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for a bit of crunch.
Can I make these with tuna instead?
Absolutely. Swap the salmon for sushi-grade tuna or even canned tuna if that’s what you have.
What if I don’t have furikake?
No worries! Try a sprinkle of sesame seeds and crushed seaweed snacks instead. You’ll still get that toasty flavor.
Your New Favorite Weeknight Recipe
Baked Salmon Sushi Cups are more than just a viral trend—they’re a flavor-packed, family-friendly meal that’s actually fun to make. Whether you’re riding the TikTok wave or just looking to switch up your dinner routine, this Baked Salmon Sushi Cups (Viral Recipe) is about to become your weeknight MVP.
And if your family starts requesting it weekly? Welcome to the club, friend.
Hungry for more chicken and salmon goodness?
Don’t forget to check out other recipes here on Chicken Magic Recipes. Whether it’s crispy chicken thighs or spicy Asian-inspired bowls, I’ve got something delicious waiting for you.
More Flavor-Packed Recipes to Try Next
If these Baked Salmon Sushi Cups left you craving more easy, fun, and delicious dinner ideas, you’re in luck. Here are a few reader-favorite recipes from Chicken Magic that pair beautifully with the flavors or ease of this viral hit:
- Love a cozy bowl moment? Don’t miss the Creamy Cajun Chicken Soup — it’s spicy, comforting, and ridiculously easy to make on a chilly night.
- Craving more global-inspired dinners? Try the Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken for a sweet and savory Indian twist with a fall vibe.
- Want something hearty yet hands-off? This Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights when you still want a home-cooked meal.
- If you loved the sushi cup format, you’ll be obsessed with our Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks — a layered twist on sushi that’s just as TikTok-worthy and even easier to prep ahead!
Add these to your weeknight rotation and keep the flavor party going. Happy cooking!

Baked Salmon Sushi Cups: 9 Deliciously Easy Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 sushi cups 1x
Description
These Baked Salmon Sushi Cups are a viral TikTok sensation! Packed with spicy salmon, sticky sushi rice, and crispy seaweed, they’re easy to make, fun to eat, and perfect for family dinners, parties, or sushi night at home.
Ingredients
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1/2 lb fresh salmon, diced into small cubes
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1 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp Kewpie mayo
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1 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
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1 tsp sesame oil
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1 cup cooked sushi rice
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tsp sugar
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6 nori sheets or seaweed snacks, cut into squares
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1 tbsp furikake (for garnish)
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2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
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Optional: extra spicy mayo or sriracha for drizzling
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Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin and set aside.
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Prepare the salmon mixture: In a bowl, combine diced salmon, soy sauce, sriracha, Kewpie mayo, and sesame oil. Mix well and refrigerate while prepping the rice.
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Make sushi rice: Add rice vinegar and sugar to your warm cooked rice. Stir until evenly combined.
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Assemble the sushi cups: Place a square of nori into each muffin tin cup. Add 1-2 spoonfuls of rice and gently press to form the base.
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Add salmon: Top each cup with a spoonful of the salmon mixture.
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Bake for 15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the nori edges are crisp.
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Garnish and serve: Drizzle with more spicy mayo, sprinkle with furikake, green onions, and sesame seeds. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
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No Kewpie mayo? Mix regular mayo with a pinch of sugar and rice vinegar.
Leftover salmon works great—just flake it and mix with the sauce.
Customize with chopped avocado, cucumber, or even a spicy tuna twist!
Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for maximum crispiness
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sushi cup
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 260 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg