If you’ve been scrolling through food trends and craving something both fun and utterly delicious, then these tiktok sushi bake cups with shrimp and crab are about to become your new obsession. Imagine the creamy tang of seasoned Japanese mayonnaise mingling with spicy Sriracha, nestled atop warm sushi rice and topped with succulent shrimp and crab, all compacted into bite-sized, crispy-edged cups. This dish takes the best of sushi flavors and transforms them into a comforting, shareable experience that you can whip up in your own kitchen, perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy night in.

tiktok sushi bake cups with shrimp and crab Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you — each one plays a vital part in building the layers of flavor and texture in your tiktok sushi bake cups with shrimp and crab. From the subtly tangy rice vinegar to the crunchy toasted panko, every element comes together to create a sushi experience that’s fresh, creamy, and satisfyingly crisp.

Cooking spray: Essential to prevent sticking and help your sushi cups release smoothly from the muffin tin.

Nori sheets (dry seaweed), quartered: These form the crispy base and wrapper of your sushi cups, adding that unmistakable oceanic depth.
Warm cooked sushi rice (1 ½ cups): The foundation of your cups, providing a sticky yet fluffy texture that holds everything together.

Seasoned rice vinegar: Adds the perfect sweet-tangy balance to the rice and the mayonnaise mixture.
Japanese mayonnaise (such as Kewpie®): Creamy, slightly sweet, and richer than regular mayo, it makes the topping oh-so-delicious.

Sriracha chile sauce: Brings a gentle heat that punctuates the creamy mayo without overpowering.
Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami kick to the shrimp mixture.
Uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (1 pound): The star protein, tender, succulent, and perfect for baking.

Seasoned panko bread crumbs (⅓ cup): Provides a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts perfectly with the soft rice and shrimp.
Canola oil (1 tablespoon): Helps toast the panko to that sought-after crispy texture.
White and black toasted sesame seeds (½ tablespoon each): Sprinkle on top for a nutty aroma and visual appeal.

Thinly sliced scallions (2 tablespoons): Adds a fresh, bright bite as a finishing touch.
Finely chopped avocado (½ avocado): Creaminess and richness that elevate every spoonful.

How to Make tiktok sushi bake cups with shrimp and crab

Step 1: Prep the Muffin Tin and Rice

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and lightly spraying a muffin tin with cooking spray. Spread your warm cooked sushi rice evenly on a rimmed baking sheet and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of seasoned rice vinegar. Letting the rice cool slightly while tossing it gently separates the grains, ensuring your cups don’t turn out mushy or clumpy.

Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Mayonnaise Sauces

In a medium bowl, stir together Japanese mayonnaise, Sriracha, and the remaining tablespoon of rice vinegar until smooth and combined. Then, transfer 1/4 cup of this zesty mayo mixture to a smaller bowl and set it aside — you’ll use this later for that final drizzling touch that makes the dish so irresistible.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp in Soy-Seasoned Mayonnaise

Mix soy sauce into the remaining mayonnaise mixture and toss your peeled and deveined shrimp in this luscious sauce until they are fully coated. This step infuses the shrimp with a savory richness that perfectly complements the slight sweetness of the rice vinegar and mayonnaise base.

Step 4: Assemble the Sushi Bake Cups

Line each muffin cup with a quartered square of nori seaweed. With slightly damp hands, scoop about 2 1/2 tablespoons of the prepared rice into each seaweed-lined cup and press it down to form an even base. Then, place around three shrimp per cup on top of the rice, spreading the soy-seasoned mayonnaise mixture evenly across them.

Step 5: Add Crunch and Bake

Combine panko bread crumbs with canola oil for that toasty crunch, and sprinkle a generous pinch on top of each shrimp-topped cup. Bake the cups in your preheated oven first for 8 minutes to begin cooking the shrimp, remove to sprinkle the panko topping, then return to bake for another 6 to 7 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through and the panko turns beautifully golden brown.

Step 6: Final Garnishes and Serve

Carefully lift the sushi bake cups out of the muffin tin and arrange them on a serving platter. Drizzle the reserved spicy mayonnaise over the top, then scatter toasted white and black sesame seeds, thinly sliced scallions, and chopped avocado for a burst of freshness and color that will make these sushi bake cups look as amazing as they taste.

How to Serve tiktok sushi bake cups with shrimp and crab

Garnishes

Adding finishing touches like toasted sesame seeds and scallions really amplifies the flavor and texture of these sushi bake cups. The green onions bring a nice brightness that cuts through the creamy and spicy layers, while the black and white sesame seeds provide a subtle nuttiness and beautiful speckled appearance. Fresh chopped avocado is a must for that extra smoothness and richness on each bite.

Side Dishes

Balance your tiktok sushi bake cups with light and fresh sides like a crisp cucumber salad, pickled ginger, or even a simple seaweed salad. These sides add contrast in flavors and help cleanse the palate between bites of the rich, creamy shrimp and crab cups. For a heartier meal, steamed edamame or miso soup pairs wonderfully without overshadowing the delicacy of the sushi bake.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, serve each sushi bake cup in individual small bowls or lettuce cups for a fresh handheld option. You can also drizzle extra spicy mayo or unagi sauce artistically on the platter. For a party, arrange the cups on a bed of crushed ice with small dipping bowls of soy sauce and pickled wasabi to add an interactive and elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the crispy panko topping may soften, but reheating thoughtfully can help regain some texture.

Freezing

While these sushi bake cups are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked cups. Place them in a muffin tin wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to protect against freezer burn. Freeze for up to 1 month, then bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to life, reheat gently in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven (175 degrees Celsius) for about 10 minutes. This method warms the shrimp thoroughly while giving some crisp back to the panko topping. Avoid microwaving to keep the nori from becoming chewy or soggy.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab instead of real crab?

Yes, imitation crab works just fine and blends well with the shrimp and mayo sauce. It’s a budget-friendly alternative that still gives you that delightful seafood flavor.

Is it necessary to use Japanese mayonnaise like Kewpie®?

While not mandatory, using Japanese mayonnaise adds a creamier texture and a slight sweetness that really elevates the dish. Regular mayonnaise can be a substitute, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.

Can I make these sushi bake cups vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the shrimp and crab with marinated tofu or seasoned mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version that keeps all the creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements intact.

How spicy are these sushi bake cups?

The heat level is mild to moderate due to the Sriracha in the mayonnaise. You can easily adjust this by adding more or less Sriracha depending on your tolerance and preference.

What type of rice is best to use?

Sushi rice or any short-grain sticky rice is ideal because it holds together well in the cups and has the perfect chewy texture. Avoid long-grain rice, which won’t stick properly.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a dish that’s packed with irresistible sushi flavors but in an easy, portable format, these tiktok sushi bake cups with shrimp and crab are the answer. They’re fun to make, delightful to eat, and guaranteed to wow anyone lucky enough to try them. So grab those ingredients, invite some friends over, and turn your kitchen into a sushi bake haven!