Looking for a meal that feels like a culinary adventure, but comes together in a snap? Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks might just become your new go-to, whether you’re hosting friends or wanting to treat yourself. Bursting with flavor, color, and layers of delight, these stacks are the playful answer to restaurant sushi—no rolling mats or super skills required! Each bite combines the tingle of spicy shrimp, creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and seasoned rice, bringing everything you love about sushi into one stunning (and surprisingly easy) showcase.

Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks is in their simplicity—each ingredient plays a starring role in taste, texture, or visual appeal. Here’s what you need to make sushi magic at home, along with a tip for each item.

Cooked shrimp, chopped: Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp makes this dish protein-packed and juicy, offering satisfying bite-sized pieces in every mouthful.
Sushi rice, cooled: Sticky, slightly sweet sushi rice is the foundational layer that holds the stack together and provides that authentic sushi flavor.
Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy base for the spicy mayo, bringing richness that tames the heat.
Sriracha sauce: Packs a punch of heat and garlicky depth—adjust the quantity if you like it milder or spicier.
Sesame oil: Infuses the spicy mayo with a toasty, nutty essence that’s unforgettable.
Avocado, diced: Creamy avocado lends silkiness and classic sushi vibes, plus a gorgeous pop of green.
Cucumber, diced: Crisp and refreshing, cucumber gives each stack a fresh crunch and subtle sweetness.
Green onions, sliced: Use these for a fresh oniony bite and a burst of color on top.
Soy sauce: Adds classic umami saltiness and depth to the marinated vegetables.
Rice vinegar: Slightly tangy, it balances the flavors in the marinated cucumber layer.
Sugar: Just a touch rounds out the sharp edges and enhances the flavors throughout.
Toasted sesame seeds: These little seeds bring crunch and a nutty aroma—don’t skip them!
Nori sheets, sliced into strips (optional): Add authentic sushi taste and visual flair if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Make Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks

Step 1: Mix the Spicy Mayo

Start by whipping up that iconic spicy mayo sauce! In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha, and a splash of sesame oil. Stir enthusiastically until it’s fully blended and creamy—this is the flavor-packed glue that makes Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks so craveable.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

Grab your chopped cooked shrimp and place them in a mixing bowl. Spoon in half of your spicy mayo and gently toss everything together so that every shrimp piece gets coated. This not only flavors the shrimp but also keeps them juicy and tender as the centerpiece of every sushi stack.

Step 3: Marinate the Cucumber

In another small bowl, toss your diced cucumber with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and a pinch of sugar. Let this sit for a few minutes while you prep the other layers—the marination gives the cucumber a quick pickle, adding pop and tang to each bite.

Step 4: Assemble the Sushi Stacks

You can use a ring mold, a clean round cookie cutter, or even a small bowl lined with plastic wrap to shape your stacks. Begin with a generous spoonful of cooled sushi rice, pressing it down gently to create a base. Next, layer on the spicy shrimp, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Add a layer of creamy diced avocado, then finish with a scoop of marinated cucumber. Press everything gently to help it hold its form, then carefully lift off your mold for a perfect sushi tower.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

To make your Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks truly shine, sprinkle with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and delicate nori strips if you have them. Serve immediately so everything stays crisp and fresh, and don’t forget a little extra soy sauce or pickled ginger on the side.

How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks

Garnishes

Garnish is where you can really let your personality show! Sprinkle each stack generously with sliced green onions for a burst of color and mild zing, a shower of toasted sesame seeds for crunch, and optional nori strips for a true sushi touch. A side of pickled ginger or a tiny drizzle of soy sauce brings an extra layer of flavor and elegance.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, serve these vibrant stacks alongside a crisp miso salad, a bowl of steaming edamame, or a light seaweed salad. For a more filling meal, add miso soup or a plate of tempura vegetables—these combinations complement the fresh, spicy magic of Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

You can make individual Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks for everyone at the table, or assemble one large platter to slice and share, cake-style. Try using small glasses for a parfait-inspired look, or top each stack with a rosette of avocado for an Instagram-worthy finish. Party tip: serve stacks on mini plates for an easy, elegant appetizer platter!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks (although they tend to disappear fast!), transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. For best texture and flavor, enjoy within 24 hours—the avocado and cucumber are freshest right after assembly, but you’ll still love them chilled the next day.

Freezing

Due to the fresh avocado and cucumber, freezing isn’t recommended for these stacks. The crisp textures and vibrant flavors just aren’t the same once thawed. For longer storage, keep the rice and shrimp mixture separate in the fridge and assemble fresh stacks when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are at their best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If the rice gets a little firm in the fridge, let the stacks sit out for a few minutes before digging in. A quick splash of additional soy sauce or fresh spicy mayo revives any leftovers beautifully!

FAQs

Can I make these Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce, and check that your other ingredients (especially the sriracha) are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these stunning stacks without worry.

What if I don’t have sushi rice?

No problem—short-grain or even medium-grain rice can work in a pinch; just cook it to be a little sticky so it holds shape. For the full sushi experience, season with rice vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt before cooling.

How spicy are these stacks?

The level of heat is entirely up to you. Start with the recommended amount of sriracha, then adjust up for more fire or down for a milder taste. You can always serve extra spicy mayo on the side so everyone can customize their own bite!

Can I use other seafood or protein instead of shrimp?

Definitely! Try swapping in cooked crab, imitation crab, flaked cooked salmon, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. The spicy mayo and marinated veggie layers are endlessly versatile with your favorite toppings.

What tools do I need to make Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks?

A simple round mold, biscuit cutter, or even a small bowl will do the trick for shaping. No fancy sushi equipment is required—just a steady hand and a little creativity!

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to create these Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks in your own kitchen—they’re as fun to build as they are to eat! Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself, these stacks bring the spirit of sushi night home without any fuss. Give them a try and let the layers of spicy, crispy, and creamy goodness win you over!

Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks Recipe

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4.7 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are a delightful twist on traditional sushi, featuring layers of seasoned rice, spicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and tangy cucumber. These stacked sushi bites are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Spicy Mayo:

1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Shrimp Filling:

1 pound cooked shrimp, chopped
1/2 of the prepared spicy mayo

Additional Ingredients:

2 cups cooked sushi rice, cooled
1 avocado, diced
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
toasted sesame seeds
nori sheets, sliced into strips (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare Spicy Mayo: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside.
Make Shrimp Filling: Mix chopped shrimp with half of the spicy mayo in a bowl.
Season Cucumber: Toss diced cucumber with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar in a separate bowl.
Assemble Stacks: Layer a ring mold with sushi rice, then add spicy shrimp, avocado, and marinated cucumber. Press gently and remove the mold.
Garnish and Serve: Top with green onions, sesame seeds, and nori strips if desired. Serve with soy sauce and pickled ginger.