Introduction
Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks bring all the bold flavors of sushi to your table in a fun, easy-to-make format—no rolling required! These beautifully layered stacks combine seasoned sushi rice, creamy avocado, and succulent spicy shrimp, all topped with a drizzle of sriracha mayo, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and fresh scallions. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and umami, making this dish a standout for sushi lovers and foodies alike.
The first time I made these, I was amazed at how effortlessly they came together and how impressive they looked on the plate. They’re perfect for a dinner party, a date night in, or even just a solo sushi craving when you don’t feel like ordering takeout. Plus, they’re incredibly customizable—you can swap the shrimp for spicy tuna, add a crunchy layer of cucumber, or even top them with crispy tempura flakes for extra texture.
Best of all, Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are as easy to eat as they are to make. No chopsticks required—just grab a fork and dive into this fresh, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying dish!
Perfect for:
- Quick and easy weeknight dinners
- Impressing guests at gatherings
- Sushi lovers who want a no-roll option
- Meal prepping for fresh, flavorful lunches
- Those who enjoy a spicy kick in their dishes
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks
Here’s why Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks will become your new favorite sushi-inspired dish:
- No Rolling Required: Enjoy all the delicious flavors of sushi without the need for rolling or special tools.
- Fresh and Flavorful: Every bite is packed with fresh seafood, creamy avocado, and spicy sriracha mayo.
- Quick and Easy: These sushi stacks come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy schedules.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap out the shrimp for another protein, or add different toppings to suit your taste.
- Healthy and Satisfying: Made with wholesome ingredients like rice, shrimp, and avocado, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4 stacks
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 12g
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks:
- For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- For the Sushi Rice:
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- For the Spicy Mayo:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- For the Avocado Layer:
- 1 large avocado, mashed
- ½ teaspoon lime juice
- Pinch of salt
- For Garnishing:
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (black or white)
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon furikake (optional, for extra umami)
- Extra sriracha or soy sauce for serving
Ingredient Highlights
- Shrimp: Provides a light, protein-rich base for the sushi stacks. Can be replaced with crab, salmon, or tofu for variations.
- Sushi Rice: The sticky, seasoned rice holds everything together and gives that authentic sushi flavor.
- Spicy Mayo: A creamy, spicy sauce that ties all the flavors together, balancing heat and richness.
- Avocado: Adds a smooth, buttery texture and a mild, cooling contrast to the spice.
- Sesame Seeds & Furikake: Enhance flavor and add a slight crunch to each bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks:
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cook the Rice: If not already cooked, prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions. While still warm, mix in the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Set aside to cool.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a pan over medium heat, add the sesame oil. Toss the shrimp with soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, and sriracha, then sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Spicy Mayo: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice. Adjust spice level as needed.
- Mash the Avocado: In another bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Assemble the Sushi Stacks:
- Prepare a Mold: Use a greased measuring cup or a food ring mold to assemble the layers. A 1-cup measuring cup works well.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Start with a layer of sushi rice, pressing it down firmly.
- Add a layer of mashed avocado, spreading it evenly.
- Place the cooked shrimp on top, pressing lightly.
- Invert the Stack: Carefully turn the cup or mold upside down onto a plate and gently lift to reveal the layered stack.
- Drizzle & Garnish: Drizzle the spicy mayo over the top, then sprinkle with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and furikake if using.

How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks
Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are best enjoyed fresh and can be served in multiple ways:
- Classic Stack on a Plate – Serve the sushi stack neatly layered on a plate with a drizzle of spicy mayo and eel sauce, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
- On a Bed of Greens – Place the sushi stack on a bed of mixed greens or seaweed salad for a fresh, crunchy contrast.
- With Crispy Wonton Chips – Serve the sushi stacks alongside crispy wonton chips or seaweed crisps for a fun, dip-style experience.
- Mini Sushi Bites – Instead of one large stack, make smaller bite-sized stacks using a mini ring mold, perfect for appetizers.
- In a Martini Glass – Layer the ingredients in a martini glass for an elegant, party-friendly presentation.
- Topped with Avocado Rose – Garnish with a delicate avocado rose and microgreens for a gourmet touch.
- Inside a Sushi Hand Roll – Instead of stacking, roll the ingredients in a sheet of nori for an easy-to-eat sushi burrito or hand roll.
- Served with a Side of Miso Soup – Pair with a warm cup of miso soup and pickled ginger for a complete sushi-inspired meal.
- Over a Bed of Sushi Rice – Transform the stack into a sushi bowl by deconstructing it over a bed of seasoned sushi rice.
- Wrapped in Cucumber Ribbons – Instead of stacking, wrap the ingredients in thin cucumber ribbons for a refreshing, low-carb version.
Additional Tips for Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks
Here are some tips to ensure your Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks come out perfectly every time:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp, ripe avocados, and high-quality sushi rice will make all the difference.
- Press Firmly: When assembling, press each layer down gently but firmly so the stack holds its shape.
- Grease the Mold: Lightly grease your measuring cup or mold with nonstick spray to help the stack release easily.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the sriracha in the shrimp and mayo.
- Try Different Proteins: Swap shrimp for spicy tuna, crab, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Make it Low-Carb: Substitute sushi rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Assemble the ingredients ahead of time and stack just before serving.
Recipe Variations for Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks
Here are 10 variations you can try for Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks:
- Spicy Tuna Stacks: Swap shrimp for diced raw tuna mixed with spicy mayo.
- California Roll Stacks: Use imitation crab and cucumber instead of shrimp.
- Salmon Avocado Stacks: Use cooked or raw salmon for a different sushi flavor.
- Mango Shrimp Stacks: Add diced mango for a sweet contrast to the spice.
- Crab & Cucumber Stacks: Mix crab with a bit of mayo and add thinly sliced cucumber.
- Eel Sushi Stacks: Use cooked eel and drizzle with eel sauce.
- Teriyaki Chicken Stacks: Substitute shrimp with diced teriyaki chicken for a non-seafood version.
- Vegan Sushi Stacks: Use marinated tofu instead of shrimp and vegan mayo.
- Spicy Scallop Stacks: Replace shrimp with seared scallops and a drizzle of spicy mayo.
- Poke-Style Stacks: Use marinated poke-style tuna or salmon with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Freezing and Storage for Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. These are best eaten fresh.
- Not Recommended for Freezing: Due to the fresh avocado and shrimp, freezing is not ideal.
Special Equipment for Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks
- Measuring Cup or Food Ring Mold: For easy stack formation.
- Sharp Knife: To slice avocado and garnish neatly.
- Mixing Bowls: For preparing rice, shrimp, and sauces.
- Nonstick Pan: To cook the shrimp evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions for Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to assemble just before serving to keep the avocado fresh. - Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes! Simply toss it in the seasonings and heat briefly. - Can I make this without rice?
Yes, try using cauliflower rice or a salad base. - How can I make it spicier?
Add extra sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes. - Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks
Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are a fun, easy, and visually stunning way to enjoy sushi flavors without the hassle of rolling. These deconstructed sushi stacks feature layers of seasoned sushi rice, creamy avocado, spicy shrimp, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo, all topped with sesame seeds and scallions. They deliver the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and umami, making them an ideal dish for sushi lovers looking for a simple yet elegant meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
-
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
-
For the Sushi Rice:
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
-
For the Spicy Mayo:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
-
For the Avocado Layer:
- 1 large avocado, mashed
- ½ teaspoon lime juice
- Pinch of salt
-
For Garnishing:
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (black or white)
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon furikake (optional, for extra umami)
- Extra sriracha or soy sauce for serving
Ingredient Highlights
- Shrimp: Provides a light, protein-rich base for the sushi stacks. Can be replaced with crab, salmon, or tofu for variations.
- Sushi Rice: The sticky, seasoned rice holds everything together and gives that authentic sushi flavor.
- Spicy Mayo: A creamy, spicy sauce that ties all the flavors together, balancing heat and richness.
- Avocado: Adds a smooth, buttery texture and a mild, cooling contrast to the spice.
- Sesame Seeds & Furikake: Enhance flavor and add a slight crunch to each bite.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cook the Rice: If not already cooked, prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions. While still warm, mix in the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Set aside to cool.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a pan over medium heat, add the sesame oil. Toss the shrimp with soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, and sriracha, then sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Spicy Mayo: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice. Adjust spice level as needed.
- Mash the Avocado: In another bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Assemble the Sushi Stacks:
- Prepare a Mold: Use a greased measuring cup or a food ring mold to assemble the layers. A 1-cup measuring cup works well.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Start with a layer of sushi rice, pressing it down firmly.
- Add a layer of mashed avocado, spreading it evenly.
- Place the cooked shrimp on top, pressing lightly.
- Invert the Stack: Carefully turn the cup or mold upside down onto a plate and gently lift to reveal the layered stack.
- Drizzle & Garnish: Drizzle the spicy mayo over the top, then sprinkle with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and furikake if using.
Nutrition
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 20g
Conclusion
Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are a flavorful and effortless way to enjoy the taste of sushi right at home. With their vibrant layers and customizable ingredients, these stacks are as stunning as they are delicious. Each bite delivers the perfect harmony of heat, creaminess, and umami, making them an irresistible treat for any sushi lover.
Whether you’re preparing them for a casual meal or a special occasion, these sushi stacks are sure to impress. Top them with your favorite garnishes, drizzle on a flavorful sauce, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
I’d love to see how your Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your culinary creations. Happy cooking!