Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks – A Quick & Easy Sushi Hack!

Love sushi but don’t want to spend hours rolling it? These Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are the ultimate easy, no-roll sushi hack! Layers of seasoned sushi rice, creamy avocado, and spicy shrimp are pressed into a stacked, Instagram-worthy tower—delivering all the flavors of your favorite sushi roll in a fun, quick, and beginner-friendly format.

These sushi stacks are fresh, spicy, creamy, and absolutely delicious. Perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or even meal prep, they bring restaurant-quality sushi flavors to your kitchen in just 30 minutes!

Let’s get stacking! And if you love easy, flavor-packed recipes, be sure to subscribe to my email list for more delicious meal ideas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Rolling Required – Forget complicated sushi rolling—just stack and enjoy!
Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
Customizable – Swap out shrimp for crab, salmon, or tofu!
Restaurant-Worthy Presentation – Looks fancy but is super easy to make.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Make them ahead for easy lunches!

What Do Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks Taste Like?

Imagine your favorite spicy shrimp sushi roll, but in layered, fork-friendly form! Each bite is packed with:
Spicy & creamy shrimp coated in a sriracha-mayo sauce.
Smooth & buttery avocado for richness.
Perfectly seasoned sushi rice that’s slightly tangy and sticky.
Cool, crisp cucumbers for a fresh crunch.
Savory soy sauce drizzle for umami depth.

All the flavors and textures of sushi—without the hassle of rolling!

this RECIPE

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sushi Stacks:

• 1 cup sushi rice (or short-grain white rice)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 avocado, mashed
• ½ English cucumber, diced
• 8 oz cooked shrimp, chopped
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)

For the Spicy Shrimp Mixture:

• ¼ cup mayo (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to spice preference)
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• ½ tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp lime juice

Optional Toppings:

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions
• Nori (seaweed) strips
• Extra sriracha or spicy mayo drizzle
• Pickled ginger

Tools You’ll Need

• Measuring cups & spoons
• Small bowl for mixing
• Mason jar lid, ring mold, or measuring cup (for shaping the stacks)
• Sharp knife & cutting board
• Small pot (for cooking rice)

How to Make Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks

These sushi stacks are super easy to assemble. Just cook the rice, mix the shrimp, and layer everything together!

Step 1: Cook & Season the Rice

1. Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Cook according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir into the warm rice and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Spicy Shrimp Mixture

4. In a bowl, mix together mayo, sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and lime juice.
5. Add chopped shrimp and toss until fully coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Stacks

6. Use a ring mold, mason jar lid, or measuring cup to layer:
   • ⅓ cup sushi rice (press down firmly).
   • 2 tbsp mashed avocado.
   • 2 tbsp diced cucumber.
   • 2 tbsp spicy shrimp mixture (spread evenly).
7. Gently lift the mold to reveal your sushi stack!

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

8. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, green onions, and nori strips.
9. Drizzle with extra spicy mayo or soy sauce and enjoy!

Pro Tip: Lightly grease your mold with cooking spray for easy release.

What to Serve with Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks

These sushi stacks are super satisfying on their own, but you can also pair them with:

Miso Soup – A light and cozy side.
Seaweed Salad – Adds extra crunch and umami.
Edamame – A protein-packed appetizer.
Sake or Green Tea – A perfect sushi night pairing!

Helpful Tips for the Best Sushi Stacks

Want your Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks to look perfect and taste amazing? Follow these pro tips to make them restaurant-worthy every time!

1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients

• Since sushi is all about fresh flavors, use the best shrimp, avocado, and sushi rice you can find.
• Wild-caught shrimp has the best taste and texture!

2. Cook & Season the Rice Properly

• Rinse the sushi rice several times until the water runs clear—this removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming too gummy.
• Don’t skip the rice vinegar mixture! It adds that signature sushi rice flavor.

3. Press the Layers Firmly

• Use the back of a spoon or a measuring cup to firmly press down each layer.
• This helps the stack hold its shape when you remove the mold.

4. Lightly Grease Your Mold

• Spray or rub a little oil inside your ring mold, mason jar lid, or measuring cup before layering.
• This makes removing the stack much easier!

5. Chill Before Serving

• Let the sushi stacks sit in the fridge for 5-10 minutes after assembling.
• This helps firm up the layers so they don’t fall apart when you remove the mold.

6. Make It Spicier or Milder

• Love heat? Add extra sriracha or a pinch of wasabi to the shrimp mixture.
• Want it mild? Reduce the sriracha and add a little extra mayo.

7. Keep the Avocado Fresh

• Mix the mashed avocado with a squeeze of lime juice to keep it from browning.
• If making ahead, press plastic wrap directly onto the avocado to prevent air exposure.

8. Get Creative with Toppings

• Add crushed tempura flakes for crunch.
• Drizzle with spicy mayo or unagi sauce for extra flavor.
• Sprinkle with furikake (Japanese rice seasoning) for an umami boost.

9. Make It Your Own!

• Try different proteins like crab, tuna, or even tofu for a vegan version.
• Swap the rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

10. Serve Immediately for the Best Texture

These sushi stacks taste best right after assembling when all the layers are fresh!

Storage & Meal Prep

While Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep components ahead of time for a quick and easy meal. Here’s how to store them properly and keep everything fresh!

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerator: Store assembled sushi stacks in an airtight container for up to 1 day. However, the avocado may brown slightly, and the rice may dry out.
Best Storage Method: Keep each component (rice, shrimp, avocado, and cucumber) separate and assemble just before serving for the freshest texture.
Avoid Freezing: The texture of sushi rice and avocado doesn’t freeze well, so freezing is not recommended.

Best Way to Meal Prep

Cook the Rice in Advance – Make the sushi rice up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently with a damp paper towel in the microwave to restore texture.
Prep the Spicy Shrimp Mixture – Store in a separate airtight container for up to 2 days.
Dice the Cucumber & Mash Avocado – Store cucumber for up to 2 days, but mash the avocado fresh before serving to prevent browning.
Assemble Fresh – Stacks hold their shape best when assembled just before eating!

Quick Meal Prep Tip: Store everything in individual containers and stack fresh when ready to eat for a fast and sushi-quality meal!me.
Assemble fresh for the best texture!

Substitutions & Variations

These Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are super versatile! Whether you’re looking for a healthier option, a different protein, or a new twist, here are some easy ways to switch things up.

Protein Swaps

Crab Meat – Use imitation crab or real lump crab for a California roll-inspired stack.
Salmon or Tuna – Use sushi-grade raw salmon or tuna for a poke-style version.
Crispy Tofu – For a vegetarian option, pan-fry cubed tofu until crispy and toss it in spicy mayo.
Canned Tuna or Salmon – A budget-friendly, easy swap!

Rice Substitutions

Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that still pairs well with sushi flavors.
Quinoa – A protein-packed alternative to sushi rice.
Brown Rice – Adds a heartier, nutty flavor while keeping it healthy.

Spice & Flavor Adjustments

Make It Spicier – Add extra sriracha, diced jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot chili oil.
Make It Milder – Reduce the sriracha in the shrimp mixture and use less soy sauce.
Coconut Aminos – Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos for a gluten-free, lower-sodium option.

Avocado Substitutions

Mango Slices – Adds a touch of sweetness and tropical flavor.
Mashed Edamame – A unique, high-protein alternative to avocado.
Cream Cheese – For a Philadelphia roll-style stack!

Extra Crunch Options

Pickled Carrots or Radish – Adds tangy crunch.
Tempura Flakes or Panko – A crispy topping for extra texture.
Nori (Seaweed) Strips – Adds that classic sushi roll flavor.

Serving Style Variations

Make It a Sushi Bowl – Skip stacking and serve everything in a bowl for an easy poke bowl-style meal.
Lettuce Wraps – Wrap the layers in butter lettuce for a fresh, low-carb option.
Mini Sushi Bites – Use a mini muffin tin to create bite-sized stacks for appetizers.

Quick Substitutions for Common Allergies

Dairy-Free – Use vegan mayo instead of regular mayo.
Gluten-Free – Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
Nut-Free – No modifications needed—this recipe is naturally nut-free!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep everything a few hours in advance, but it’s best to assemble right before serving to keep the avocado fresh.

2. Can I use raw shrimp instead of cooked?

Absolutely! Just sauté or poach the shrimp, then toss in the spicy mayo sauce.

3. What’s the best way to shape these sushi stacks?

Use a mason jar lid, ring mold, or a greased measuring cup to layer and press the ingredients.

4. Can I use regular white rice instead of sushi rice?

Yes, but sushi rice has the stickiness and tangy flavor that makes these stacks taste authentic.

5. Are these gluten-free?

They can be! Just use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Conclusion

These Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are the perfect sushi night shortcut—quick, fresh, and full of bold flavors. Whether you’re making them for dinner, meal prep, or a fancy-looking appetizer, they’re guaranteed to impress!

If you try them, leave a review and share a photo on Pinterest! And don’t forget to subscribe for more easy, delicious recipes sent straight to your inbox.

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