SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS Recipe
If you’ve ever craved sushi but wanted something a little more laid-back and crave-worthy for a weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer, these SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS are about to become your new obsession. Imagine all the goodness of your favorite spicy shrimp roll—think tender shrimp, seasoned sushi rice, creamy avocado, and a spicy drizzle—in a playful, layered form that’s equal parts beautiful and delicious. The brilliance of this recipe is how it turns familiar ingredients into a stunning stack, perfect for sharing (or not!), without ever having to roll a single nori sheet.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in these SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS has an important role, balancing color, flavor, and that irresistible contrast of creamy, spicy, and fresh. These are classic sushi roll staples, each chosen for maximum flavor and wow factor without unnecessary fuss.
- Shrimp: The star of the show—use large shrimp for juicy, satisfying bites that soak up every bit of spicy flavor.
- Olive Oil: Ensures the shrimp cook up tender and golden—it’s a subtle touch, but it makes all the difference.
- Soy Sauce: Adds savory depth and classic umami to the shrimp.
- Rice Vinegar: Brightens both the shrimp and the rice, lifting all the flavors and giving that authentic sushi vibe.
- Sugar: Just a little hit to balance the saltiness in the sauce—don’t skip it!
- Sesame Oil: Brings irresistible toasty richness and that unmistakable aroma.
- Sriracha Sauce: For the spicy kick you know and love—adjust to taste for your perfect heat level.
- Mayonnaise: Makes the sriracha sauce velvety and clingy—Japanese mayo if you have it, but regular works too!
- Sushi Rice: Short-grain rice is essential for the right sticky, chewy texture—it holds each layer perfectly.
- Water: Just the right amount gives you rice that’s tender but not mushy.
- Rice Vinegar (for rice): A splash stirred into warm rice transforms it into real-deal sushi rice.
- Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and keeps the rice balanced.
- Avocado: Adds rich, creamy texture and that gorgeous green pop—choose ripe but firm avocados for best results.
- Cucumber: Crisp, clean, and refreshing; julienned cucumber puts a cool crunch in every bite.
- Sesame Seeds (optional): For that nutty finish and a picture-perfect sprinkle.
- Fresh Cilantro or Green Onions (optional): Delivers a burst of color and a fresh, herbal finish that lifts the whole dish.
How to Make SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS
Step 1: Make Perfect Sushi Rice
This foundation step is what makes every bite of your SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS tender and flavorful. Start by rinsing your sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear—this removes extra starch for a fluffier texture. Combine the rice with water in a medium pot, bring to a boil, then cover, reduce the heat, and simmer gently for about 15 minutes. Once cooked, stir in rice vinegar and salt while it’s warm, then let it rest covered for 10 minutes. The subtle tang of the vinegar really brings the sushi experience home.
Step 2: Cook and Flavor the Shrimp
The shrimp is where the magic happens. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high, then add your shrimp in a single layer. Let them turn pink and opaque—about 2 to 3 minutes per side is usually perfect. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and sriracha. Pour this over the cooked shrimp, tossing to coat, then give it one more minute on the heat so every shrimp is glossy, spicy, and ridiculously flavorful.
Step 3: Layer and Build Your Stacks
Here’s where SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS really come to life! Take a clean, empty can or a round mold and press in a layer of your warm, seasoned rice. Pack it down gently so it holds its shape. Next, spoon in the spicy shrimp mixture, pressing down a bit to help the stack stay together. Finish with a layer of avocado slices and a tumble of julienned cucumber, adding vibrant color and crunch. Carefully lift the mold—a perfect, mouthwatering stack awaits!
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Top each stack with a drizzle of the spicy sriracha mayonnaise for that creamy heat. Scatter sesame seeds, cilantro, or green onions over everything for a burst of color and freshness. Take a moment to admire your handiwork before digging in—these are guaranteed crowd-pleasers!
How to Serve SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS

Garnishes
No SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS are complete without a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, some fresh cilantro or sliced green onions, and maybe even a few extra squeezes of sriracha on top. Each garnish brings a little flair and a punch of flavor, making the dish extra special both for your eyes and your taste buds.
Side Dishes
These stacks shine all on their own, but they make a fabulous meal paired with simple sides like a miso soup, an Asian slaw, or a crisp seaweed salad. If you want something heartier, serve alongside lightly pickled veggies or even a bowl of edamame sprinkled with flaky salt.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is half the fun! Build your SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS in clear glasses or mason jars for a dramatic layered look at dinner parties, or go mini for bite-sized appetizers at gatherings. For family-style, assemble one giant stack on a platter and let guests scoop their own servings—a serious show-stopper!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have a few stacks left after dinner, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Ideally, keep the rice, shrimp, and avocado components separate to maintain their best textures. Assemblies are best enjoyed fresh, but well-wrapped leftovers are still pretty irresistible the next day!
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for most sushi-inspired creations, and SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS are no exception. The textures of the avocado and cucumber can become watery once thawed, and the rice tends to lose its signature bite.
Reheating
Since these stacks are best served chilled or at room temperature, they don’t really need reheating. If you want to refresh the shrimp, you can briefly warm just the shrimp in a skillet, but be careful not to overcook. Assemble the stacks with cold rice and fresh veggies for that just-made taste.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS?
Absolutely! If you’re in a hurry, pre-cooked shrimp can save a little time. Just toss them gently in the sauce and warm through for a minute or two to absorb all those flavors.
What if I don’t have sushi rice?
You can use any short-grain rice for a similar sticky, chewy texture. In a pinch, medium-grain rice works, but avoid long-grain varieties—they won’t hold together as well in your stacks.
Are these stacks gluten-free?
They absolutely can be! Just be sure to use a certified gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and double-check your sriracha and mayonnaise to avoid hidden gluten.
How spicy are these sushi stacks?
There’s a nice kick thanks to the sriracha, but you’re fully in control! Add more or less to match your heat preference, or offer extra sauce on the side for those who like things fiery.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap out the shrimp for sliced avocado, spicy tofu, or even roasted sweet potato for a plant-based version that’s every bit as satisfying.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about making (and sharing!) a meal that’s as fun and flavorful as SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS. Whether you’re dressing up dinner for someone special or simply indulging your sushi cravings at home, give this playful recipe a try—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
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SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
These Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks are a delightful twist on traditional sushi, featuring layers of seasoned sushi rice, spicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and crunchy cucumber. Perfect for a special dinner or a fun meal with friends!
Ingredients
For the Sushi Rice:
- 1 cup sushi rice
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for rice)
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 small cucumber, julienned
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Sushi Rice: Wash the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in rice vinegar and salt. Cover and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until fully cooked. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and sriracha. Drizzle over shrimp, toss to coat, and cook for 1 minute.
- Assemble the Sushi Stacks: Layer seasoned sushi rice into serving glasses or bowls. Top with shrimp mixture, avocado, cucumber. Garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro or green onions.
Notes
- You can customize these stacks with your favorite sushi ingredients like spicy mayo, tobiko, or tempura flakes!
- Make sure to let the rice cool slightly before assembling the stacks for easier handling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks, Sushi Recipe, Asian Fusion Recipe, Seafood Dish