There’s something truly magical about the combination of sushi and shrimp—it’s a match made in culinary heaven. But what if you could take your favorite sushi roll and turn it into a fun, layered creation that not only tastes amazing but also looks incredibly impressive? That’s exactly what happened when I first came across the idea of Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks.
One evening, I was craving sushi, but I wanted to make it a little more unique, a little more exciting. I had the usual shrimp rolls in mind, but instead of rolling everything together, I decided to experiment with stacking. The result was this beautiful, flavorful dish: shrimp tossed in a spicy mayo dynamite sauce, layered on sushi rice, and topped with fresh avocado, crunchy cucumber, and a few unexpected garnishes. Each bite was a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, tangy, and refreshing. The combination of textures and flavors felt like a celebration of everything I love about sushi, all stacked up in one amazing dish.
What I love about Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks is how versatile they are. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, treating yourself to a sushi-inspired dish at home, or looking for something fun and interactive to make with family, these stacks always hit the spot. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make, and even though they look like something you’d order at a fancy restaurant, they’re made right in your own kitchen.
So, if you’re ready to create a sushi experience that’s both fun and delicious, let’s dive into this recipe and stack up some serious flavor with these Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks
If you’re a fan of sushi but want to try something different, Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks are the perfect twist on your favorite sushi roll! Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
- Bold Flavors in Every Bite
The combination of spicy shrimp, creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and perfectly seasoned sushi rice creates a flavor explosion in each bite. The dynamite sauce adds the perfect balance of heat and creaminess, while the fresh ingredients keep it light and refreshing. You get a perfect contrast of textures from the creamy avocado to the crispy nori and sesame seeds. - Visually Stunning
The stacked layers of ingredients look as amazing as they taste! This dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it at home, these vibrant sushi stacks are guaranteed to impress. - Fun to Make and Customize
Making sushi stacks is a fun, interactive experience. You can customize the layers to suit your preferences—add more spice, swap out the shrimp for spicy tuna, or even try a vegetarian version with grilled vegetables. It’s a dish that allows you to get creative and experiment with different flavors! - Perfect for Any Occasion
These stacks are versatile and perfect for a casual dinner, a special occasion, or even as an impressive appetizer at your next gathering. Their individual portions make them easy to serve and enjoy, while the bold flavors make them unforgettable. - Easy to Prepare
Despite looking complex, Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks are surprisingly easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and a few easy-to-follow steps, you can have a restaurant-quality sushi dish ready in no time. Whether you’re a sushi pro or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and fun to make!
With bold flavors, vibrant layers, and endless customization options, Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks are sure to become your new favorite sushi-inspired dish. Enjoy them at your next meal or share them with friends—they’re guaranteed to be a hit!
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Discover How to Make a Bold and Unbelievably Delicious Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stack!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings (about 1 stack per person) 1x
Description
Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks are a fun and delicious twist on your favorite sushi roll. Imagine all the vibrant flavors of a traditional sushi roll—spicy shrimp, creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and perfectly seasoned sushi rice—stacked together in a layered masterpiece. Tossed in a dynamite sauce made with mayonnaise, Sriracha, and sesame oil, these stacks pack a flavorful punch that’s sure to impress. Not only are they visually stunning, but they also offer a delightful mix of textures—from the crunch of cucumber and sesame seeds to the smoothness of avocado and creamy shrimp. Serve them at your next dinner party or enjoy them as a fun weeknight treat!
Ingredients
For the Sushi Rice:
2 cups Sushi Rice (Japanese short-grain rice), uncooked (400 grams)
2¼ cups Water
1 Nori Sheet (dried seaweed)
⅓ cup Rice Vinegar
2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
½ teaspoon Salt
For the Spicy Sushi Sauce:
¾ cup Mayonnaise
2 to 3 tablespoons Sriracha Sauce (adjust for desired heat)
2 teaspoons Rice Wine Vinegar
2 teaspoons Toasted Sesame Oil
½ teaspoon Granulated Sugar
For the Shrimp Stacks:
1 pound Cooked Shrimp (medium-sized)
1 English Cucumber, finely diced
2 to 3 teaspoons Chopped Fresh Scallions or Chives
1 tablespoon Sour Cream or Mayonnaise
¼ teaspoon Salt
1 Avocado
1 teaspoon Fresh Lemon Juice
¼ teaspoon Salt
1½ cups Cooked Sushi Rice (from above)
Garnish and Extras:
3 teaspoons Sesame Seeds or Furikake (Japanese rice seasoning)
2 teaspoons Tobiko Fish Roe (optional)
1 sheet Dried Seaweed, sliced into thin strips
Wasabi Sauce (to taste)
Soy Sauce (for dipping)
Pickled Ginger (to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice
Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing the sushi rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch for the ideal sticky texture.
Cook the Rice: Add the rinsed rice and 2¼ cups of water to a saucepan with 1 nori sheet. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 18 minutes without lifting the lid.
Steam the Rice: After cooking, remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 15 minutes to steam.
Season the Rice: In a separate pan, heat the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves. Pour this mixture over the hot rice and gently fold it in using a silicone spatula. If you have a fan, use it to cool the rice quickly. Cover the rice with a kitchen towel and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Spicy Sushi Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar until smooth and well-combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp and Other Ingredients
Chop the Shrimp: Reserve 5 whole shrimp for garnish. Chop the remaining shrimp into bite-sized pieces and place in a mixing bowl.
Season the Shrimp: Add half of the prepared spicy sushi sauce to the chopped shrimp and toss until evenly coated. Set aside the remaining sauce for serving.
Prepare the Cucumber and Scallions: In a separate dish, combine the diced cucumber and chopped scallions.
Prepare the Avocado: Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh. Mash the avocado with lemon juice and salt, leaving some chunks for texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Shrimp Stacks
Spray a 1-cup measuring cup or ring mold with non-stick spray. Begin by adding 3-4 tablespoons of the shrimp mixture to the bottom, pressing lightly to form the first layer.
Add 2-3 tablespoons of the cucumber mixture for the second layer, pressing it down gently.
Add 2 tablespoons of the mashed avocado for the third layer, gently pressing it down.
Fill the measuring cup with the seasoned sushi rice and press it down to compact the stack.
Carefully invert the cup onto a plate and tap it to release the stack. Repeat for the remaining stacks.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Drizzle the remaining spicy sushi sauce over the top of each stack.
Garnish with sesame seeds (or Furikake), tobiko fish roe, and strips of nori.
Top each stack with a whole shrimp for decoration.
Serve with wasabi sauce, soy sauce, and pickled ginger on the side.
Notes
Rice Substitute: If you can’t find sushi rice, you can use short-grain rice like Arborio or Calrose. Avoid long-grain rice, as it won’t hold together as well.
Customization: Feel free to swap the shrimp with spicy tuna or use grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Use Ring Mold: A ring mold will make assembly easier and ensure neat, uniform stacks.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
- Cuisine: Japanese, Sushi-Inspired
Nutrition
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 2175mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 216mg
Ingredients for Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks
For the Sushi Rice:
- 2 cups Sushi Rice (Japanese short-grain rice), uncooked (400 grams)
- 2¼ cups water
- 1 nori sheet, dried seaweed
- ⅓ cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Spicy Sushi Sauce:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 to 3 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust based on spice preference)
- 2 teaspoons rice wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
For the Shrimp Stacks:
- 1 pound cooked shrimp (medium-sized)
- 1 English cucumber, finely diced
- 2 to 3 teaspoons chopped fresh scallions or chives
- 1 tablespoon sour cream or mayonnaise
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 avocado
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups cooked sushi rice (from above)
Garnish and Extras:
- 3 teaspoons sesame seeds or Furikake (Japanese rice seasoning)
- 2 teaspoons tobiko fish roe
- 1 sheet dried seaweed, sliced into thin strips
- Wasabi sauce (to taste)
- Soy sauce (for dipping)
- Pickled ginger (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks
Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice
- Rinse the Rice: Place the sushi rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch. Drain well.
- Cook the Rice: Transfer the rice to a large saucepan. Add the 2¼ cups of water and 1 nori sheet. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 18 minutes, ensuring not to lift the lid.
- Let it Sit: Once the cooking time is done, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit for another 15 minutes (without lifting the lid) to let the rice steam.
- Season the Rice: While the rice is still hot, discard the nori sheet and transfer the rice to a shallow bowl. In a separate saucepan, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Bring it to a boil, whisking until dissolved. Pour the vinegar mixture over the rice and gently fold it with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula. If possible, fan the rice to help it cool faster.
- Cool the Rice: Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let the rice cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Make the Spicy Sushi Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar.
- Whisk the ingredients together until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Set the spicy sushi sauce aside for later use.
Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp and Other Ingredients
- Chop the Shrimp: Set aside 5 whole shrimp for garnishing. Chop the remaining shrimp into small bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Season the Shrimp: Add half of the prepared spicy sushi sauce to the chopped shrimp. Toss to coat evenly.
- Prepare the Cucumber and Scallions: In a small dish, combine the diced cucumber and chopped scallions (or chives).
- Prepare the Avocado: Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Add lemon juice and salt, then mash until the mixture is smooth but with some texture remaining.
Step 4: Assemble the Shrimp Stacks
- Layer the Shrimp: Spray a 1-cup measuring cup or a ring mold with non-stick spray. Add about 3 to 4 tablespoons of the shrimp mixture and press it down lightly.
- Layer the Cucumber: Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of the diced cucumber mixture as the next layer and press down gently.
- Layer the Avocado: Add 2 tablespoons of mashed avocado as the next layer, gently pressing down with the back of a spoon.
- Layer the Sushi Rice: Fill the measuring cup with the seasoned sushi rice, pressing it down gently to compact the layers.
- Invert the Stack: Place a plate on top of the measuring cup, then invert the cup gently. Tap the bottom of the cup to release the stack onto the plate. If needed, use a thin knife around the edges to help remove the stack.
- Repeat for Remaining Stacks: Repeat the process for the remaining shrimp stacks. You should get about 5 individual stacks with the 1-cup measuring cup.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Drizzle the remaining spicy sushi sauce over each stack. Sprinkle sesame seeds (or Furikake) on top, followed by a few strips of nori and tobiko fish roe. Place a whole shrimp on top for garnish.
- Serve: Serve the stacks with a side of wasabi sauce, soy sauce for dipping, and pickled ginger.

Enjoy your Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks with all the bold flavors of a sushi roll, now in a fun, layered form!
The Perfect Garnishes – Add a Touch of Flavor to Your Shrimp Stacks
Tobiko Fish Roe and Seaweed Strips for Garnish
The garnish is what makes your Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks look even more elegant and professional. Add a little tobiko fish roe (fish eggs) for that crunchy texture and pop of color. Thinly sliced nori (dried seaweed) adds a savory, umami flavor that complements the shrimp and sushi rice beautifully.
Serving Suggestions – Pairing with Wasabi and Soy Sauce
Serve your Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks with a small dish of soy sauce for dipping and wasabi for an extra zing. A bit of pickled ginger on the side is perfect for cleansing your palate between bites. You’ll have all the flavors of sushi with the added bonus of these fun, layered stacks.
Substitutions and Tips for Success in Your Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks
Can I Use a Different Type of Rice for My Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks?
While sushi rice is the ideal choice for these Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks, you can substitute it with other types of short-grain rice, such as Arborio or Calrose rice. These varieties have the necessary sticky texture to help the stacks hold together. However, long-grain rice should be avoided, as it won’t give you the same sticky consistency needed for the dish. If you can’t find sushi rice, consider using another short-grain rice that can maintain structure when stacked.
What If I Don’t Have a Ring Mold for Assembling the Stacks?
If you don’t have a ring mold or a measuring cup, don’t worry—you can still make beautiful Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks. The easiest substitute is a 1-cup measuring cup, which will allow you to assemble the layers just as neatly. Press down each layer firmly, and when you’re ready to invert the stack, just tap the measuring cup gently to release it. If you’re having trouble removing the stack, try running a thin knife around the inside edge of the cup to help it come out.
If you have access to a ring mold, I highly recommend using it. It makes the layering process easier, and it allows for cleaner, more professional-looking stacks. Plus, you won’t need to invert the mold, as the stack will simply pop out once you lift it.
Adding a Personal Twist to Your Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks
The beauty of Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks is that they are customizable. While the base of shrimp, rice, avocado, and cucumber is perfect, you can always add your own flair to the recipe. Here are a few ideas to try:
- Spicy Tuna: Replace the shrimp with spicy tuna for a different seafood option.
- Vegetarian Option: Use grilled or roasted vegetables in place of shrimp for a veggie version of your sushi stack.
- Pickled Veggies: Add some tangy pickled carrots or radishes for an extra burst of flavor and crunch.
Get creative with your toppings as well! You can add sriracha mayo, crispy onions, or even fresh herbs like cilantro to give your stack a personal twist.
How to Serve Your Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks
Perfect for Dinner Parties and Special Occasions
These Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks are a fantastic choice for any gathering. They look sophisticated on the plate and provide a fun, interactive element to your meal. They’re easy to portion out, making them perfect for a dinner party or a casual sushi night with friends and family. Set up a sushi station with all the ingredients and let guests assemble their own stacks for a truly personalized experience
An Interactive and Fun Meal for Family or Date Night
If you’re looking for a unique and fun meal, try making Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks as part of a family dinner or for a date night. Everyone can get involved in the process—whether it’s making the sushi rice, mixing the spicy sauce, or assembling their own stacks. It’s a great way to bond over a shared love of food and enjoy a delicious meal together.
Pairing Suggestions for Your Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks
To enhance the flavor of your Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks, consider pairing them with some delicious sides or drinks:
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is the perfect complement to these cool, creamy stacks.
- Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is a great appetizer to serve alongside your sushi stacks.
- Green Tea: A chilled glass of green tea works wonderfully with sushi, helping to cleanse the palate between bites.

Health Benefits of Shrimp and Sushi Ingredients
Shrimp as a Lean Protein Source in Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks
One of the best things about Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks is how healthy they are. Shrimp is a lean protein that’s low in fat and high in essential nutrients. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health, and is also a good source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, iron, and selenium. The shrimp in this dish not only adds a delicious flavor but also provides a healthy boost to your diet.
The Nutritional Benefits of Avocado and Cucumber
Another healthy aspect of your Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks is the inclusion of avocado and cucumber. Avocado is packed with healthy fats, which help promote heart health and keep you feeling satisfied. It also provides a range of vitamins, including vitamin E and potassium. Cucumber, on the other hand, is hydrating and full of fiber and vitamin K, making it a perfect ingredient for adding freshness and crunch to the stacks.
Storing Leftover Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftover Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Store the components separately—shrimp, sushi rice, and avocado can each be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The rice should be used within one day for the best texture, while the shrimp and avocado should be used within two days.
Reassembling Leftover Stacks
If you have leftovers but want to enjoy the dish again, simply reassemble the ingredients into fresh stacks and garnish with a little extra spicy sushi sauce, sesame seeds, and fish roe for a new look. This is a great way to enjoy a sushi-inspired meal again without losing the flavors or textures you love.

FAQ – Common Questions About Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks
Is the shrimp in a spicy shrimp roll cooked?
Yes, the shrimp in a spicy shrimp roll is typically cooked. For this recipe, we use cooked shrimp to ensure that it is both flavorful and safe to eat. You can use shrimp that’s already been cooked or boil your own.
Is the shrimp in sushi raw or cooked?
Shrimp in sushi can be either raw or cooked, depending on the style of sushi. In this recipe, the shrimp is cooked for convenience and safety, but feel free to use raw shrimp if that’s your preference.
What is the difference between shrimp sushi and shrimp sashimi?
Shrimp sushi is typically served with a small mound of vinegared rice, sometimes topped with a sauce or garnish. Shrimp sashimi, on the other hand, is simply thinly sliced raw shrimp served without rice or additional seasonings.
How to get shrimp ready for sushi?
To prepare shrimp for sushi, it needs to be cooked (or peeled and deveined if using raw shrimp). Once prepared, it can be sliced into thin pieces or chopped into chunks for stacking in your Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks.
Conclusion:
Making Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks is a fun and rewarding way to enjoy sushi at home. With layers of perfectly seasoned rice, spicy shrimp, creamy avocado, and crunchy cucumber, you can create a delicious and visually stunning dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a fun family meal, or just craving something unique, these stacks will hit the spot every time.
Now that you’ve learned how to make this sushi-inspired masterpiece, it’s time to stack up some flavor and impress your friends and family with these Spicy Sushi Shrimp Stacks!
If you’re craving more shrimp-based dishes, don’t miss our 10-Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe! It’s quick, easy, and packed with delicious flavor—perfect for those times when you want a tasty meal without the wait. Check it out here!.
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