If you have a craving for vibrant, flavorful, and visually stunning dishes, these SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS are going to be your new obsession. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp tossed in a lively, spicy sauce layered perfectly with seasoned sushi rice, creamy avocado, and crisp cucumber—all coming together in delightful little towers of taste and texture. This recipe brings sushi excitement right to your table without the fuss of rolling, making it a total winner for anyone eager to impress or simply savor some fresh, bold flavors at home.

SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, from the silky richness of avocado to the vibrant punch from sriracha. These simple elements combine beautifully to create delicious layers of texture, color, and flavor that make SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS truly unforgettable.

Large shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined, these are the star protein with a juicy bite that’s perfect for stacking.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps cook the shrimp evenly while adding a subtle richness.
Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings that classic umami depth and salty balance to the shrimp marinade.
Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon for rice): Adds a touch of acidity that brightens the flavors throughout.
Sugar (2 teaspoons): Balances the heat and acidity with a hint of sweetness.
Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Infuses a nutty aroma that elevates every bite.
Sriracha sauce (2 tablespoons): Delivers that irresistible spicy kick that defines the dish.
Mayonnaise (½ cup): Smooths out the heat and adds creaminess to the spicy shrimp mix.
Sushi rice (1 cup): The perfect sticky foundation for the stacks, essential for holding everything together.
Water (1 ½ cups): For cooking the rice gently to fluffy perfection.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential seasoning to enhance the rice and other ingredients.
Avocado (1, sliced): Creamy, buttery texture that cools and complements the spice.
Cucumber (1 small, julienned): Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch that lifts the whole dish.
Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon, optional): A sprinkle for extra texture and a subtle toasty note.
Fresh cilantro or green onions (optional): Bright herbal notes that add a fresh pop of color and flavor.

How to Make SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS

Step 1: Cook the Sushi Rice

The foundation of your SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS is sushi rice, so it’s worth taking your time here. Rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear to remove excess starch. Then, cook it gently with water until fluffy and tender. When done, season it with rice vinegar and salt, and let the rice rest to soak up those tangy, balanced flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp until they turn opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Meanwhile, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and sriracha in a bowl. Once the shrimp are cooked, toss them with this spicy, tangy sauce and let the mixture simmer just enough so the shrimp soak up all that gorgeous flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Sushi Stacks

To get those beautiful, Instagram-worthy layers, use a round mold, a small glass, or even the rim of a clean can. Start by gently pressing a portion of the seasoned sushi rice into the base. Layer the spicy shrimp next, pressing down lightly so it holds together. Top it off with creamy avocado slices and crunchy cucumber juliennes, then lift off the mold to reveal your perfect sushi tower.

Step 4: Garnish and Finish

Sprinkle sesame seeds and fresh cilantro or green onions over each stack for bursts of color, texture, and aroma. These little touches don’t just make the dish look fantastic—they add layers of flavor that make each bite more exciting.

How to Serve SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS

Garnishes

Beyond the sesame seeds and fresh herbs, consider adding a drizzle of extra sriracha mayo or a squeeze of lime for a zesty twist. Pickled ginger and a few drops of soy sauce on the side can turn your serving into a full sushi experience. The garnishes are the final celebration of the flavors and textures, enhancing both the look and the mouthfeel.

Side Dishes

These stacks pair beautifully with light, fresh sides like seaweed salad, miso soup, or even crisp edamame sprinkled with sea salt. The subtle sweetness and earthiness of these dishes perfectly balance the spice and creaminess of the shrimp stacks.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS in mini glass jars or on square spoons for a stunning appetizer presentation at your next gathering. You could also create a “deconstructed” platter where guests build their own stacks, turning your meal into an interactive dining event filled with smiles and creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It’s best to keep the components separate (rice, shrimp, and veggies) if possible, to preserve texture and freshness. When stored properly, they’ll stay good for up to 2 days.

Freezing

This dish is not ideal for freezing because rice and avocado textures change significantly after thawing. For best results, prepare fresh or keep components refrigerated for a short time instead of freezing.

Reheating

Warm the shrimp gently in a skillet or microwave just until heated through—avoid overcooking. Reheat the rice separately and serve with fresh avocado and cucumber to maintain their crispness. Reassembling just before serving ensures every bite remains delightful.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture and to get the best texture.

Is there a substitute for sriracha in this recipe?

If you prefer a milder or different spice profile, chili garlic sauce or even a dash of hot sauce you love can work well as alternatives without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make the sushi rice in a rice cooker?

Yes! Using a rice cooker makes this step even simpler and ensures perfectly cooked sushi rice every time.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

If you want a lighter or dairy-free option, try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo to maintain that creamy texture with a different twist.

How spicy are the SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS?

The level of heat is moderate with a nice kick from the sriracha, but you can always adjust the amount of sauce to cater to your personal spice tolerance.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a sushi-inspired treat that’s fun to make and stunning to serve, these SPICY SHRIMP SUSHI STACKS are the answer. They bring together fresh ingredients and bold flavors in a way that’s surprisingly simple but absolutely satisfying. Dive in, get your hands messy, and enjoy every delicious stacked layer—you won’t regret it!