If you’re craving sushi but want something fast, customizable, and easier to assemble than rolled sushi, this Crunch Roll Sushi Bowl is going to become your new favorite.
It takes all the best parts of a traditional tempura crunch roll—crispy texture, spicy mayo, creamy avocado, and savory seafood—and layers them into a beautiful, satisfying bowl. No bamboo mat or sushi skills needed!
This bowl has become a staple in our weeknight rotation. It’s a family-friendly favorite, especially for sushi lovers who want a fuss-free dinner.
We love setting up all the toppings buffet-style and letting everyone build their own bowl. It’s crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor in every bite—and it comes together much faster than you’d expect.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crunch Roll Sushi Bowl brings together everything you love about sushi—rich textures, bold flavors, and fresh ingredients—without the hassle of rolling.
The crispy panko topping adds a satisfying crunch, while creamy avocado and spicy mayo balance everything out.
It’s versatile, family-approved, and quick to make. You can customize it with your favorite protein (shrimp, crab, tofu), and it’s easy to make gluten-free or dairy-free. Whether it’s for meal prep or a sushi night at home, this bowl satisfies every time.
What You’ll Need
For the Base:
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice (or jasmine rice)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Protein:
- 10–12 frozen breaded shrimp, cooked according to package directions
(or substitute with imitation crab, real crab, or tofu)
Toppings:
- ½ avocado, sliced
- ½ cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
- ¼ cup shredded carrots
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Optional: pickled ginger, seaweed snacks, or jalapeño slices
For the Crunch:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like avocado or canola)
For the Spicy Mayo:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
- 1–2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon lime juice
Pro Tips
- Toast the panko breadcrumbs for a restaurant-style crunch topping without deep frying.
- Use day-old rice if possible—it’s less sticky and holds up better as a base.
- Customize the protein—use shrimp, crab, tofu, or even salmon for variety.
- Don’t skip the vinegar in the rice—it gives your bowl that authentic sushi flavor.
- Add spice control—make a mild version for kids and a spicy one for adults by varying the sriracha.
Tools You’ll Need
- Rice cooker or saucepan for cooking rice
- Small skillet (for toasting panko)
- Knife and cutting board
- Bowls for assembly
- Spoon or squeeze bottle for spicy mayo
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein Swap: Use crispy tofu, grilled salmon, or canned tuna instead of shrimp.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Extra Veggies: Add edamame, radish, shredded red cabbage, or avocado slices.
- Vegan Version: Use crispy tofu and vegan mayo in the spicy sauce.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook rice and mix in vinegar seasoning ahead of time. Store covered in the fridge.
- Toast panko breadcrumbs and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Pre-chop veggies and prepare spicy mayo for quick assembly.
How to Make Crunch Roll Sushi Bowl
1. Cook the Rice
Cook 2 cups of sushi rice according to package instructions. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt. While the rice is still warm, gently fold in the vinegar mixture. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Cook the Breaded Shrimp
Cook shrimp according to package instructions (typically baked or air-fried). Let cool slightly, then slice in half if desired for easier eating in the bowl.
3. Toast the Panko
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add ½ cup panko breadcrumbs and stir constantly until golden brown and crispy (about 3–5 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Spicy Mayo
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup mayonnaise, 1–2 teaspoons sriracha (to taste), and ½ teaspoon lime juice. Set aside or place in a squeeze bottle.
5. Prepare the Veggies
Slice avocado, julienne the cucumber, and shred the carrots. Thinly slice the green onion and any other toppings.
6. Assemble the Bowls
Divide the rice between two bowls. Top with cooked shrimp, avocado, cucumber, carrots, and green onion. Drizzle with spicy mayo, sprinkle toasted panko and sesame seeds on top. Add any optional extras like seaweed snacks or pickled ginger.
7. Serve
Serve immediately while the shrimp is still warm and the panko is crunchy. Enjoy with chopsticks or a spoon!
Leftovers and Storage
This bowl is best eaten fresh, but you can store components separately for up to 2–3 days in the fridge.
- Keep the rice and shrimp in separate containers.
- Store spicy mayo in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Toasted panko will keep its crunch best if stored in a sealed jar at room temperature.
Avoid assembling bowls in advance, as the panko and avocado may not hold well over time.
Nutrition & Benefits
This Crunch Roll Sushi Bowl offers a satisfying mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fats. Avocado provides fiber and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, shrimp adds lean protein, and veggies contribute vitamins and minerals.
Toasted panko gives you that crispy texture you crave without deep frying.
Using a homemade spicy mayo lets you control the spice level and skip added sugars or preservatives found in restaurant sauces.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prep the ingredients in advance and assemble just before serving for the best texture.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Use gluten-free panko and soy sauce alternatives like tamari.
3. What’s the best protein swap for shrimp?
Crispy tofu, grilled salmon, or imitation crab work well here.
4. Can I make this low-carb?
Absolutely! Swap rice for cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage.
5. How spicy is the mayo?
It’s mildly spicy with 1 teaspoon sriracha. Adjust more or less depending on your taste.
Crunchy, Creamy, and Totally Crave-Worthy
This Crunch Roll Sushi Bowl delivers big flavor and texture with minimal effort.
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, sushi lovers, or just want a fun weeknight dinner that feels special, this bowl checks all the boxes.
It’s endlessly customizable, quick to assemble, and guaranteed to satisfy.