Marry Me Salmon is a dish that really lives up to its fun and romantic name. It features tender salmon fillets cooked in a creamy, flavorful sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a touch of creaminess that makes every bite feel special. The sauce perfectly hugs the salmon, creating a lovely balance of rich and tangy flavors that are simple but impressive.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels a little fancy but is still so easy to pull together on a weeknight. The sauce comes together quickly, and cooking the salmon right in the pan keeps everything moist and delicious. One tip I always follow: don’t skip the sun-dried tomatoes—they add a burst of flavor that really lifts the whole dish.
My favorite way to serve Marry Me Salmon is alongside some roasted veggies or a fresh green salad, along with buttery mashed potatoes or rice to soak up all that creamy sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat and usually gets a few “wow” compliments from my family or guests. Honestly, every time I make it, it feels like a little celebration on a plate!
Bake, Serve, Wear the Vibe 👕
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh or thawed salmon fillets work best. I like skin-on for extra flavor and crispiness, but skinless is fine too. If salmon isn’t available, trout fillets can be a nice substitute.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a bright, tangy punch. If you don’t have these, chopped roasted red peppers or even fresh cherry tomatoes can work, though the flavor will be milder.
Heavy Cream: It makes the sauce rich and smooth. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut cream. Just expect the sauce to be a bit less thick.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty, nutty taste and helps thicken the sauce. Pecorino Romano or Asiago are great substitutes if you want a slightly different flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Basil or parsley brighten the dish with freshness. If you can’t find these, dried Italian seasoning can be added instead, just use less to avoid overpowering the sauce.
How Do You Get That Creamy, Perfect Sauce Without It Breaking?
Making a smooth, creamy sauce is key here. The trick is to gently heat the cream and broth and avoid boiling vigorously. Here’s how:
- After sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, pour in broth and cream, stirring well.
- Let the mixture simmer gently—small bubbles, not a rolling boil. This keeps the cream stable.
- Slowly add Parmesan and stir until melted and the sauce thickens slightly, don’t rush.
- Lower heat or remove the pan if the sauce starts to separate or get too hot.
This method makes a creamy, dreamy sauce that pairs beautifully with the salmon without turning grainy or oily.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Ovenproof skillet – perfect for searing salmon and finishing it in the oven without extra dishes.
- Fish spatula – makes flipping salmon easy without breaking the fillets.
- Sharp chef’s knife – helps chop garlic and sun-dried tomatoes neatly and quickly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate cream, broth, and seasoning amounts.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring the sauce without scratching your pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for cod or halibut for a milder, flaky fish option.
- Add sautéed spinach or kale to the sauce for extra greens and nutrients.
- Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist in the creamy sauce.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a sharper, saltier flavor.
How to Make Marry Me Salmon?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off as preferred
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (if packed in oil, drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Cherry tomatoes and zucchini or other vegetables, optional for roasting or sautéing as a side
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes to cook, for a total of approximately 25 minutes. Optional roasting in the oven can add about 5-7 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Salmon:
Season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown but slightly underdone inside. Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer gently. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens. Add Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Finally, stir in fresh chopped basil or parsley.
3. Finish Cooking and Serve:
Return the salmon fillets to the skillet and spoon sauce over them. Optionally, place the skillet in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to finish cooking. Alternatively, cover and cook on low heat until salmon is done to your liking. Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh herbs and accompanied by roasted or sautéed vegetables and your choice of side like mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for a better sear.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with Something Lighter?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option. Keep in mind the sauce may be a bit less thick and creamy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftover salmon and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to keep the salmon moist and avoid curdling the sauce.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with Marry Me Salmon?
This salmon pairs beautifully with roasted or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and cherry tomatoes, mashed potatoes, rice, or even a light green salad to balance the creamy sauce.
