Marry Me Salmon is a rich and creamy dish that’s packed with flavor and features tender salmon fillets baked in a luscious sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cream. The sauce hugs the salmon, making each bite smooth, tangy, and a little bit special. It’s a simple dish that feels fancy without needing to spend hours in the kitchen.
I love making this salmon whenever I want an easy but impressive dinner that feels like a treat. The sauce is what really steals the show—it’s creamy without being heavy and just the right amount of tangy from the sun-dried tomatoes. I usually sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving, which brightens everything up and adds a fresh touch.
My favorite way to eat Marry Me Salmon is with some roasted veggies and a side of crusty bread or fluffy rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. It’s the kind of meal that always gets compliments and leftovers seem to disappear fast around here. If you’re looking for a simple, tasty dish to impress your family or friends, this one is sure to hit the spot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe. Skin removed helps the sauce cling better. If salmon isn’t available, trout or cod can work, but cooking times may vary.
Sun-dried tomatoes: These add a tangy, slightly sweet punch. Use oil-packed ones for more flavor or dry-packed rehydrated in warm water. If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, a bit of tomato paste can be a substitute.
Heavy cream: This creates the rich, silky sauce. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option, though thickness will change slightly.
Chicken broth: It adds depth without overpowering. For vegetarians, replace with vegetable broth. You can also use water in a pinch but add a bit more seasoning.
Fresh parsley and lemon: These brighten the dish. Parsley gives a fresh herb note while lemon juice balances creaminess with acidity. If parsley isn’t your favorite, basil or cilantro can be fresh alternatives.
How Do You Get the Perfect Salmon Sear Without Overcooking?
Searing salmon perfectly can be tricky. Here’s what works for me:
- Pat the salmon dry with paper towels before seasoning to get that nice, crisp crust.
- Heat the pan over medium-high heat with oil. The pan should be hot but not smoking.
- Place salmon away from you in the pan to prevent splatters and press down gently for even contact.
- Cook without moving it for about 4 minutes until the edges turn golden brown.
- Flip gently and cook the other side for 3–4 minutes; the center should be slightly translucent for moistness.
Removing from heat a little early means the salmon will finish cooking in the sauce and stay tender. This method keeps the salmon juicy and flavorful every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large non-stick or stainless steel skillet – perfect for searing salmon evenly without sticking.
- Spatula – helps you flip the salmon gently without breaking the fillets.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts, especially cream and broth.
- Knife and cutting board – essential for chopping garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and parsley.
- Juicer or reamer – makes getting fresh lemon juice quick and easy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for trout or halibut for a different but still tender fish option.
- Add chopped spinach or kale to the sauce for extra greens and nutrients.
- Mix in sun-dried tomato pesto instead of chopped tomatoes for a richer flavor.
- Use capers or olives in the sauce to add a briny, tangy twist that brightens the creaminess.
Marry Me Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
- Juice of half a lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus some extra for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
The whole recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes searing the salmon and preparing the sauce, then a few extra minutes letting everything simmer together and warm through. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Salmon:
Pat your salmon dry and season both sides well with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. When the oil is hot, gently add the salmon. Cook the fillets without moving them for about 4 minutes, until they develop a nice golden crust. Flip and cook the other side for 3-4 minutes until done but still moist inside. Remove the salmon and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. After the butter melts, add minced garlic and cook just for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for about a minute. Then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, adding dried oregano and red pepper flakes if you like some spice. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes so it thickens a bit.
3. Finish and Serve:
Add the lemon juice and chopped parsley to the sauce, tasting and adjusting salt and pepper as needed. Return the salmon fillets to the pan and spoon sauce over them. Let them warm together for a minute or two. Garnish with more parsley and serve right away with lemon wedges on the side.
Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Salmon with roasted veggies, a side of rice, or crusty bread to soak up every bit of that creamy, tangy sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the salmon in the fridge overnight or under cold running water. Pat it dry before cooking to get that perfect sear.
Can I Make Marry Me Salmon Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it separately for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before adding the salmon and warming through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover salmon and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to avoid drying out the fish.
What Sides Go Best with Marry Me Salmon?
This salmon pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or crusty bread that will soak up the creamy sauce. A simple green salad also makes a nice, fresh complement.
