Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Mouthwatering Marry Me Salmon is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that combines tender, perfectly seared salmon fillets with a luscious sun-dried tomato and garlic cream sauce. This elegant yet simple recipe is perfect for romantic dinners, family meals, or impressing guests. With bold flavors and a velvety texture, it’s no wonder it’s called “Marry Me” — one bite and it’s love at first taste.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
salmon filletssalt and pepperolive oilgarlic (minced)chicken brothheavy creamgrated parmesan cheesesun-dried tomatoes (chopped)red pepper flakesdried oreganofresh basil (for garnish)
directions
Season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute.
Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Lower the heat and add heavy cream, parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano.
Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
Return the salmon to the pan, spooning the sauce over the fillets to coat.
Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes
Variations
Swap salmon for chicken breasts or shrimp for a different protein.
Add spinach or mushrooms for a heartier dish.
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a citrusy brightness.
Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up the sauce.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.Avoid freezing as the cream sauce may separate.
FAQs
Why is it called “Marry Me” Salmon?
The name comes from its irresistible flavor — so good, it could spark a marriage proposal!
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Can I make it ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce ingredients in advance, but it’s best cooked fresh to keep the salmon tender.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust to taste.
What’s the best pan to use?
A heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan gives the best sear on the salmon.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Cream is recommended for the best texture, but you can try whole milk with added butter for richness.
What kind of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?
Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the richest flavor and best texture.
What can I serve with this?
Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side salad complement it beautifully.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your chicken broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Conclusion
Mouthwatering Marry Me Salmon is an unforgettable dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just minutes. With its creamy sauce and bold ingredients, it’s perfect for a date night or any time you want to make a meal feel extra special. Give it a try — and prepare for compliments!
PrintMouthwatering Marry Me Salmon
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Mouthwatering Marry Me Salmon is a creamy, flavorful salmon dish baked in a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce with garlic and herbs. Perfect for romantic dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skinless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), chopped
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic, red pepper flakes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Add heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan, oregano, thyme, and paprika. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Return the salmon to the skillet, spooning some sauce over each fillet.
- Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Notes
- Use skin-on salmon if preferred; just sear skin-side down first.
- Can substitute half-and-half for a lighter cream sauce.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.