Marry Me Salmon – A Creamy, Irresistible Dish That Will Win Hearts
If you’re searching for an elegant, restaurant-quality meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a special occasion, look no further than Marry Me Salmon. This dish is a twist on the viral Marry Me Chicken, featuring succulent salmon fillets baked in a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce with Parmesan, garlic, and aromatic herbs.
Why is it called “Marry Me Salmon”? Because it’s so delicious, rich, and comforting that it might just earn you a marriage proposal! Whether you’re cooking for a date night, family dinner, or a solo indulgence, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
✔ Rich & Flavorful – The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce is irresistible.
✔ Healthy & Satisfying – Salmon is packed with protein, omega-3s, and nutrients.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Reheats well and tastes just as delicious the next day.
✔ Elegant Yet Simple – Fancy enough for a special dinner, but easy to make!
Ingredients for Marry Me Salmon
Main Ingredients:
-
4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
2 tablespoons butter
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed for the best flavor)
-
¼ cup heavy cream
-
¼ cup chicken broth
-
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
-
1 teaspoon dried thyme
-
1 teaspoon dried basil
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
✔ Baking Dish – To bake the salmon in the creamy sauce.
✔ Large Skillet – For sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
✔ Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring the sauce.
✔ Knife & Cutting Board – For prepping ingredients.
✔ Grater – For fresh Parmesan.
How to Make Marry Me Salmon
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
-
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
-
Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and basil.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
-
Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
-
Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
-
Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes to soften.
-
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
-
Stir in Parmesan cheese, thyme, and basil, letting the sauce thicken.
-
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 3: Bake the Salmon
-
Place the seasoned salmon fillets in a baking dish.
-
Pour the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce over the salmon.
-
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
-
Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
-
Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
What to Serve with Marry Me Salmon
🥦 Roasted Vegetables – Try asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini.
🍚 Fluffy Rice – Jasmine rice or cauliflower rice pairs beautifully.
🍝 Pasta – Serve over angel hair or fettuccine for a decadent meal.
🥗 Fresh Salad – A crisp arugula or Caesar salad balances the richness.
🍷 Wine Pairing – A chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigeration:
-
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
-
You can freeze the salmon without the sauce for up to 2 months.
-
For best results, make the sauce fresh when reheating.
Reheating:
-
Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream.
-
You can also microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between intervals.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
🔹 Make It Dairy-Free – Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan.
🔹 Make It Spicier – Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
🔹 Use Another Protein – Swap salmon for chicken, shrimp, or cod.
🔹 Lower the Carbs – Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash instead of pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Do I have to bake the salmon?
No, you can cook the salmon entirely on the stovetop by simmering it in the sauce for 5-7 minutes.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Sun-dried tomatoes add a deeper, more intense flavor, but fresh cherry tomatoes can work.
How do I know when salmon is done?
Salmon is cooked through when it reaches 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half, Greek yogurt, or full-fat coconut milk are good alternatives.
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Salmon is an easy, elegant, and ultra-delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner, romantic meal, or impressing guests, this recipe delivers rich flavors and creamy goodness in every bite.
If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and subscribe to the blog for more mouthwatering, easy-to-make recipes!
Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!
