There’s something irresistible about tender salmon simmered in a creamy, garlicky sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan.
This dish is rich, flavorful, and elegant enough for a dinner date, yet simple enough to cook on a weeknight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The salmon stays moist and flaky while soaking up all the creamy sauce.
Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy depth that balances the richness.
It’s versatile—serve it with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
The dish looks restaurant-quality but comes together in under 40 minutes.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Fresh salmon fillets seared to golden perfection create the base.
Butter, garlic, and flour form the start of a silky sauce.
Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese bring luxurious richness.
Sun-dried tomatoes add sweet-tart flavor that elevates the sauce.
Fresh basil adds a bright, herby finish.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat salmon fillets dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, richest sauce.
Don’t skip the lemon zest—it lightens up the creamy sauce.
Let the sauce simmer gently so it thickens without burning.
How to Make Marry Me Salmon
Step 1 – Season the salmon
Brush fillets with olive oil and season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
Step 2 – Sear the salmon
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear salmon 3 minutes per side until golden, then lower heat to finish cooking.
Remove and set aside.
Step 3 – Make the sauce base
Melt butter in the skillet. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
Stir in flour to form a paste.
Step 4 – Add liquids and cheese
Slowly whisk in chicken broth, then add cream and Parmesan until smooth.
Step 5 – Add flavor boosters
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and lemon zest. Adjust seasoning.
Step 6 – Simmer with salmon
Return salmon fillets to the pan.
Simmer gently 10 minutes until flavors meld.
Step 7 – Garnish and serve
Top with fresh basil and serve warm with pasta, rice, or vegetables.
What to Serve Them With
Pair with linguine, penne, or rice for a hearty main dish.
Serve alongside sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus.
Add crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce.
Variations / Substitutions
Use chicken breasts instead of salmon for a similar “Marry Me Chicken” twist.
Swap sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers for a sweeter flavor.
Add crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
Avoid freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the sauce and reheat before serving.
What type of salmon works best?
Skinless fillets, either Atlantic or wild-caught, both work well.
Do I need to use heavy cream?
Yes, for richness and thickness. Half-and-half won’t thicken as well.
Can I bake the salmon instead?
Yes, bake seasoned fillets at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, then add to the sauce.
How do I know salmon is cooked?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach 145°F internally.
Can I use a different cheese?
Parmesan is classic, but Pecorino Romano is a good alternative.
Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Salmon is creamy, flavorful, and absolutely crowd-pleasing.
Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a family dinner, or just treating yourself, it’s the kind of recipe that always impresses.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.