Marry Me Salmon is a simple, flavorful dish that’s all about tender salmon fillets topped with a creamy, garlicky sauce that has just the right touch of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs. The rich sauce and flaky fish come together in a way that’s easy to love and even easier to cook.
I have to admit, I love making this recipe when I want something a little special but without a lot of fuss. The sauce feels fancy, but it’s really straightforward to whip up while the salmon bakes in the oven. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’ve put in extra care, even on a busy weeknight.
One of my favorite ways to serve Marry Me Salmon is over a bed of steamed rice or alongside some roasted veggies. The sauce soaks up perfectly, making every bite comforting and full of flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser at dinner parties too—people always ask for the recipe afterward!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh, skinless fillets work best here for a tender bite. If you prefer, keep the skin on to get a crispy finish when searing, just cook a little longer.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a lovely tang and chewiness. If you can’t find oil-packed, rehydrate dry ones in warm water or use roasted red peppers for a milder flavor.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and smooth. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut cream, though the taste and texture will change slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a nice salty, nutty touch. Pecorino Romano or Asiago are good stand-ins if you want to switch it up.
Italian Seasoning & Red Pepper Flakes: Italian seasoning blends herbs, saving time. If you prefer one herb fresh, basil or oregano work great. Adjust red pepper flakes to control spiciness.
How Do You Get the Best Sear on Salmon Without Overcooking?
Searing salmon well can be tricky. Here’s a simple way to get a beautiful color and keep it juicy inside:
- Pat salmon dry to avoid steam, which can prevent browning.
- Use a hot pan with enough oil to prevent sticking but not too much to fry it.
- Place fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) and don’t move them for 2-3 minutes to develop a crust.
- Flip carefully and sear for another 2-3 minutes. The salmon should be slightly underdone before baking.
Finishing in the oven helps cook the salmon gently, keeping it moist without drying it out. Keep an eye so it flakes easily with a fork but stays tender inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet – perfect for searing the salmon and then baking it without extra dishes.
- Spatula – helps flip salmon gently without breaking the fillets.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the cream, cheese, and spices just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for cod or halibut for a milder fish that still holds up well in the creamy sauce.
- Add fresh spinach or kale to the sauce for extra greens and a healthy boost.
- Use feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangier, saltier flavor twist.
- Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of lemon juice for a bright, smoky edge.
How to Make Marry Me Salmon?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced, for garnish
- Optional: cooked rice or roasted vegetables, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10-12 minutes to cook, including searing and baking time. It’s a quick and easy meal that you can prepare and enjoy in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep and Season the Salmon:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Salmon:
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they get a nice golden brown color but aren’t fully cooked. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside for now.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the pan.
Mix in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Bake the Salmon in Sauce:
Put the salmon fillets back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Transfer the whole skillet to the oven and bake for 6-8 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven. Garnish the salmon with fresh basil slices and spoon extra sauce over each fillet. Serve immediately with your choice of cooked rice or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry well to get a good sear and avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option, but the sauce may be thinner and less rich. Adding a little cornstarch slurry can help thicken it.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to prevent overcooking the fish.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce ahead and refrigerate it separately. When ready to eat, reheat the sauce and quickly sear fresh salmon before baking to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
