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Marry Me Salmon

Few dishes have a name as intriguing as Marry Me Salmon. Inspired by the viral Marry Me Chicken, this recipe features tender, golden-seared salmon fillets nestled in a luscious, creamy Parmesan sauce infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian herbs. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for everything from romantic date nights to cozy family dinners.

This recipe gets its name from the idea that it’s so good, it could inspire a marriage proposal. One bite of flaky salmon paired with the tangy, savory cream sauce, and you’ll understand why.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Salmon

  • Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Restaurant-Quality – Creamy, rich, and full of flavor.
  • Versatile – Pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
  • Special Yet Simple – Elegant enough for entertaining, easy enough for weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets (skinless)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper

For the Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Salmon

  1. Pat salmon dry and brush with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  2. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-high.
  4. Sear salmon for 3 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce

  1. Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
  3. Stir in flour to form a paste.
  4. Slowly whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
  5. Add heavy cream and Parmesan, stirring until creamy.
  6. Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and lemon zest. Simmer until slightly thickened.

3. Combine & Serve

  1. Return salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
  2. Simmer on low for 5–7 minutes.
  3. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
  4. Serve warm with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Best Side Dishes to Pair With Marry Me Salmon

  • Garlic butter pasta or creamy risotto
  • Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts
  • Herb butter rice pilaf
  • Crusty bread or focaccia (perfect for soaking up sauce)
  • Crisp Caesar salad for freshness

Tips for Success

  • Don’t overcook the salmon – Remove from heat once it reaches 125–130°F for tender, flaky results.
  • Use fresh Parmesan – Pre-grated cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
  • Brighten with lemon – Zest and juice balance the richness of the sauce.
  • Make it lighter – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.

Storing & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Not recommended (cream sauce may separate).
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Salmon is the ultimate balance of elegance and comfort. With its velvety Parmesan-tomato sauce and golden seared salmon, it feels like a dish straight out of a restaurant kitchen—yet it comes together in just 30 minutes at home.

Whether you’re cooking for a romantic evening, a family dinner, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.