Creamy Marry Me Salmon
Creamy “Marry Me” Salmon (No Bacon) – A Decadent & Flavorful Dish
If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible salmon dish, this Creamy “Marry Me” Salmon is exactly what you need! Inspired by the famous Marry Me Chicken, this dish features perfectly pan-seared salmon fillets smothered in a luscious garlic parmesan sun-dried tomato sauce—and best of all, it’s made without bacon for a lighter yet still indulgent version.
This dish is quick, easy, and perfect for a romantic dinner, family meal, or special occasion. Pair it with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, Creamy, & Flavorful – A garlicky parmesan cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes.
- No Bacon, But Still Delicious – Lightened up without losing depth of flavor.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Works for a fancy dinner or a cozy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare & Sear the Salmon
- Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear salmon skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same pan, melt butter and add garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in broth, scraping the pan to deglaze.
- Stir in heavy cream, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Add lemon juice and stir.
3. Combine & Serve
- Return the salmon to the skillet, spooning sauce over the fillets.
- Let simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Best Sides to Serve with Creamy “Marry Me” Salmon
- Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Steamed Rice or Quinoa – A light and neutral base.
- Sautéed Spinach or Roasted Broccoli – Adds freshness and balance.
- Angel Hair Pasta – Tossed lightly in olive oil or extra sauce.
Tips for the Best Salmon
- Don’t Overcook It – Salmon is best at 130-135°F for a moist, flaky texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes enhance the flavor.
- Adjust the Sauce – Add more broth if too thick, or extra parmesan if you want it richer.
- For a Vegan Twist – Use plant-based cream, veggie broth, and tofu or chickpeas instead of salmon.
How to Store & Reheat
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream.
- Freezer: Not recommended, as cream sauces can separate.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Creamy “Marry Me” Salmon is rich, velvety, and packed with bold flavors—all without bacon! Whether you’re making it for date night, meal prep, or a cozy dinner, it’s sure to impress and satisfy.
So, grab your skillet and make this irresistible dish tonight!
PrintCreamy Marry Me Salmon
This dish is quick, easy, and perfect for a romantic dinner, family meal, or special occasion. Pair it with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare & Sear the Salmon
- Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear salmon skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same pan, melt butter and add garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in broth, scraping the pan to deglaze.
- Stir in heavy cream, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Add lemon juice and stir.
3. Combine & Serve
- Return the salmon to the skillet, spooning sauce over the fillets.
- Let simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Best Sides to Serve with Creamy “Marry Me” Salmon
- Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Steamed Rice or Quinoa – A light and neutral base.
- Sautéed Spinach or Roasted Broccoli – Adds freshness and balance.
- Angel Hair Pasta – Tossed lightly in olive oil or extra sauce.