Name: Marry Me Salmon with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 4 (4-ounce) salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup chicken stock; 1 teaspoon chicken flavor “Better Than Bouillon” or 1 chicken bouillon cube; ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; 1 (7-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped; ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Kosher salt, to taste; ¼ cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves; Cooked pasta or mashed potatoes, for serving (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 240 reviews

There’s something truly magical about the Marry Me Salmon with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe. This dish combines tender, perfectly baked salmon fillets with a rich, luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce that wraps every bite in a warm hug. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or simply treating yourself to a dinner that feels like a celebration, the balance of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors makes this recipe utterly unforgettable. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, proving that impressive meals don’t always require hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an arrangement of raw salmon fillets and various ingredients on a white marbled surface. On the right side, there are four pieces of fresh salmon with a bright orange color and visible white lines of fat placed on white crinkled paper. Around the salmon, there are small white bowls holding different spices and seasonings: salt, black pepper, dried red chili flakes, minced garlic, a thick brown paste, and a light powder. Above the salmon, a small bowl contains grated cheese that is pale yellow in color. To the left, there is a bowl filled with dark red chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Fresh green basil leaves form a leafy cluster in the top left corner. Two small white bowls contain a golden yellow oil and a pale vinegar or broth. A small jar of creamy white sauce is also visible near the basil. The different textures include smooth fish, leafy greens, dry spices, and soft chopped tomatoes. All items are displayed neatly with good lighting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward but flavor-packed ingredients. Each item plays a vital role, from seasoning the salmon perfectly to creating the creamy, tangy sauce that steals the show. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

Kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors and helps season the salmon evenly.
Brown sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the savory spices on the fish.
Garlic powder: Brings warmth and depth to the salmon rub.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs infusing an earthy note into both the salmon and sauce.
Freshly cracked black pepper: Offers a mild heat and pungency to elevate the flavor profile.
Salmon fillets: The star of the show, providing a tender and flaky base.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Essential for both roasting the salmon and sautéing the sauce ingredients.
Garlic cloves, minced: Adds fresh, aromatic punch to the creamy sauce.
Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its luscious, silky texture.
Chicken stock: Balances the richness of the cream with a savory backbone.
Chicken flavor “Better Than Bouillon” or chicken bouillon cube: Intensifies the savory note without overpowering the other flavors.
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Melts into the sauce, contributing sharpness and umami.
Sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped: Adds a vibrant, chewy tanginess bursting with concentrated tomato flavor.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Provides a subtle kick, perfect for those who like a hint of heat.
Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced: Offers a bright, herbaceous finish that complements the creamy sauce.
Cooked pasta or mashed potatoes: Perfect vessels to soak up every bit of the glorious sauce.

How to Make Marry Me Salmon with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Salmon

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and positioning a rack in the center. This ensures even cooking for your salmon fillets. In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, brown sugar, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and freshly cracked black pepper. Brush the salmon with extra-virgin olive oil to help the spices stick, then generously rub the spice mix all over the fillets, ensuring every nook is coated. Place them skin-side down on a rimmed baking sheet, ready for their golden finish.

Step 2: Bake the Salmon to Perfect Flakiness

Bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness, or until the flesh easily flakes with a fork. You’ll want tender, moist salmon – overcooked is the enemy here. While the salmon is baking, you can start preparing the luscious sauce that will take this dish to the next level.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

Heat extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant; this quick step releases those irresistible aromas that get your taste buds dancing. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken stock, and your chicken bouillon or “Better Than Bouillon” to boost richness. Stir in half the Parmesan, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Finish with salt to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Salmon and Sauce

Discard the salmon skin carefully and nestle each fillet into the creamy sauce, letting them mingle and soak up all those gorgeous flavors. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh basil on top, along with a little more red pepper flakes if you like a touch more heat. It’s the perfect moment where the flavors fully come together, ready to wow anyone lucky enough to have a bite.

How to Serve Marry Me Salmon with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe

A black pan sits on a white marbled surface, holding four pieces of cooked salmon. Each salmon piece is a rich orange color with a crispy, slightly browned texture on top, showing specks of black pepper and seasoning. The salmon pieces float in a creamy light beige sauce that is smooth and thick, covering the base of the pan evenly. The pan has two black handles on each side, and the photo is taken from above, showing the salmon lying flat and separated slightly from each other. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly shredded Parmesan and torn basil leaves is all it takes to brighten up this romantic dinner. If you want a little added texture, a scattering of toasted pine nuts or crispy shallots would offer a delightful crunch without overpowering the creaminess.

Side Dishes

This sauce is a dream over buttered pasta or creamy mashed potatoes, providing the perfect blank canvas to soak up every drop. For a lighter touch, serve with steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach – their mild bitterness balances the richness of the dish beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or special occasion, consider plating the salmon over a bed of herb-infused risotto or even cauliflower puree for a low-carb option. A drizzle of balsamic glaze around the plate or edible flowers can elevate the presentation and spark conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Marry Me Salmon with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making the next-day meal just as tasty.

Freezing

Freezing is possible but not ideal for the salmon itself as it may become a bit dry upon thawing. If you freeze leftovers, separate the salmon and sauce, freezing them individually in sealed containers for up to 1 month, and defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the salmon. Stir the sauce frequently until warm and then carefully reintroduce the salmon to warm through without drying out. Using a microwave on low power with short bursts can also work in a pinch.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon fully in the fridge overnight and pat it dry before seasoning to ensure a nice crust and even cooking.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?

You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich and silky as with heavy cream.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

Try using fresh cherry tomatoes sautéed until soft for a fresher take, though the concentrated tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes is hard to replicate exactly.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The sauce can be made a few hours in advance and gently reheated before adding the cooked salmon. Just stir frequently to prevent separation.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir pairs beautifully, as their acidity cuts through the creaminess while complementing the salmon’s rich flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that feels both indulgent and approachable, the Marry Me Salmon with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s full of bold flavors, easy enough for a weeknight, and impressive enough for date night. Give it a try and watch your loved ones fall head over heels for every delicious bite!

Marry Me Salmon with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need