How to Make Marry Me Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon

Salmon lovers, get ready to fall head over heels. If you’ve ever dreamed of serving a meal so delicious that it could inspire a marriage proposal, this is that recipe. Meet Marry Me Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon—a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make.

This restaurant-quality salmon is pan-seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a creamy garlic butter sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and herbs. It’s indulgent yet balanced, elegant but easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Let’s dive into how to make this crave-worthy salmon recipe that might just win someone’s heart—or at least their appetite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather all your ingredients. This recipe serves 4.

For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine for more flavor)
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained and chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups baby spinach
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Juice of 1/2 a lemon

Tips for Perfecting Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon

1. Use Fresh, Quality Salmon

Wild-caught salmon offers richer flavor and firmer texture compared to farmed. Choose fillets that are bright in color and smell fresh—not fishy.

2. Avoid Overcooking

Salmon dries out easily. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—125°F is perfect for moist, tender salmon. Remember, it continues cooking a bit after removing from heat.

3. Don’t Skip the Sear

Searing locks in moisture and creates that irresistible crust. Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the fish.

4. Let the Sauce Simmer

Letting the sauce simmer gently helps it thicken and allows the ingredients to meld into a creamy, dreamy consistency.

Delicious Variations to Try with Garlic Butter Salmon

While the classic Marry Me Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon is hard to beat, you can easily customize it based on your preferences.

1. Swap the Protein

Not a fan of salmon? This sauce works beautifully with chicken breasts, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

2. Make It Dairy-Free

Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. The flavor profile changes slightly but remains rich and delicious.

3. Add More Veggies

Boost the nutrition by tossing in mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the garlic before adding liquids.

4. Spice It Up

Love heat? Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or stir in a touch of cayenne pepper or chili oil.

Conservation and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Reheating Tips

Gently reheat the salmon in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible—it can dry out the fish.

Freezing?

You can freeze the cooked salmon (without the sauce) for up to 2 months. However, the creamy sauce may separate when thawed and reheated, so it’s best made fresh.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking this dish takes around 30–35 minutes from start to finish. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Season the Salmon

Start by patting your salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step ensures a crispy sear. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

In a large skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on). Cook for 4–5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip the salmon and cook the other side for another 3–4 minutes.

Tip: Don’t move the salmon while it’s cooking—this helps create a beautiful crust.

Once the salmon is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 125°F for medium), remove it from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Tent with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for 30–45 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown!

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Add the chicken broth (or wine) and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly. Then, pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Add the Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Let the sauce simmer gently for about 4–5 minutes, allowing it to thicken and the flavors to blend. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.

Step 5: Add the Spinach

Toss in the baby spinach and stir until it wilts. This usually takes about 1–2 minutes.

Step 6: Return the Salmon

Carefully return the salmon fillets to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some of the creamy garlic butter sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for another 2–3 minutes so the salmon absorbs some of that delicious flavor.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright finish, and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

FAQs About Marry Me Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps in getting a good sear.

2. What kind of cream should I use for the sauce?

Use heavy cream or heavy whipping cream for the best results. It creates a thick, rich sauce that holds up well when simmered. Avoid using milk or light cream, as the sauce may not thicken properly.

3. Is this dish spicy?

The dish has a mild kick from the crushed red pepper flakes, but it’s not overly spicy. If you’re sensitive to heat, simply leave out the pepper flakes. If you love spice, feel free to add more!

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream and use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast. The texture stays creamy, and it still tastes amazing.

5. How do I know when salmon is cooked perfectly?

Perfectly cooked salmon should reach an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) for medium doneness. It should flake easily with a fork and remain moist in the center.

6. Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, you can meal prep it for up to 3 days. Store the salmon and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. For best results, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

7. What side dishes go best with Marry Me Salmon?

Great side dish options include:

Pasta (like fettuccine or penne)
Steamed rice or quinoa
Mashed potatoes
Roasted vegetables
Mixed greens or arugula salad

These sides soak up the creamy sauce and complement the richness of the salmon.

8. Can I use another fish instead of salmon?

Definitely! This creamy garlic butter sauce also pairs beautifully with:

Cod
Halibut
Trout
Even chicken breasts if you’re not in the mood for seafood.

Just adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the protein.

9. Can I freeze the leftovers?

You can freeze the cooked salmon, but freezing the creamy sauce is not recommended, as it may separate when reheated. If freezing, store the salmon alone and make the sauce fresh when ready to serve again.

10. How do I make this recipe keto-friendly?

This recipe is already low in carbs and perfect for a keto or low-carb diet. Just serve it with keto-approved sides like cauliflower rice or roasted broccoli instead of pasta or rice.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving ideas to elevate your meal:

1. Over Pasta

Spoon the creamy garlic butter sauce and salmon over fettuccine, linguine, or penne. It’s indulgent and filling.

2. With Rice or Quinoa

The sauce soaks beautifully into fluffy jasmine rice or nutty quinoa, creating a satisfying meal.

3. Next to Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes complement the richness of the salmon and soak up the sauce like a dream.

4. With Roasted Veggies

Balance out the richness with oven-roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans.

5. On a Bed of Greens

For a lighter option, serve the salmon over a bed of arugula or mixed greens. Drizzle some of the sauce as a warm dressing.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of garlic, butter, cream, and salmon. The flavors are bold yet comforting, and the sauce is so good you’ll want to lick your plate. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself, Marry Me Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon delivers every time.

A Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Worth Falling For

This dish isn’t just about great taste—it’s about creating moments. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a celebration, whether you’re making it on a cozy night in or for someone you love.

Its rich, garlicky cream sauce, paired with perfectly seared salmon, makes it both impressive and comforting. Plus, with easy-to-find ingredients and a cook time under 40 minutes, it fits beautifully into busy schedules without sacrificing flavor or presentation.

So next time you want to make a meal that gets people talking—or maybe even popping the question—try this Marry Me Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon. Because some dishes are more than just dinner—they’re an experience.