Save
Sweet and savory glazed carrots are a breeze to make. Roasting brings out their earthy flavor, while a buttery honey and garlic glaze gives them a shiny caramel coating. Whether it’s a special dinner or just your average Wednesday, this dish always gets everyone excited to eat their veggies.
The first time I tossed sad-looking carrots into the oven with this glaze, I couldn’t believe how tasty they ended up. Now it’s my standby whenever I need a quick veggie side with a pop of color and flavor.
Vibrant Ingredients
- Carrots: Go for firm, fresh carrots for best taste and texture. I love grabbing rainbow ones—they look amazing.
- Honey: Raw or local honey gives it richer, deeper flavor and nice sweetness.
- Garlic: Plump, fresh cloves add a bold kick. Skip any with shriveled skins.
- Fresh parsley: Chop up some bright leaves for color and a fresh hint at the end.
- Unsalted butter: This melts down super smooth, making the glaze extra rich. I pick European style if I see it.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Crank it right from the mill for a little heat and aroma.
- Salt: Kosher or sea salt works best to draw out the flavors and keep everything balanced.
Easy Steps to Follow
- Finish and Serve:
- Straight from the oven, taste and add more seasoning if you need. Pile onto a serving plate. Sprinkle fresh parsley over so it looks extra bright. Serve them up warm for max flavor and that glossy glaze.
- Roast:
- Spread carrots out on an oiled sheet in one layer—don’t crowd them. Pop into your oven at 425°F. Let them roast 22–25 minutes, turning halfway for even browning. You want the edges caramelized and the carrots fork-tender.
- Toss and Coat:
- Dump the chopped carrots in a big bowl. Pour on the honey-garlic glaze. Shake on salt and pepper. Toss it all until the carrots are shiny and evenly coated.
- Prep the Carrots:
- Peel, rinse, and slice carrots at an angle about 2–3 inches long. That way they roast evenly and look great when plated.
- Whip Up the Glaze:
- Melt butter in a small pot. Add chopped garlic and cook while stirring a couple minutes, until fragrant and just turning golden. Take it off the heat and stir in honey. This is your sticky, tasty glaze.
Save
Honestly, local honey is the magic in this glaze. My kids love helping out by drizzling some on at the end. This side has made plenty of family gatherings way more special.
Smart Storage Tips
Let your leftovers cool off first, then scoop them into a sealed container. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Warm them up in the oven if you want the glaze to come back and edges to crisp slightly. If you microwave them, you lose some of that roasted goodness, so try to avoid that.
Swap Options
Out of honey? Maple syrup totally works and brings its own cozy vibe. If dairy’s not your thing, use vegan butter or olive oil. Orange zest or a dash of balsamic both add a fun twist to the glaze. You can even use baby carrots—just check them a bit early, since they cook faster.
Serving Ideas
They go with everything—think roast turkey, beef, or chicken. Try them with a grain bowl, in rice pilaf, or with a winter salad for some color. Toss any leftovers into a wrap, omelet, or cozy stew. If you want a bit of heat, add chili flakes or top with some tahini sauce.
Save
Origins and Background
You’ll find roasted carrots anywhere from French bistros to American dinner tables. That super simple garlic honey glaze reminds me of sweet veggie sides from holidays growing up. It’s all about using what you’ve got to make something tasty and still modern.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I stop the carrots from burning in the oven?
Chop your carrots to roughly the same size so they cook evenly. Give them a good toss about halfway through so they brown nicely but don’t burn.
- → Can whole carrots be swapped for baby carrots?
Absolutely, just keep an eye on them. Baby carrots cook a little faster, so check them early to make sure they’re soft and getting a bit of color.
- → How do I kick up the flavor a notch?
Add a splash of balsamic or sprinkle in some chili flakes. Both give your glaze extra zing or a bit of heat, however you like.
- → Any tips for making this ahead?
Go ahead and roast the carrots first. Pop them in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to warm up before you’re ready to eat. They’ll taste just like fresh.
- → What main dishes go with glazed carrots?
They’re awesome with roast meats or baked chicken. Or toss leftovers into an omelet, grain bowl, or salad for another meal.