Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots Recipe

Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots are a show-stopping side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a rich and flavorful glaze made from honey, garlic, and butter. Roasted to perfection, these carrots are caramelized on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this easy and delicious recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like honey, butter, and garlic.
2. Quick and Easy: Takes just a few minutes to prepare and delivers maximum flavor.
3. Versatile: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or everyday meals.
4. Healthy and Delicious: Packed with vitamins and nutrients while tasting indulgent.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and trim the carrots. If using large carrots, cut them in half lengthwise or into sticks for even roasting. Baby carrots can be used whole.

Step 2: Season the Carrots

1. Place the carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Drizzle the carrots with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 3: Roast the Carrots

1. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
2. Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking. The carrots should be tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Butter Glaze

1. While the carrots are roasting, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Stir in the honey, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook for another 1–2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Glaze the Carrots

1. After the initial roasting, remove the carrots from the oven and drizzle the honey garlic butter glaze over them. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Return the glazed carrots to the oven and roast for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the glaze caramelizes and the carrots are golden brown.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
3. Serve warm alongside your favorite main course.

Tips for Perfect Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots

1. Use Fresh Carrots: Fresh, firm carrots provide the best flavor and texture.
2. Cut Evenly: Ensure all carrot pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
3. Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow proper roasting and caramelization.
4. Adjust Sweetness: Add more or less honey based on your taste preferences.
5. Watch the Glaze: Keep an eye on the carrots during the final roasting stage to prevent the glaze from burning.

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for some heat.
2. Citrus Twist: Stir in a splash of orange juice or zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
3. Herbaceous Flavor: Swap thyme for rosemary or dill for a different herbal profile.
4. Maple Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a richer, deeper sweetness.
5. Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the carrots before serving for added crunch.

Pairing Suggestions

Main Dishes:

• Roasted Chicken: The sweetness of the carrots complements savory roasted chicken.
• Grilled Salmon: A perfect pairing for the rich, buttery flavor of salmon.
• Beef Tenderloin: Serve alongside for an elegant holiday dinner.

Side Dishes:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Creamy spinach or sautéed greens
• Warm dinner rolls

Drinks:

• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
• Sparkling water with a splash of lemon

Alternative Cooking Methods

Stove-Top Version

1. Steam or boil the carrots until tender.
2. Toss them in the honey garlic butter glaze over medium heat in a skillet until caramelized.

Slow Cooker Version

1. Place peeled carrots in a slow cooker.
2. Pour the honey garlic butter glaze over the top and toss to coat.
3. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use baby carrots?

Yes! Baby carrots work well and don’t require peeling. Adjust cooking time as they may roast faster.

What other vegetables can I use with this glaze?

This honey garlic butter glaze pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts.

How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Make sure to toss the carrots well so the glaze evenly coats each piece. Keep a close eye during the final roasting phase.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Holiday Meals
Serve these roasted carrots at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter for a side dish everyone will remember.

Weeknight Dinners
Quick enough for a busy evening, these carrots elevate any simple dinner.

Potluck Favorite
Bring this dish to your next gathering for a crowd-pleasing, visually stunning option.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots are an easy, elegant, and incredibly flavorful side dish that will become a staple in your recipe collection. With their caramelized exterior, tender interior, and irresistible glaze, these carrots are guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Try them today and bring a burst of flavor to your table!

Yield: 4

Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots Recipe

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Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots are a show-stopping side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a rich and flavorful glaze made from honey, garlic, and butter. Roasted to perfection, these carrots are caramelized on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether you're preparing a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this easy and delicious recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or left whole if baby carrots
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

2. Prepare the Carrots

1. If using whole carrots, peel and cut them into evenly sized sticks to ensure even roasting. Baby carrots can be left whole.
2. Place the carrots in a large mixing bowl.

3. Make the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, honey, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Stir until well combined.

4. Toss the Carrots

1. Pour the honey garlic butter sauce over the carrots in the mixing bowl.
2. Toss the carrots until they are evenly coated.

5. Roast the Carrots

1. Spread the coated carrots onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
2. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized. Flip them halfway through cooking for even browning.

6. Serve

1. Remove the carrots from the oven and transfer them to a serving plate.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
3. Serve warm as a side dish to your favorite main courses.

Notes

• Carrot Variations: Rainbow carrots add a colorful and vibrant presentation.
• Sweetness Adjustments: For a less sweet version, reduce the honey to 1 tablespoon.
• Add Crunch: Sprinkle roasted carrots with chopped toasted pecans or walnuts before serving.
• Pairing Ideas: These carrots pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a hearty beef roast.