Name: Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs carrots, peeled and trimmed (whole or halved lengthwise); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or dairy-free alternative); 2 tablespoons honey; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or thyme

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Introduction

These Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots are a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots with a luscious garlic butter glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, they roast up tender and caramelized for an irresistible treat.

The image shows many cooked baby carrots with a shiny, slightly glazed orange surface. They have a few small grill marks and are sprinkled with small green herb pieces. The carrots are stacked closely, filling the frame, with a soft focus on the edges. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs carrots, peeled and trimmed (whole or halved lengthwise)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or dairy-free alternative)
2 tablespoons honey
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: fresh parsley or thyme

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the carrots by peeling them. If they are thick, slice each carrot in half lengthwise. Pat them dry to ensure better roasting.
Step 3: Make the glaze by melting the butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the honey and minced garlic, then add a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Arrange the carrots on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle half of the honey garlic butter over them and toss to coat evenly.
Step 5: Roast the carrots for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are fork-tender and lightly caramelized.
Step 6: Drizzle the remaining glaze over the roasted carrots and toss gently. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
You can substitute maple syrup for honey to keep it vegan-friendly.
Roasting carrots whole preserves more moisture and makes for a beautiful presentation.
Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright finish.

Storage

Store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven until warmed through to keep their tenderness and flavor.

How to Serve

A close-up of cooked baby carrots, glossy and bright orange with a slight char on some, showing a soft texture. They are sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs, evenly spread on top and giving a fresh look. The carrots fill the frame, lying on a white marbled surface that contrasts with their warm colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?

Fresh carrots are best for roasting as frozen carrots tend to release more water and become mushy. If using frozen, thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before roasting.

How do I know when the carrots are done roasting?

The carrots should be fork-tender and lightly caramelized on the edges. Roasting typically takes 20–25 minutes at 400°F, but check by piercing with a fork for your preferred tenderness.