Honey Roasted Carrots Recipe

Introduction

Honey roasted carrots are a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots with a touch of honey and a hint of spice. Perfectly caramelized and tender, these carrots pair beautifully with a variety of main courses.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons honey
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ tablespoon fresh thyme or fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Spread the carrots evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for about 20 minutes or until they are fork tender.
3. Step 3: While the carrots roast, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the honey and cayenne pepper, cooking for several minutes until combined and warmed through.
4. Step 4: Add the roasted carrots to the saucepan and stir to coat them evenly with the honey-butter mixture. Sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a nutty flavor, add toasted pecans or walnuts just before serving.
• Swap fresh thyme with rosemary for a different herbal note.
• If you prefer a milder spice, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
• Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper sweetness.

Storage

Store leftover honey roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to retain their tenderness and glaze.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?

Yes, baby carrots work well and save prep time. Just adjust roasting time as they may cook a bit faster.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried thyme or parsley can be used in a pinch; add about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Honey Roasted Carrots Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 117 reviews

This honey roasted carrots recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness and subtle heat, enhanced with fresh herbs and a buttery honey glaze. Tender roasted carrots are coated in a flavorful mixture of honey, cayenne pepper, and fresh thyme, making a deliciously simple side dish perfect for any meal.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Carrots

• 2 lbs. carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks

Seasoning & Oils

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Honey Glaze

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons honey
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Herbs

• ½ tablespoon fresh thyme or fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure evenly roasted carrots.
2. Prepare the carrots: In a large bowl, toss the peeled and chopped carrots with extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper until they are well coated.
3. Roast the carrots: Spread the carrots evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place in the oven and roast for about 20 minutes, or until the carrots are fork tender and slightly caramelized around the edges.
4. Make the honey glaze: While the carrots roast, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the honey and cayenne pepper, cooking the mixture for several minutes until combined and warm.
5. Coat the carrots: Add the roasted carrots to the saucepan and gently stir to coat them evenly with the honey-cayenne glaze.
6. Finish with herbs and seasoning: Sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley over the glazed carrots. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Notes

• For an extra depth of flavor, try using fresh thyme over parsley as the herb garnish.
• Cutting the carrots into uniform 2-inch chunks allows for even roasting.
• If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
• Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
• Butter can be substituted with a vegan alternative for dairy-free versions.

Keywords: honey roasted carrots, roasted carrots, honey glaze carrots, easy side dish, healthy carrots recipe, roasted vegetables