Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots: The Perfect Side Dish

When it comes to side dishes, Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots are a showstopper. These carrots are sweet, savory, buttery, and bursting with flavor thanks to the irresistible combination of honey and garlic. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or as a delicious addition to weeknight meals, this dish elevates simple carrots into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece.

The magic lies in the glaze—a heavenly blend of butter, garlic, and honey that coats the carrots before roasting them to golden perfection. The high heat caramelizes the honey, enhancing the natural sweetness of the carrots, while the garlic and butter add depth and richness. The result? Tender, flavorful carrots with just the right amount of crispness.

Whether you’re serving these carrots alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a hearty vegetarian dish, they’re sure to steal the spotlight. Plus, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals.

Why You’ll Love Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots

1. Simple Ingredients

With pantry staples like butter, honey, and garlic, this recipe requires minimal effort to create maximum flavor.

2. Sweet and Savory Perfection

The natural sweetness of carrots is enhanced by honey, while butter and garlic provide a savory balance.

3. Quick and Easy

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal last-minute side.

4. Healthy and Delicious

Carrots are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making this a nutritious yet indulgent side dish.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, these carrots fit right in.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these flavorful roasted carrots:

• 2 pounds carrots: Cut diagonally into 2–3-inch pieces for even cooking.
• 5 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and enhances the flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): Provides aromatic, savory goodness.
• 2 tablespoons honey: Adds a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth.
• Chopped fresh parsley: For garnish and a burst of freshness.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4–6

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 425˚F (220˚C).
2. Grease a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In a large nonstick skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The garlic should be lightly browned and aromatic.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the honey. Mix until the butter and honey are thoroughly combined to form a glossy sauce.

3: Toss the Carrots in the Sauce

1. Place the diagonally cut carrots in a large mixing bowl or return them to the skillet.
2. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the carrots.
3. Season with salt and pepper, then toss to coat the carrots evenly with the sauce.

4: Arrange and Roast

1. Transfer the carrots to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
2. Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 22–25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.

5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the carrots from the oven and transfer them to a serving plate.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
3. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve

Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

• Holiday Meals: Serve alongside roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or beef tenderloin for a festive feast.
• Casual Dinners: Pair with baked chicken, pork chops, or grilled salmon for a simple yet satisfying meal.
• Vegetarian Platters: Include in a spread of roasted vegetables, grains, and dips for a colorful, plant-based option.
• Brunch: Add them to a brunch table with quiche, frittata, or savory scones for an elegant twist.

Tips for Perfect Roasted Carrots

1. Cut Evenly: Slice the carrots into uniform sizes to ensure they roast evenly.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the carrots out in a single layer to promote caramelization.
3. Watch the Garlic: Keep a close eye on the garlic while cooking—it can burn quickly if left unattended.
4. Add Fresh Herbs: For extra flavor, toss in fresh thyme or rosemary along with the parsley garnish.
5. Use Baby Carrots: For a quicker option, use pre-washed baby carrots instead of cutting large ones.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the garlic butter sauce for a touch of heat.
• Citrus Twist: Add a splash of orange juice or a sprinkle of orange zest to brighten the flavors.
• Nutty Addition: Top the roasted carrots with toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Vegan Version: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative, like vegan margarine or olive oil.
• Honey Substitution: Use maple syrup or agave nectar for a slightly different sweetness profile.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze the carrots for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven to restore some of their texture.
• Reheating: Warm the carrots in a 375˚F oven for 5–10 minutes or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the garlic butter sauce and toss it with the carrots in advance. Store them in the fridge until ready to roast.

Q: Can I use whole carrots instead of cutting them?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they cook through.

Q: What other vegetables can I use?
A: This garlic butter sauce works beautifully with parsnips, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.

Q: Can I use pre-minced garlic?
A: Fresh garlic is best for this recipe, but pre-minced garlic can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making them an irresistible side dish for any occasion. With their caramelized exterior and tender interior, these carrots are packed with flavor and nutrients.

Whether you’re serving them at a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, they’re guaranteed to impress. Plus, their ease of preparation and simple ingredients make them a go-to recipe when you need a quick, delicious side.

So, grab your carrots and get roasting—you’ll have a beautiful, flavorful dish ready in no time. Enjoy!

Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots: The Perfect Side Dish

---

• Author: TAYLOR HARRISON
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4–6 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Sweet and savory roasted carrots coated in a buttery honey garlic glaze and caramelized to perfection.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds carrots (cut diagonally into 2–3-inch pieces)
• 5 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

---

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 425˚F and prepare a baking sheet.
• Melt butter in a skillet, cook garlic until lightly browned, and mix in honey.
• Toss carrots in the honey garlic butter sauce, season with salt and pepper.
• Arrange carrots on the baking sheet in a single layer.
• Roast for 22–25 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Notes

Refrigerate for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American