Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots are a simple and delicious side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots with a lovely twist. The carrots are roasted until tender, then coated with a sticky, flavorful glaze made from honey and garlic. This combination creates a beautiful balance of sweet and savory that everyone will enjoy.
I love making this recipe when I want something easy but special to go alongside a weeknight dinner. The aroma of garlic and honey roasting together fills the kitchen, and it always gets compliments. A little tip I’ve found helpful is to toss the carrots halfway through roasting so they get evenly caramelized and glossy with the glaze.
These roasted carrots are perfect served warm, right out of the oven, alongside roasted chicken or pork. They also taste great cooled down in a salad for a light lunch. I often make a big batch because they’re great for leftovers and add a little sunshine to any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are perfect here for quick roasting and even size. If you only have large carrots, peel and cut them into sticks or thin rounds to ensure even cooking.
Honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and a lovely glaze. You can swap for maple syrup or agave syrup if you want a vegan option or a different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a strong, aromatic punch. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can work, but fresh is best for that bright garlicky taste.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps with roasting and adds subtle richness. You could substitute avocado oil or vegetable oil if preferred.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and fresh flavor at the end. If you don’t have it, a sprinkle of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary also works well.
How Do You Get the Carrots Perfectly Tender and Caramelized?
Roasting carrots until tender with a caramelized glaze is key for this recipe’s success. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat the oven hot enough—400°F (200°C) is ideal for browning without drying out the carrots.
- Coat the carrots evenly in the honey-garlic oil—this sticky mix helps create that caramelized finish.
- Spread carrots out in a single layer so they roast evenly and don’t steam.
- Turn them halfway through baking to brown all sides and keep the glaze from burning.
- Keep an eye toward the end of roasting. The carrots should be soft when pierced but still hold some bite, with a golden, slightly sticky surface.
Following these steps helps achieve carrots that are tender on the inside and nicely glazed on the outside—just right every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for spreading carrots out in a single layer for even roasting.
- Mixing bowl – helps you toss carrots easily with the honey-garlic glaze without making a mess.
- Measuring spoons – to measure oil, honey, salt, and pepper accurately for balanced flavor.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for peeling and cutting larger carrots if needed.
- Spatula or tongs – useful for turning carrots halfway through roasting safely and evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky sweetness that pairs well with honey.
- Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary before roasting to give a fragrant herbal note.
- Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts after roasting for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Swap honey for maple syrup for a deeper sweetness and a slight caramel undertone.
Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Carrots and Glaze:
- 1 ½ pounds baby carrots (or peeled regular carrots cut into sticks)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
Time Needed
Prep time is about 5 minutes to mix the glaze and prepare the carrots. Roasting takes around 20-25 minutes, so altogether you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish to enjoy these delicious carrots.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to avoid sticking.
2. Mix the Honey Garlic Glaze:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, and minced garlic. Stir them well so the honey fully mixes with the oil, creating a smooth glaze.
3. Coat the Carrots:
Add the baby carrots to the bowl and toss them well until every carrot is coated evenly with the honey-garlic mixture. The glaze will give the carrots a shiny, flavorful coating.
4. Roast the Carrots:
Spread the coated carrots out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the salt and black pepper over them. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, use a spatula or tongs to flip the carrots for even caramelization on all sides. They should be tender and have a lovely golden-brown glaze when done.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once roasted, transfer the carrots to a serving dish. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top, and if you like a slight spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve warm and enjoy your sweet, savory, and tender roasted carrots!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before roasting. This helps prevent excess moisture, which can make the carrots steam instead of roast.
How Do I Store Leftover Roasted Carrots?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep them tender and flavorful.
Can I Substitute Maple Syrup for Honey?
Absolutely! Maple syrup is a great vegan-friendly alternative that provides a slightly different but equally delicious sweetness and glaze.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts can be tossed in the same honey garlic mixture and roasted together. Just cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
