These Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots are a simple yet elegant side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots with a rich, caramelized glaze. The combination of honey, garlic, and butter creates a perfect balance of sweetness and savory depth, making these carrots irresistible alongside any meal.
Whether you’re serving them with a holiday feast, weeknight dinner, or a special occasion, this quick and easy recipe will be your new favorite way to enjoy carrots.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Effortless & Quick – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and ready in 30 minutes.
✔️ Sweet & Savory Perfection – The honey enhances the natural sweetness of carrots while garlic and butter add depth.
✔️ Perfectly Caramelized – Roasting at high heat creates a beautiful golden glaze.
✔️ Versatile Side Dish – Pairs well with chicken, beef, fish, or vegetarian meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 pounds baby carrots (or large carrots, peeled and cut into sticks)
- ½ cup butter, melted
- ¼ cup honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for extra flavor)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, honey, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme until well combined.
Step 3: Coat the Carrots
Place the carrots in a large mixing bowl and drizzle the honey garlic butter over them. Toss until evenly coated.
Step 4: Roast Until Caramelized
- Spread the coated carrots on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the carrots are tender and golden brown around the edges.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Roasted Carrots
🔹 Use Baby Carrots or Large Carrots – If using large carrots, slice them evenly for uniform cooking.
🔹 Caramelization is Key – Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this ensures perfect browning.
🔹 Adjust Sweetness – If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce honey or add a splash of balsamic vinegar.
🔹 Add a Spicy Kick – Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.
Variations & Customizations
✔️ Vegan Option – Swap butter for olive oil or dairy-free butter.
✔️ Balsamic Glaze – Drizzle with balsamic reduction for a tangy contrast.
✔️ Cheesy Twist – Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
✔️ Maple Flavor – Swap honey for pure maple syrup for a richer sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
🍗 Pair with Roasted Chicken – Complements grilled, baked, or roasted meats.
🥗 Serve with a Fresh Salad – A light arugula or spinach salad balances the richness.
🍽️ Great for Holidays – Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter feasts.
🥖 Side for Pasta or Rice – Pairs well with creamy pasta or herbed rice dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Roast the carrots, let them cool, and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes before serving.
❓ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
❓ Can I use frozen carrots?
Yes, but fresh carrots roast better. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry before roasting to prevent sogginess.
Final Thoughts
These Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots are an easy, flavorful, and elegant side dish that pairs beautifully with any meal. With their caramelized edges, rich buttery glaze, and touch of garlic, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
👉 Try them tonight and let us know how they turned out!