Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots

103 2 minutes read

When it comes to delightful side dishes, Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots stand out as a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is easy to prepare and a guaranteed hit at any meal, whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday gathering. Roasting carrots with honey, garlic, and butter elevates their natural sweetness, while the garlic adds a rich depth of flavor, creating a balanced dish that complements any main course. Not only do these carrots taste divine, but they also bring a vibrant color to your plate. Let’s dive into the details of creating this crowd-pleasing side dish and turn it into a must-have for your dining table.

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Baby Carrots	2 pounds	Small, tender carrots cook quickly and evenly, ensuring the perfect texture.
Butter	1/2 cup	Adds a creamy richness that balances the sweetness of the carrots.
Honey	1/4 cup	Provides caramelization and a hint of sweetness, pairing perfectly with garlic and butter.
Garlic Cloves, minced	4 cloves (or 2 tsp garlic powder)	Garlic adds a savory depth to balance the sweetness.
Salt	1/2 tsp	Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
Cracked Black Pepper	To taste	Adds a touch of heat and complexity.
Fresh Parsley, chopped	2 tbsp	Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish to brighten the flavors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures that the carrots roast to perfection, with tender interiors and crispy, caramelized edges.

Step 2: Prepare the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the honey and stir until the mixture is well combined. This honey butter mixture will become the luscious coating that gives these carrots their distinctive taste.

Step 3: Add Garlic for a Flavor Boost

Add the minced garlic (or garlic powder if using) to the pan with the honey butter. Cook the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This brief cooking time ensures the garlic infuses the sauce without turning bitter.

Step 4: Coat the Carrots in the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce

Add the baby carrots to the pan, stirring to ensure each carrot is thoroughly coated with the honey garlic butter sauce. Let the mixture simmer for a minute, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Season the Carrots

Add salt and cracked black pepper to taste, further enhancing the natural flavors of the carrots and the sauce. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, keeping in mind that a bit of salt and pepper goes a long way.

Step 6: Arrange and Roast

Transfer the coated carrots to a greased baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. This arrangement allows for even roasting. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.

Step 7: Broil for Extra Crispness

For an added touch of texture, turn on the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes. This step crisps up the edges of the carrots, adding a delightful crunch that complements the tender interior.