Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry staples for a quick and easy preparation.
Flavorful: The combination of honey, garlic, and butter creates a harmonious blend of sweet and savory.
Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to vegetarian dishes.
Kid-Friendly: The sweet glaze makes it appealing to both children and adults.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 pounds carrots, peeled and cut into 2-3 inch pieces
⅓ cup butter
3 tablespoons honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼-½ teaspoon salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare Carrots: Trim the ends of the carrots and cut them into uniform pieces, approximately 2-3 inches in length.
Make Honey Garlic Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the honey until fully combined, then remove from heat.
Coat Carrots: Place the carrot pieces in a large mixing bowl. Pour the honey garlic butter over the carrots, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and toss until the carrots are evenly coated.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow for even roasting.
Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and lightly caramelized, stirring halfway through the cooking time.
Garnish and Serve: Once roasted, remove the carrots from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Prep Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes.
Total Time: About 35 minutes.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey garlic butter mixture for a subtle heat.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the butter mixture for added aroma and flavor.
Citrus Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or orange juice to the honey garlic butter for a bright, tangy note.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle toasted almonds or pecans over the roasted carrots for added crunch and richness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow the roasted carrots to cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, spread the carrots on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?

Yes, baby carrots can be used as a convenient alternative. Keep in mind that they may cook faster, so start checking for doneness around 15 minutes into roasting.

Do I need to peel the carrots before roasting?

Peeling is optional. If the carrots are young and tender, you can simply scrub them clean. For older, thicker-skinned carrots, peeling is recommended for a smoother texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this dish vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup or agave nectar in place of honey.

What main dishes pair well with Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots?

These roasted carrots complement a variety of main courses, including roasted chicken, grilled steak, baked fish, or plant-based proteins like lentil loaf or stuffed bell peppers.

Can I prepare the honey garlic butter sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before tossing with the carrots.

How can I prevent the garlic from burning during roasting?

Ensuring the garlic is finely minced and thoroughly mixed into the butter helps protect it during roasting. Stirring the carrots halfway through cooking also promotes even caramelization and prevents burning.

Is it possible to grill the carrots instead of roasting them?

Yes, you can grill the coated carrots over medium heat until tender and caramelized, turning occasionally to prevent charring.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely. Root vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or beets work well. Cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

How can I make the carrots more caramelized?

For deeper caramelization, increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) and monitor closely to prevent burning. Tossing the carrots with a bit of brown sugar can also enhance caramelization.