Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots are a simple, sweet, and flavorful side dish that bring out the best in those everyday carrots. These carrots are roasted until tender and caramelized, then coated with a sticky glaze made from honey and garlic, giving them a lovely balance of sweetness and a little bit of zing from the garlic. The roasting process adds a rich, deep flavor that feels like a little comfort on every bite.
I love making these carrots on busy weeknights because they’re so easy and come together quickly. Just toss the carrots with the honey garlic mixture, pop them in the oven, and let the kitchen fill with the most inviting aroma. I always find myself sneaking a piece or two while they’re still warm—they’re just that good! It’s a great way to get kids and picky eaters excited about their veggies too.
Serving these carrots alongside roasted chicken or a simple grain bowl makes the whole meal feel cozy and complete. Sometimes, I sprinkle a touch of fresh parsley or a pinch of black pepper on top for just a little extra color and flavor. It’s a small dish that often turns into the favorite thing on the plate, and I’m always happy when there are leftovers to enjoy the next day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are great for quick roasting since they’re already small and tender. If you only have regular carrots, peel and cut them into sticks similar in size for even cooking.
Honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and helps caramelize the carrots. If you prefer, maple syrup or agave nectar work as good substitutes, especially if avoiding honey.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice punch of flavor here. Minced or pressed garlic works best. Garlic powder could be used in a pinch but won’t have the same fresh taste.
Olive oil: Olive oil helps roast and coat the carrots evenly. You can swap it with avocado oil or any neutral oil if you want a lighter taste.
How Do I Get Perfectly Caramelized Carrots Without Burning?
Roasting carrots so they’re tender and caramelized without burning can be tricky. Here’s my approach:
- Cut carrots evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Toss them well in honey and oil to coat every piece – this helps caramelize without drying out.
- Roast at a high temperature (425°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway to brown all sides.
- Keep an eye near the end to avoid burning. The carrots should be tender with golden-brown edges but not blackened.
I find patience is key—letting the carrots slowly caramelize while roasting creates the best flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for roasting carrots evenly and getting those nice caramelized edges.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Mixing bowl – great for tossing the carrots with honey, garlic, and oil to coat them well.
- Measuring spoons – for accurate amounts of honey, oil, salt, and pepper.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – useful for stirring and flipping carrots halfway through roasting.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or cayenne for a little heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary before roasting for an herbal aroma that brightens the dish.
- Swap honey for maple syrup to introduce a deeper, woodsy sweetness that pairs well with roasted veggies.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts like pecans on top before serving for added crunch and texture.
How to Make Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Carrots and Glaze:
- 1 pound baby carrots (or regular carrots peeled and cut into sticks)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 to 25 minutes to roast the carrots until tender and caramelized. So, in under 35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or lightly grease it to keep the carrots from sticking.
2. Mix the Honey Garlic Glaze:
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, honey, and the minced garlic. Whisk them together until you have a smooth mixture.
3. Coat the Carrots:
Add the carrots to the bowl and toss well, making sure every piece is evenly coated with the honey garlic glaze.
4. Roast the Carrots:
Spread the coated carrots on the lined baking sheet in a single layer. Sprinkle the salt and pepper evenly over them. Roast in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through, stir or flip the carrots so they roast evenly. They should be tender and slightly caramelized when done.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Take the carrots out of the oven, transfer them to a serving dish, and drizzle any glaze left on the baking sheet over the top. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a bright finish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but thaw them completely and pat them dry before roasting to avoid extra moisture that can prevent caramelization.
How Should I Store Leftover Honey Garlic 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 their texture and flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a plant-based sweetener.
What Can I Serve with Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots?
These carrots pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled meats, or can be added to grain bowls and salads for extra flavor and color.
