Glazed Carrots
Glazed carrots are a sweet and tender side dish that’s a total classic. With their natural sweetness brought out by a simple glaze of butter and brown sugar, these carrots…
Tip: save now, cook later.Glazed carrots are a sweet and tender side dish that’s a total classic. With their natural sweetness brought out by a simple glaze of butter and brown sugar, these carrots get beautifully shiny and caramelized, making them taste like a little treat. They keep some of their crunch, which makes every bite lively and satisfying.
I love making glazed carrots when I want something quick but special to go with a family dinner. They’re super easy to throw together, and the sweet glaze always feels like a little touch of magic on the plate. A trick I use is adding a pinch of salt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley to balance out the sweetness, making the flavors pop even more.
Whenever I serve glazed carrots, friends and family always ask for seconds. They’re perfect alongside roasted meats or even tossed into a warm grain bowl. I sometimes make a big batch because these carrots even taste great the next day, cold or reheated. It’s definitely one of those simple dishes that turns a meal into something cozy and memorable.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Glazed Carrots
Carrots: Fresh, firm carrots work best here. Look for ones without cracks or soft spots. If you can’t find fresh carrots, frozen baby carrots can work too—just adjust cooking time since they’re softer.
Butter: Butter gives a rich, creamy glaze. If you want a dairy-free option, use olive oil or coconut oil. They add a different, but tasty, twist.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. You can substitute with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a natural alternative.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright herb flavor and lovely color. If unavailable, try chives, dill, or thyme. You can skip herbs altogether if preferred.
How Can You Get the Best Glaze on Your Carrots?
The secret to a shiny, sticky glaze is cooking the carrots just right and letting the sugar fully melt and coat them.
- First, slice carrots evenly so they cook uniformly.
- Start by sautéing them in butter until they’re slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add the brown sugar and stir gently but often to help it dissolve and caramelize without burning.
- Keep the heat medium to avoid scorching; patience is key for glossy caramelization.
- Finish off with a small splash of lemon juice or a pinch of cinnamon to lift the flavors if you like.
With these steps, you’ll get sweet, buttery glazed carrots that look beautiful and taste fantastic every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking the carrots evenly and allowing the glaze to thicken.
- Spoon or spatula – helps you stir the carrots gently without breaking them.
- Knife and cutting board – for peeling and slicing carrots into even pieces.
- Measuring spoons – to get the right amounts of butter, sugar, and seasonings.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon for warm, spicy notes that complement the sweetness.
- Stir in chopped fresh thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for an earthy herbal twist.
- Mix in toasted pecans or walnuts at the end to add crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Toss diced cooked bacon or pancetta for a salty contrast that pairs well with the sweet glaze.
How to Make Glazed Carrots?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Carrots and Glaze:
- 1 lb (450g) carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 tsp lemon juice or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and easy side dish perfect for busy days or last-minute dinners.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Carrots:
Peel the carrots and slice them into even 1/4-inch thick rounds. This helps them cook evenly and look nice on your plate.
2. Start Cooking:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it starts to foam. Add the sliced carrots and sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring now and then. You’ll want the carrots to start softening but still have a bit of crunch.
3. Make the Glaze:
Sprinkle the brown sugar over the carrots, then add salt and pepper. Stir gently to coat all the carrots evenly with the butter and sugar. Keep cooking for another 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sugar will melt and become a shiny glaze that covers the carrots. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Final Touches:
If you’d like, stir in a little lemon juice or a pinch of cinnamon to add a bright or warm note. Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color and a fresh taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your glazed carrots warm alongside your favorite main dishes. They’re sweet, buttery, and full of flavor!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess water before cooking. Since frozen carrots are softer, reduce the sautéing time slightly to avoid mushiness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Replace the butter with a plant-based margarine or olive oil, and use maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a vegan-friendly glaze.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Glazed Carrots?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or butter to keep them moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Glaze?
Absolutely! Vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or green beans work great. Just adjust cooking times based on the vegetable’s texture and size.