Glazed Carrots
Glazed Carrots are a simple, sweet, and colorful side dish that brightens up any meal. These carrots are cooked until tender and then coated in a glossy, buttery glaze that…
Tip: save now, cook later.Glazed Carrots are a simple, sweet, and colorful side dish that brightens up any meal. These carrots are cooked until tender and then coated in a glossy, buttery glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness and shine. The natural flavor of the carrots really shines through, making them a favorite for both kids and adults.
I love making glazed carrots because they’re quick to prepare but feel special enough for a holiday dinner or a weeknight treat. One of my favorite tricks is to add a little bit of orange juice or honey to the glaze, which makes the carrots extra tasty and gives them a subtle fruity note. Watching the glaze slowly caramelize in the pan is oddly satisfying!
These glazed carrots are perfect served warm right out of the pan. I like to pair them with roasted chicken or a simple grilled meat for a balanced plate full of color and flavor. Plus, the sweet and buttery taste usually means the carrots disappear pretty fast at the table, so I always make a little extra.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Fresh carrots are the star here! Choose medium-sized carrots for sweetness and tenderness. Baby carrots work too for convenience.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness. For a dairy-free option, try coconut oil or vegan butter.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives a lovely caramel flavor. You can swap it with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
Orange Juice or Honey (optional): These add a subtle citrus or extra sweetness. Lemon juice can also brighten the flavor nicely.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. If you don’t have parsley, chives or green onions can work too.
How Do You Achieve a Perfect Glossy Glaze on Carrots?
The secret to shiny glazed carrots is cooking them slowly and allowing the glaze to thicken without burning. Here’s how I do it:
- Melt butter and brown sugar together first, stirring until smooth.
- Add carrots and coat them well in the glaze.
- Cover and cook on low heat until tender, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Remove the lid and increase heat slightly to reduce the glaze until it’s shiny and thick.
- Stir gently and watch carefully to prevent burning – it thickens quickly!
- Finish by seasoning and garnishing with fresh herbs for contrast.
Patience is key! Slow cooking lets the natural carrot sweetness combine well with the glaze for a soft, shiny finish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking the carrots evenly and allowing the glaze to reduce.
- Spoon or spatula – helps you stir and coat the carrots without breaking them.
- Knife and cutting board – to peel and slice the carrots neatly on the diagonal.
- Measuring spoons – for accurate amounts of butter, sugar, and seasoning.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon for warm, spicy notes that complement the sweetness.
- Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end for a tangy, rich contrast to the glaze.
- Mix in cooked pearl onions or sautéed mushrooms to add more texture and a savory touch.
- Sprinkle toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for crunch and a nutty flavor.
How to Make Glazed Carrots?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (about 450g) carrots, peeled and sliced on the diagonal
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon orange juice or honey for a citrus or extra sweetness boost
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5-10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. In just around 20-25 minutes total, you’ll have warm, tender carrots glazed with a shiny sweet butter sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Carrots:
Peel the carrots and slice them diagonally into pieces about ¼ to ½ inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and look nice on the plate.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and let it dissolve into a smooth glaze.
3. Cook the Carrots:
Add the sliced carrots to the skillet and stir well to coat them with the glaze. Cover the pan, lower heat to medium-low, and cook for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until carrots are tender but not mushy.
4. Finish the Glaze:
Remove the lid and turn up the heat slightly. Stir gently as the glaze thickens and coats the carrots with a shiny finish. Season with salt and pepper. If you like, add orange juice or honey now for extra flavor.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Take the skillet off the heat. Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve warm, and enjoy a bright, sweet side dish.
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for Glazed Carrots?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots! Just thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before cooking. This helps the glaze stick better and prevents the dish from becoming watery.
How Do I 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 if needed to restore the glaze’s shine.
Can I Substitute Brown Sugar With Something Else?
Absolutely! Honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar work well as substitutes. Keep in mind these may add slightly different flavors or sweetness levels, so adjust to taste.
Can I Make Glazed Carrots Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the carrots and glaze a day ahead. Reheat slowly on the stove, stirring occasionally, and add a little butter or water if the glaze seems too thick or sticky.
