Easy Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots Recipe

Transform ordinary carrots into an extraordinary side dish with these Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots. Sweet, tender, and perfectly caramelized, this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots while adding a delicious brown sugar glaze. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner, a holiday feast, or a weeknight meal, these carrots are simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. They’re vibrant, flavorful, and pair beautifully with roasted meats or vegetarian mains.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and savory: Brown sugar enhances the natural flavor of the carrots.
• Simple prep: Only a few ingredients and minimal effort.
• Quick roasting: Cooks in under 30 minutes.
• Vibrant and healthy: Perfect side dish with natural color and flavor.
• Versatile: Great for holidays, weeknights, or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
• Optional: 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar for extra flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the carrots: Peel carrots and cut into uniform sticks for even cooking.
3. Toss with seasoning: In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and thyme if using. Add balsamic vinegar for a richer flavor if desired.
4. Roast: Spread carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized at the edges.
5. Serve: Remove from oven, allow to cool slightly, and serve as a sweet and savory side dish.

Tips & Variations

• Even roasting: Cut carrots into similar sizes to ensure uniform cooking.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, seasonal flavor.
• Add herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or rosemary before serving.
• Glaze variation: Drizzle with maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
• Make-ahead: Roast carrots ahead of time and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
• Freeze: Blanch carrots for 2–3 minutes, cool, then freeze in a single layer. Roast from frozen for 5–10 extra minutes.
• Avoid soggy carrots: Do not store in water as it will make them mushy.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Roasted meats: Turkey or chicken.
• Vegetarian mains: Serve alongside lentil loaf or grain bowls.
• Salads: Add roasted carrots to winter salads for sweetness.
• Dinner sides: Pair with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use baby carrots instead of large carrots?

Yes, baby carrots work well. Adjust roasting time to 15–20 minutes for smaller carrots.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan as long as you use plant-based sweeteners.

Can I use brown sugar substitutes?

Maple syrup or coconut sugar can be used for a slightly different flavor profile.

How do I prevent carrots from burning?

Toss with oil and spread in a single layer. Stir halfway through roasting and monitor closely at the end.

Ready to Make It?

These Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots are the ultimate sweet and savory side dish. Perfectly caramelized, tender, and packed with flavor, they’re easy to make and loved by everyone at the table. Pin this recipe to your Pinterest boards and elevate your next meal with these irresistible roasted carrots.

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