Oven Roasted Carrots

These oven roasted carrots are tender, slightly caramelized, and perfectly seasoned, making them an easy yet impressive side dish for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oven roasted carrots are incredibly simple to make, but the results are restaurant-worthy. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots, giving them a deliciously rich flavor and crisp-tender texture. They pair beautifully with almost any main dish and can be customized with your favorite seasonings or fresh herbs.

Ingredients

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

• Fresh carrots
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: garlic powder, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for extra flavor

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash, peel, and trim the carrots. Cut them into evenly sized sticks or rounds for even roasting.
3. Place the carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Arrange the carrots in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Remove from the oven and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people as a side dish. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and roasting time is 20–25 minutes.

Variations

• Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before roasting for extra sweetness.
• Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese right before serving.
• Use rainbow carrots for a colorful presentation.
• Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a fresh finish.
• Toss with a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave them in short bursts until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots for this recipe?

Yes, you can use baby carrots. Just make sure they are evenly sized for even roasting.

Do I have to peel the carrots?

Peeling is optional. If you prefer, just scrub them well to remove any dirt.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the carrots ahead of time and roast them just before serving for the best texture.

What other seasonings can I use?

Try cumin, smoked paprika, or curry powder for a different flavor profile.

How do I get the carrots crispy?

Roast at a high temperature and avoid overcrowding the pan so the carrots can caramelize instead of steaming.

Can I roast carrots with other vegetables?

Absolutely. Pair with vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts.

Are roasted carrots healthy?

Yes, they’re a nutritious side dish packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.

Can I freeze roasted carrots?

Freezing is not recommended as they can become mushy when reheated.

What’s the best oil to use?

Olive oil is classic, but you can also use avocado oil or melted butter.

Do I need to flip the carrots while roasting?

Flipping halfway through helps them cook evenly and develop caramelization on all sides.

Conclusion

Oven roasted carrots are a quick, easy, and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals. With minimal ingredients and endless ways to customize, they’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

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