Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots

Carrots are wonderful just as they are, but when you roast them, magic happens. Not only do they get soft and tender in the oven, the baking also deepens their flavor and morphs their natural sugars into something sweet and caramelized. It’s a whole different experience than eating them when they’re pulled straight from the ground – they’re so much sweeter – and while I am absolutely happy to eat them roasted with nothing but a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, this garlic parmesan version is my favorite way to dress them up even more. It’s a master class in the balance of sweet and savory.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor. It takes a humble vegetable and transforms it into a gourmet side dish, perfect for any meal. The combination of garlic and parmesan brings a savory depth that complements the natural sweetness of the roasted carrots, making it a dish you’ll want to make over and over again.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Knife and cutting board
• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Oven

Ingredients

• 2 lbs carrots, peeled, scrubbed and chopped into 3-inch pieces
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with foil. Set this aside for now.
2. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss them until they’re fully coated with the butter mixture.
4. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the carrots and toss again to ensure an even coating.
5. Arrange the carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 25 minutes, stirring them halfway through, until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sprinkle the minced fresh parsley over the top before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the carrots are of uniform size for even roasting.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this allows the carrots to roast rather than steam.
• Feel free to adjust the garlic and parmesan to suit your taste preferences.

Additional Tips or Variations

If you’d like to add a bit of heat, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes over the carrots before roasting. You can also experiment with other herbs like rosemary or basil for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This recipe is rich in Vitamin A and provides a good amount of dietary fiber. The Parmesan cheese adds a touch of protein and calcium to the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots? Yes, baby carrots can be used, but you might need to adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.

Can I make this recipe vegan? Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots are an easy yet elegant side dish that will elevate any meal. I invite you to try this recipe for yourself and share your experiences. Whether it becomes a staple in your weeknight dinners or a star at your next holiday gathering, I’m sure it will delight anyone who tries it.