Ingredients
Carrots
- 1 ½ pounds whole carrots, peeled as desired
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt, 1 heaping teaspoon
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Brown Butter Honey Drizzle (Optional)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and place a rack in the center position. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper if desired for easier cleanup.
- Slice the Carrots: Trim the carrot ends and use an oblique/roll cut by slicing the carrot at a 45-degree angle, then rolling it a third to a half turn and slicing again. This produces triangular-shaped pieces with flat edges that caramelize beautifully. Alternatively, slice carrots on a bias into ½-inch oval rounds.
- Season the Carrots: Arrange the sliced carrots on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly. Arrange carrots with flat edges facing down to maximize caramelization, spacing them so they are not crowded.
- Roast the Carrots: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the carrots halfway through. When flipping, ensure the opposite flat side faces down to promote even browning. Roast until carrots are golden brown, tender, and deeply caramelized on the edges.
- Prepare Brown Butter Honey Drizzle (Optional): With 5 to 10 minutes left of roasting, melt butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in honey and fresh thyme. Set aside.
- Serve: Drizzle the warm brown butter honey mixture over the roasted carrots and gently toss to coat. Garnish with extra fresh thyme or finely chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your caramelized roasted carrots!
Notes
- For best caramelization, space carrots apart and keep flat sides down during roasting.
- The brown butter honey drizzle is optional but adds a rich, sweet, and herbal flavor.
- Use fresh thyme for the drizzle to maximize aromatic flavor.
- Parchment paper-lined baking sheets simplify cleanup.
- Carrot peel can be left on or removed based on preference.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
