why make this recipe
Transform a humble bag of carrots into a vibrant, sweet, and savory side dish that steals the show with these Easy Glazed Carrots. This recipe is the ultimate proof that simple ingredients, treated with care, can yield spectacular results. In about 15 minutes, you can have tender-crisp carrot coins or sticks coated in a shiny, buttery glaze infused with honey, a hint of brown sugar, and fresh herbs. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing side that pairs effortlessly with everything from a weeknight roast chicken to an elaborate holiday ham. Created by Emma steph, this guide ensures your carrots are perfectly cooked and your glaze is perfectly balanced—never cloying, always delicious. Get ready to make the definitive Easy Glazed Carrots.
how to make Easy Glazed Carrots
Ingredients:
- Carrots
- Butter
- Brown sugar
- Salt
- Pepper
- Water
- Parsley (optional for garnish)
Directions:
- Peel and slice the carrots into evenly sized pieces.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add the carrots, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in enough water to cover the bottom of the skillet.
- Cover and cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
- Remove the lid and continue cooking until the liquid is reduced and the carrots are glazed.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve.
The Star: The Carrots
- Fresh Carrots: One pound of fresh carrots, peeled and cut into uniform coins or sticks, ensures even cooking. Baby carrots are a convenient shortcut, but whole carrots often have better flavor.
The Glaze Trinity
- Butter: Unsalted butter provides the rich, velvety base for the glaze and helps it emulsify into a cohesive sauce.
- Sweeteners: A combination of honey and a touch of light brown sugar offers depth. The honey provides floral notes and shine, while the brown sugar adds a subtle molasses richness to your Easy Glazed Carrots.
- Liquid & Seasoning: A small amount of water or broth helps steam the carrots initially. Salt enhances all the flavors, and a splash of fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar at the end is the secret weapon—it brightens the dish and balances the sweetness perfectly.
The Flavor Finish
Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, chives, or dill add a pop of color and fresh flavor. A pinch of dried thyme works wonderfully too. For another simple, vegetable-forward side, try our Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage for a heartier option.
how to serve Easy Glazed Carrots
Serve Easy Glazed Carrots warm as a side dish. They pair well with roasted meats, grilled fish, or hearty vegetarian meals. You can place them on a serving dish and sprinkle with extra parsley for added color and presentation.
how to store Easy Glazed Carrots
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for about 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving again.
tips to make Easy Glazed Carrots
- Cut carrots uniformly for even cooking.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar according to your taste.
- For a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, try using olive oil instead of butter.
variation
You can add other vegetables like green beans or peas to the skillet for more color and flavor. For a more complex taste, consider adding minced garlic or a splash of orange juice.
FAQs
Can I use frozen carrots instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots. Just note that they might release more water when cooking, so adjust cooking time as needed.
What can I serve with Easy Glazed Carrots?
They go well with grilled chicken, beef, or pork. You can also serve them with baked tofu or over a grain like quinoa.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glazed carrots in advance and reheat them before serving. Just keep in mind that the glaze may thicken as they cool.
How can I make these savory instead of sweet?
For a savory version, omit the honey and brown sugar. Glaze the carrots with butter, a splash of balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Conclusion: The Side Dish That Outshines the Main
Easy Glazed Carrots are a testament to the power of a great side dish. They require minimal effort and investment but deliver maximum flavor and visual appeal. This recipe provides a flawless technique that you can adapt with different herbs and spices, making it a foundational side in your cooking repertoire. Once you see how quickly these vibrant, glossy carrots disappear from the dinner table, you’ll know you’ve found a keeper. This simple recipe for Easy Glazed Carrots is guaranteed to become a regular on your menu. in the end this is our pinterest account for more ideas.
Easy Glazed Carrots
Ingredients
Carrots
- 1 pound Carrots Peeled and sliced
- 3 tablespoons Butter Melted in the skillet
- 2 tablespoons Brown sugar Adjust according to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Pepper
- 1/4 cup Water Just enough to cover the bottom of the skillet
- 1 tablespoon Parsley Optional for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Peel and slice the carrots into evenly sized pieces.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Cooking
- Add the carrots, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Pour in enough water to cover the bottom of the skillet.
- Cover and cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
- Remove the lid and continue cooking until the liquid is reduced and the carrots are glazed.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.