Honey glazed carrots are a simple yet delicious side dish that perfectly balances sweetness and savoriness. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or just looking for a quick vegetable dish to complement your dinner, these carrots will add a touch of elegance and flavor to your meal. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the best honey glazed carrots, from ingredients to step-by-step instructions, variations, and helpful tips.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Requires only a few simple ingredients and takes less than 30 minutes.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors – The sweetness of honey complements the natural earthiness of carrots.
- Versatile Side Dish – Great for holiday meals, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep.
- Nutrient-Rich – Carrots are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
Honey Glazed Carrots (Sweet & Savory!)
Honey Glazed Carrots (Sweet & Savory!) is a simple yet delicious side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a savory honey glaze. The carrots are roasted or sautéed to tender perfection and then coated in a sticky mixture of honey, butter, and a touch of salt and pepper for a balanced flavor profile. This dish is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser for any meal. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
To make these irresistible honey glazed carrots, you’ll need:
- 1 lb 450g carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds or baby carrots
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil for a dairy-free version
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder optional, for extra flavor
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon optional, for a hint of warmth
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Carrots
- If using whole carrots, peel and slice them into evenly sized rounds. If using baby carrots, they are ready to go as is. Ensuring even thickness helps them cook evenly.
- Cook the Carrots
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter (or heat olive oil). Add the carrots and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
- Add Honey and Seasonings
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add honey, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cinnamon (if using). Stir well to coat the carrots evenly. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Garnish and Serve
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme for added freshness. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Tips for the Best Honey Glazed Carrots
- Use Fresh Carrots – Fresh, firm carrots offer the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness – Add more or less honey depending on your taste preference.
- Roast for More Depth – For a deeper caramelized flavor, roast the carrots in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of cooking them on the stovetop.
- Try Maple Syrup – Substitute honey with maple syrup for a slightly different sweet flavor.
- Add Nuts – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Notes
Sweetness: Adjust honey to taste for a sweeter or less sweet dish.
Flavor: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or rosemary for extra flavor.
Vegan Option: Use olive oil instead of butter for a vegan version.
Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Pairing: Great with roasted meats or as a side for vegetarian meals.
Flavor: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or rosemary for extra flavor.
Vegan Option: Use olive oil instead of butter for a vegan version.
Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Pairing: Great with roasted meats or as a side for vegetarian meals.
Serving Suggestions
Honey glazed carrots pair well with:
- Roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or beef
- Mashed potatoes or rice
- Green beans or Brussels sprouts
Storage and Reheating
- Storage – Keep leftover honey glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating – Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warm.
- Freezing – While possible, freezing can slightly change the texture. If freezing, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven for the best results.
Conclusion
Honey glazed carrots are an easy and flavorful side dish that brings a perfect mix of sweetness and savory goodness to any meal. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Try this recipe and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!