Glazed Carrots are a simple, sweet side dish that brings a lovely shine and a touch of honey or brown sugar to tender, cooked carrots. They’re the perfect way to add a bit of brightness and sweetness to any meal, with just a handful of ingredients and a quick cook time.
I love making glazed carrots whenever I want something easy but a little special to go with dinner. The way the glaze thickens and coats each carrot slice makes every bite taste just a bit more special. I usually stir in a little butter at the end to give it a nice smooth finish that everyone seems to enjoy.
These carrots go great alongside roasted chicken or pork, but honestly, they work well with just about any main dish. I often serve them with mashed potatoes and roast meat for a cozy, family-style meal that feels like a little celebration, even on weeknights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Fresh carrots are best for this recipe. I prefer slicing them diagonally for a larger surface area, which helps the glaze stick better. Baby carrots work well too if you’re in a pinch.
Butter: Butter adds richness and helps create that glossy shine. If you want a dairy-free option, use olive oil or coconut oil instead. Just remember the flavor will change slightly.
Brown Sugar or Honey: Both add sweetness and help form the glaze. Brown sugar gives a slightly deeper flavor, while honey adds floral notes. Maple syrup works great as a substitute too!
Water or Orange Juice: I like adding orange juice for a subtle citrus kick, but plain water is fine for steaming the carrots if you want a more neutral taste.
How Do You Make the Carrots Tender but Still Firm?
The key is to steam the carrots just enough to soften them without turning mushy. Here’s what I do:
- Add just a little water or orange juice to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Cover the pan so steam cooks the carrots evenly.
- Check after 5 minutes by poking with a fork—it should go in with slight resistance.
- Drain any extra liquid before adding butter and sugar to avoid a watery glaze.
Keeping an eye on the carrots during steaming means you get that perfect tender texture with a shiny sweet coating at the end!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I recommend a good-sized pan to cook the carrots evenly and make stirring easy.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board – helps you peel and slice the carrots quickly and safely.
- Measuring spoons and cup – for accurate amounts of butter, sugar, and liquids.
- Stirring spoon or spatula – makes it easy to coat the carrots with the glaze and prevent sticking.
- Optional: Tongs – handy for serving or turning the carrots for even glazing.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Maple syrup instead of brown sugar or honey adds a different sweetness and richer flavor.
- Include a dash of cinnamon or ginger for a warming spice twist.
- Add chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra aroma and flavor.
- Stir in a handful of toasted nuts or dried cranberries after cooking for texture and color.
How to Make Glazed Carrots?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced diagonally
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup water or orange juice (optional, for steaming)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 to 15 minutes total. You’ll spend 5 to 7 minutes steaming the carrots until tender, then another 3 to 5 minutes glazing them. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Steam the Carrots:
Place the sliced carrots in a large skillet and add just enough water or orange juice to cover the bottom of the pan. Cover the skillet and cook over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes. Check the carrots for tenderness—they should be soft but still firm to the bite.
2. Remove Excess Liquid and Add Glaze:
Remove the lid, carefully drain any leftover liquid, then add the butter and brown sugar (or honey) directly to the carrots. Stir frequently so the butter melts and the sugar coats the carrots evenly.
3. Season and Garnish:
Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until the carrots are glistening and glazed nicely. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh touch.
4. Serve Warm:
Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and enjoy! They make a beautifully sweet and buttery side that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or any main dish.
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before cooking to avoid a soggy glaze. Adjust the steaming time slightly since frozen carrots may cook faster.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, olive oil or coconut oil works well. The flavor will be a bit different, but you’ll still get a nice glossy finish on the carrots.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Glazed Carrots?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the glaze from drying out.
Can I Add Other Flavors to the Glaze?
Definitely! Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, some fresh thyme, or a splash of orange juice during the cooking for a tasty twist on the classic glaze.