Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots

These brown sugar honey glazed carrots are the perfect side dish for any meal! You only need 5 ingredients and 30 minutes to prepare this deliciously sweet and savory dish that will make your holiday meal even sweeter!

For more side dishes, try my honey sriracha brussels sprouts and bourbon sweet potato casserole.

Growing up, I HATED carrots. Perhaps that’s why I wear glasses. However, I began cooking with them as I got older and I must say – they really began to grow on me. This recipe for brown sugar-glazed carrots in particular was something I concocted last Thanksgiving.

I cut up some fresh carrots, added a little brown sugar, honey, and fresh herbs, and threw it in the oven. Well, when they came out of the oven, I immediately threw them on a serving dish and placed on the table. I literally blinked and they were gone.

Everyone loved them. Who would think – something so simple as carrots was such a hit. I mean, folks were raving about them. It was a mindless recipe – so I had to share it with you all because it’s not just delicious, it’s such an easy side dish recipe with only a few simple ingredients that everyone will love.

It’s a great side dish for your holiday table, thanksgiving or easter dinner, any special occasion, or even busy weeknights.

Best part – no stove top cooking required. As the carrots cook, the sugars caramelize and form a sweet glaze so no need to make anything in a pan prior to cooking. It’s a win win all around.

Ingredients

Carrots – I used regular carrots, peeled them, and sliced them into chunks. You can use any type of carrots that you like, including baby carrots or frozen carrots – just be mindful to not overcook the carrots depending on how thin or thick you slice them. If you prefer to use whole carrots, that’s also an option too!

Brown Sugar brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots really shines here so we only need a few tablespoons of brown sugar for these brown sugar glazed carrots. Light or dark brown sugar both work here.

Honey helps form the beautiful glaze for this easy carrot side dish. You can also use maple syrup if that’s what you have on hand.

Pecans make this simple side dish even better by adding a little crunch to the mix. It’s such a great addition.

Thyme adds a nice herby savory flavor to balance out the sweet carrots. You can also use fresh dill or fresh parsley for garnish.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Do not overcrowd your sheet pan. If needed, use two baking sheets. Overcrowding the pan won’t allow the carrots to cook thoroughly.
• Be mindful of the size of your carrots – larger carrots will take longer to cook than the little tender baby carrots.
• For more tender carrots, bake for the full 20 minutes. If you prefer carrots that have more of a crunch, bake for 12-15 minutes in the oven. I like to cook until fork tender, about 20 minutes in my oven.
• Bake the carrots on the top rack. This will allow them to cook quickly and evenly.

How to make Brown Sugar Carrots Glazed Carrots

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Skin and slice and place carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer.

Season with kosher salt and black pepper and drizzle a little olive oil on top. Add brown sugar, honey, thyme, and chopped pecans. Toss everything together and ensure that carrots and pecans are coated.

Bake in the oven on the top rack for 15-20 minutes, until carrots are caramelized and slightly softened.

What to serve with Glazed Carrots

This easy recipe is the most delicious side dish for any meal! It pairs exceptionally well with any main dish, especially the following:

• Herb Roasted Turkey with Citrus Glaze
• Collard Greens
• Roast Pork
• Pork Chops
• Baked Chicken Breast
• Oven Baked Pot Roast
• Pepper Steak