Print

Maple Roasted Carrots with Thyme: 5-Ingredient Easy Side

maple roasted carrots with thyme - featured image
Print Recipe

A simple, sweet, and savory side dish featuring tender roasted carrots glazed with pure maple syrup, butter, and fresh thyme. This easy recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and is perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds fresh carrots, cut into 1/2-inch thick coins or 1/4-inch thick batons
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, stripped from stems
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash the carrots thoroughly. If using large carrots with thick skin, peel them. Trim off the green tops and root ends.
  3. Cut the carrots into uniform pieces, such as 1/2-inch thick coins or 1/4-inch thick batons, to ensure even cooking.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, pure maple syrup, olive oil, chopped fresh thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
  5. Add the cut carrots to the bowl and toss gently but thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated with the glaze.
  6. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper. Spread the carrots out in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow for proper roasting and caramelization.
  7. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through (around 10-12 minutes), pull the pan out and stir or flip the carrots to ensure even browning.
  8. Check for doneness by piercing a carrot with a fork; it should be tender with caramelized, browned edges. If needed, roast for an additional 5 minutes, covering loosely with foil if edges are browning too quickly.
  9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes to allow the glaze to set slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving immediately.

Notes

Uniform cuts are crucial for even cooking. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this will cause the carrots to steam rather than roast. If using salted butter, reduce or omit the added salt. For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil or plant-based butter. Fresh thyme is recommended over dried for better flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted carrots, maple carrots, thyme carrots, easy side dish, healthy vegetables, gluten-free side, vegan side dish, weeknight dinner, caramelized carrots

Find it online: https://sizzlesprout.com/maple-roasted-carrots-with-thyme-5-ingredient-easy-side/