Glazed Carrots are a simple yet delightful side dish that brings a touch of sweetness and a beautiful shine to your plate. The carrots are cooked until tender and then coated in a glossy glaze made from butter and brown sugar, which brings out their natural sweetness and adds a little extra flavor. You get that perfect balance of soft, sweet, and buttery with every bite.
I love making glazed carrots because they’re so easy to prepare, and they always impress. A little tip I’ve learned is to slice the carrots evenly so they cook at the same pace, and keep the heat low when adding the glaze so it thickens nicely without burning. It’s one of those dishes where a few simple ingredients come together to make something really special.
These glazed carrots are my go-to when I want a comforting, colorful side that everyone enjoys. They pair beautifully with roasted chicken or a holiday roast, and their sweetness helps balance out savory meals. Plus, they’re a great way to sneak a little extra veggie goodness into the meal without any fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Fresh carrots are best for this dish, especially those that are firm and vibrant. I prefer slicing them diagonally as it looks nice and helps them cook evenly. Baby carrots can be used for convenience but may be less sweet.
Butter: Butter adds rich flavor and helps create that glossy coat. You can swap it for olive oil or a dairy-free spread if needed, but the flavor will be a bit different.
Brown Sugar: This gives the sweet glaze its classic taste and deep color. If you want less sweetness, try honey or maple syrup as a natural alternative.
Water or Orange Juice: Adding a bit of liquid helps steam the carrots, making them tender before glazing. Orange juice adds a nice citrus note, but plain water works well too.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of green color and fresh flavor. If parsley isn’t your favorite, try chopped chives or thyme for a subtle twist.
How Can I Get a Thick, Shiny Glaze on My Carrots?
The glaze makes this dish special, so it’s important to get it right. Here’s how I do it:
- After steaming the carrots until just tender, remove the lid to let the liquid evaporate.
- Cook uncovered on medium-low heat, stirring gently to keep the carrots coated.
- The mixture will thicken as the butter and sugar meld, creating a glossy finish.
- Keep a close eye and don’t rush this step — it takes a few minutes, but it’s worth it.
This slow reduction ensures the glaze clings nicely to every carrot slice without burning the sugar. If your glaze gets too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or saucepan – I like a wide skillet so the carrots cook evenly and have enough space to coat with glaze.
- Sharp vegetable peeler – helps peel carrots easily and smoothly.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board – for slicing carrots diagonally, making them look nice and cooking evenly.
- Measuring spoons and cup – for precise measurements of sugar, butter, and liquids.
- Stirring spoon or spatula – to gently toss and coat the carrots in the glaze.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness and flavor profile.
- Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or balsamic vinegar to add a tangy twist.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger during cooking for warm, spicy notes.
- Mix in chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch.
How to Make Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Core Ingredients:
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced on a diagonal
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup water or orange juice (optional for steaming)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and 10-15 minutes for cooking, making it a quick and easy side dish. Including the time to steam the carrots until tender and to reduce the glaze, you should have them ready in about 20-25 minutes total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Carrots:
Start by peeling your carrots. Then slice them diagonally into even pieces about 1/4 inch thick. This shape helps them cook quickly and look nice on the plate.
2. Melt Butter and Cook Carrots:
Heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the sliced carrots, stirring to coat them evenly with the butter.
3. Add Sugar and Steam:
Sprinkle the brown sugar over the carrots and stir gently to combine. Pour in the water or orange juice if you’re using it. Cover the pan and let the carrots steam for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep them from sticking and to cook evenly until they’re just tender.
4. Glaze and Season:
Remove the lid and continue cooking uncovered, letting the liquid reduce and the glaze thicken into a shiny coating on the carrots, about 3-5 minutes. Stir gently to make sure all carrots are glazed well. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh and colorful finish. Serve warm and enjoy your sweet, tender, and glossy glazed carrots!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before cooking. This helps prevent the glaze from becoming too watery and ensures even cooking.
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, adding a splash of water if the glaze has thickened too much.
Can I Substitute the Brown Sugar?
Absolutely! Honey or maple syrup works great as a natural sweetener and gives the glaze a slightly different flavor. Just add it during the glazing step in the same quantity.
Is It Necessary to Use Orange Juice?
No, orange juice is optional. It adds a nice citrus note, but you can simply use water for steaming the carrots if you prefer a more neutral taste.
