These brown sugar glazed carrots are sweet and shiny with a hint of warm buttery flavor. They make a perfect side dish for any meal!
Honestly, who knew carrots could be so tasty? I always feel like a kid again when I eat these—it’s like candy for dinner! 😂 I love serving them with roasted chicken.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: I love using baby carrots for their sweetness and tender texture. However, you can use regular carrots, just peel and cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a rich sweetness. If you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses, or just use honey or maple syrup for a different twist.
Unsalted Butter: I recommend using unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness in the dish. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or vegan butter works great here as well!
Chicken Broth: Using chicken broth instead of water enhances the flavor even more. If you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth is an excellent substitute.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Glaze on Carrots?
Getting that shiny, sweet glaze on your carrots is all about cooking them just right. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by melting the butter and combine it with brown sugar; this creates the base of your glaze.
- Add the carrots and coat them well before adding liquid. This step ensures they soak in the sweetness.
- Covering the skillet helps create steam, which cooks the carrots tenderly. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Once tender, remove the lid to let the sauce thicken. Keep stirring to prevent burning, and watch for that glossy finish!
These steps will help you create perfectly glazed carrots every time! Enjoy your cooking! 🥕✨
Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb baby carrots (or peeled and cut whole carrots)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 5 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy side for any meal. In total, you’ll need about 25-30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the unsalted butter. Let it melt, swirling it around the pan to coat the bottom evenly.
2. Create the Glaze:
Once the butter is melted, stir in the brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the sugar dissolves and you see some bubbles forming in the mixture. This is the base for your delicious glaze!
3. Coat the Carrots:
Add the baby carrots to the skillet. Toss them well in the buttery, sugary mixture to ensure they are coated evenly. This allows every carrot to soak up that sweet goodness!
4. Add Liquid and Simmer:
Now, pour in the water or chicken broth, covering the skillet with a lid. Bring it to a gentle simmer. This step helps cook the carrots evenly and steam them for tenderness.
5. Cook the Carrots:
Let the carrots simmer for about 8-12 minutes. You’ll want to stir them occasionally to make sure they cook evenly. The goal is for the carrots to be tender but still have a slight crunch to them!
6. Thicken the Glaze:
After the carrots are tender, remove the lid and continue to cook for a few more minutes. This helps the sauce thicken up and glaze the carrots beautifully. Keep stirring often to prevent anything from sticking or burning.
7. Final Touch and Serve:
Once the carrots are shiny and coated in the sticky sauce, take the skillet off the heat. Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if you like. Serve them warm and watch everyone enjoy this tasty treat!
Enjoy your sweet, buttery glazed carrots—they’re sure to be a hit alongside any meal!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but be sure to thaw them first for even cooking. Ideally, thaw them overnight in the fridge or run them under cold water until soft before adding them to the skillet.
How Do I Store Leftover Glazed Carrots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to help rehydrate them if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and the dish will be just as delicious and completely plant-based!
What Can I Serve with Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots?
These carrots pair wonderfully with roasted or grilled meats like chicken or pork. For a vegetarian option, serve them alongside quinoa or a hearty grain salad. They also make a lovely addition to holiday feasts!
