Honey Glazed Carrots
Sometimes, simple is just what you need, right? These Honey Glazed Carrots are easy but packed with flavor. You get that sweet honey coating, a little buttery richness, and just a hint of thyme to keep things interesting. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or whenever your regular carrots could use a little upgrade!
Carrots are always around, aren’t they? They’re a great veggie to keep on hand, and this recipe makes them a little special. The honey brings out their natural sweetness, and the butter adds a cozy richness. It’s the kind of side dish that fits right in at a fancy holiday meal but is easy enough for any night of the week.
Why you’ll love these Honey Glazed Carrots
Carrots Just Got Interesting!
I started making this when I was bored with plain old steamed carrots. Adding honey and a little thyme turned them into a favorite side dish that always gets a thumbs-up. It’s a game-changer when you want something easy but a little special without breaking a sweat in the kitchen!
Ingredients Needed for Honey Glazed Carrots
- Carrots: Get the freshest carrots you can. If they’re big, slice them into even pieces so they cook at the same time.
- Butter: This adds that classic, rich flavor. If you’re dairy-free, you can swap for olive oil or a plant-based butter.
- Honey: Sweetens things up and gives a caramelized edge to the carrots. Go for a mild honey here so it doesn’t overpower everything.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic, but important. Salt brings out the natural sweetness, and a bit of black pepper adds a touch of warmth.
- Thyme: Fresh thyme is amazing here, but dried will work in a pinch! It brings in that nice, earthy note.
How to make Honey Glazed Carrots
**For more detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card below.**
peel and slice the carrots.
Boil the carrots in salted water until they’re tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and add honey and thyme, cooking until the glaze thickens.
Toss the carrots back in, season with salt and pepper, and stir to coat. Let them cook a few more minutes to soak up the flavors.
Variations
- Spicy Honey Carrots: Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a sweet-and-spicy twist.
- Maple-Glazed Carrots: Swap honey for maple syrup to give a deeper, richer sweetness.
- Citrus Honey Glaze: Add a splash of orange juice or a bit of orange zest to brighten up the glaze.
- Rosemary Honey Carrots: Use rosemary instead of thyme for a more piney flavor. It pairs well with the sweetness of the honey.
- Savory Garlic Carrots: Toss in some minced garlic with the butter for a garlic-sweet combo.
Serving Suggestions
- With any protein: The honey glaze and thyme pair perfectly with meaty dishes! You can try it with these Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops for a balanced meal.
- For the Holiday Table: A great addition to holiday spreads with other veggies and hearty main dishes.
- Alongside a casserole: These carrots add color and sweetness to any savory dish. Try them with my favorite Sloppy Joe Casserole.
- With a Toasted Nut Crunch: Add toasted pecans or almonds for a crunchy, nutty finish.
- As a Topping for Salads: Leftover glazed carrots are delicious in salads for a pop of color and flavor. They would be great on top of my Warm Brussels Sprout Salad.
Storage and Freezing
- How should I store Honey Glazed Carrots?
Keep leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They’re easy to reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Can I freeze Honey Glazed Carrots?
Let the carrots cool completely, then freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to use them, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet with a little butter or honey.
Don’t forget to pin this for later!
Tips & Tricks
- Don’t Overcook the Carrots: They should be tender but hold their shape.
- Use a Large Skillet: This lets the carrots sit in a single layer so the glaze coats them evenly.
- Add Butter First, Then Honey: Let the butter brown a little for extra flavor before adding the honey.
- Taste as You Go: You can adjust the sweetness and seasoning after tasting the glaze.
- Choose Fresh Thyme if Possible: It really adds a bright touch, but dried thyme works if that’s what you have.
Recommended
More Yummy Sides
FAQ
Honey Glazed Carrots
Equipment
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Colander
- 12” Skillet
Ingredients
- 2 pounds carrots peeled and sliced on a diagonal
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt divided
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme plus extra for garnish
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Peel the carrots and slice them diagonally into similar-sized pieces. Cut the thinner ends into 1-inch pieces and the thicker ends into about ½-inch slices.
- Place sliced carrots in a large skillet or pot. Add salt and enough water to cover the carrots. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat. Cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Drain carrots and set aside. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat, cooking until it just starts to brown, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in honey and thyme, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return carrots to the skillet. Add remaining ½ teaspoon salt and pepper, stirring to coat. Cook an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and serve warm.