Name: Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lb (about 900 g) carrots, cut into 2–3″ pieces; 5 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp honey; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

These honey garlic butter roasted carrots are a sweet and savory side dish that I make when I want something easy but full of flavor. Roasted until tender and caramelized, the carrots are tossed in a rich buttery glaze infused with garlic and honey. It’s the kind of dish that steals the spotlight without trying too hard. Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of carrots while adding layers of flavor with just a few simple ingredients. The garlic butter adds richness, the honey provides a mellow sweetness, and roasting gives them a beautiful golden finish. It’s quick, affordable, and a hit at both weeknight dinners and holiday meals.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lb carrots, peeled and cut into 2–3 inch pieces
5 tablespoons butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons honey
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

I start by preheating my oven to 425°F (220°C).
While the oven heats, I melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Then I add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
I stir in the honey and mix until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Next, I toss the carrot pieces in the honey garlic butter, making sure they’re well coated. I season with salt and pepper.
I spread the carrots out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
I roast them for around 20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender and have some caramelized edges.
If I want an extra glaze, I sometimes return them to the pan and toss them once more in the warm butter sauce.
Just before serving, I sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap in maple syrup for honey if I want a deeper sweetness.
Baby carrots work well if I’m short on prep time.
A pinch of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper adds a nice twist.
I like to add parsnips or sweet potatoes for variety.
Fresh thyme or rosemary makes a nice herbal garnish instead of parsley.

storage/reheating

I store any leftover carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or pop them in the microwave until hot. I usually add a small pat of butter when reheating to bring back the shine and flavor.

FAQs

How do I keep the garlic from burning?

I always sauté the garlic for just 30 seconds, then stir in the honey quickly. This keeps it from browning too much and turning bitter.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often roast the carrots a day ahead and reheat them in a skillet before serving. A little extra butter helps freshen them up.

Do I have to peel the carrots?

Peeling is optional. I peel them for appearance and texture, but if they’re well-scrubbed, I don’t mind leaving the skin on.

What other vegetables can I use?

I’ve made this recipe with parsnips, sweet potatoes, and even chunks of butternut squash. They all roast beautifully with the honey garlic glaze.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, I just swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or olive oil, and it still tastes great.

Conclusion

These honey garlic butter roasted carrots are one of my go-to sides because they deliver big flavor with very little effort. I love how the sweetness of the honey and the richness of the butter elevate the humble carrot into something truly special. They’re easy enough for a quick dinner but always worthy of a special occasion.