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Flavorful Brown Butter Roasted Carrots with Maple Thyme Glaze

brown butter roasted carrots - featured image

A quick and easy side dish featuring roasted carrots glazed with a rich brown butter and maple thyme sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or halves
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel carrots and cut into uniform sticks about 3-4 inches long and ½ inch thick.
  2. In a mixing bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper until lightly coated. Spread evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  3. Roast carrots for about 20 minutes, tossing gently after 15 minutes to ensure even browning. Carrots should be tender and caramelized.
  4. While carrots roast, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Brown the butter until golden with a nutty aroma, then remove from heat.
  5. Stir in maple syrup, fresh thyme leaves, minced garlic, and lemon juice if using. Be careful not to burn the butter.
  6. Transfer roasted carrots to a bowl or serving dish and drizzle the brown butter maple thyme glaze over them. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  7. Serve warm, fresh from the oven or slightly cooled. Toss again before serving if glaze thickens.

Notes

Watch the butter carefully when browning to avoid burning. Use fresh thyme for best flavor. For vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Toss carrots evenly and avoid overcrowding the pan for best caramelization. Optional: sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts before serving for crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown butter, roasted carrots, maple glaze, thyme, easy side dish, holiday side, vegan option, gluten-free