Description
Tender carrots are coated in a buttery brown sugar glaze for a quick, comforting side dish that’s perfect for weeknights or holiday dinners. This easy stovetop recipe delivers sweet, glossy carrots in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch coins or sticks (or use baby carrots)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or parsley, chopped
- Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (swap for half the brown sugar)
- Optional: Pinch of lemon zest
Instructions
- Peel carrots and slice into 1/4-inch coins or sticks. If using baby carrots, rinse well.
- In a medium saucepan or skillet, melt butter over medium heat until bubbly and fragrant (do not brown).
- Add carrots and stir gently to coat in butter. Cook for 2-3 minutes until carrots brighten in color.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over carrots. Stir until sugar melts and carrots are glossy. Add salt and black pepper.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until carrots are fork-tender but not mushy. If glaze thickens too much, add a splash (about 2 tablespoons) of water and stir.
- Check texture by piercing a carrot with a fork. If still firm, cook another 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in optional fresh herbs or ground cinnamon before serving, if desired.
- Transfer glazed carrots to a serving dish and spoon extra glaze over the top. Garnish with more herbs or flaky salt if desired.
Notes
For vegan/dairy-free, use plant-based butter or olive oil. Slice carrots evenly for best results. If glaze separates, remove from heat and stir vigorously. Add a splash of lemon juice or maple syrup for flavor variation. Prep carrots ahead for quick assembly. Don’t overcrowd the pan for even glazing.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1/2 cup per serving
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 16
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 1
Keywords: brown sugar glazed carrots, glazed carrots, easy side dish, holiday carrots, stovetop carrots, sweet carrots, vegetable side, gluten-free, vegetarian