Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots

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Sweet, savory, and perfectly tender with crispy golden edges—Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots are the side dish that steals the show every time. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots, while the garlic and parmesan create a savory, cheesy crust that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just looking to elevate your vegetable game, this recipe delivers on flavor and ease.

What makes these carrots truly special is their versatility and crowd-pleasing nature. You only need a handful of simple ingredients, but the result is a dish that feels gourmet. With the nutty richness of grated parmesan, the punch of garlic, and a touch of olive oil, these roasted carrots are a perfect match for almost any main course. You’ll find yourself coming back to this one over and over again—it’s just that good.

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Ingredients for Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots

• 1 lb (450g) baby carrots or peeled and halved whole carrots
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

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Step 1: Prep the Carrots

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using baby carrots, give them a good rinse and pat them dry. For whole carrots, peel them and cut them lengthwise into evenly sized sticks or halves to ensure even roasting.

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Step 2: Season Everything

In a large mixing bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure each carrot is well coated so the flavors are evenly distributed. This garlic-oil mix will help the carrots develop a delicious caramelized edge in the oven.

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Step 3: Roast Until Golden

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Spread the carrots out in a single layer, giving them enough space so they roast rather than steam. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and golden brown on the edges.

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Step 4: Add the Parmesan

Once the carrots are nearly done, sprinkle the grated parmesan over them and return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This gives the cheese time to melt and form a slightly crispy, savory coating.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the carrots from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, and watch them disappear!

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Storage Instructions

Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots are just as delightful the next day, making them perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store them properly:

• Refrigerator: Allow the carrots to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a skillet for a quick crisp-up.
• Freezing (not ideal): While possible, freezing is not recommended as the carrots can lose their texture upon thawing. If needed, flash-freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 320mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on exact ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole carrots instead of baby carrots?

Absolutely! Just peel and slice them into similar sizes so they cook evenly.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, skip the parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast also gives a cheesy flavor.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any added cheese or toppings are also certified gluten-free.

4. What herbs go well with this?

Parsley is classic, but thyme, rosemary, or dill also pair beautifully with roasted carrots.

5. Can I prep these in advance?

You can cut and season the carrots in advance and refrigerate them, but roast them just before serving for the best texture.

6. How do I get a crispier finish?

Use a hot oven and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. You can broil them for 1–2 minutes at the end if desired.

7. Can I use pre-shredded parmesan?

You can, but freshly grated parmesan melts and crisps up better than the packaged kind.

8. Are these good for kids?

Definitely! The sweet roasted flavor and cheesy topping are a big hit with little ones.

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