Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme

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Tender, sweet, and richly caramelized, these Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme are everything you want in a side dish. Roasting brings out the natural sugars in carrots, while the honey glaze adds an irresistible sticky-sweet finish. With a hint of fresh thyme and a touch of char, they’re vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly simple to prepare.

This dish works just as beautifully for a weeknight dinner as it does for a holiday feast. It’s easy enough for beginners and fancy enough for guests. Whether you’re serving roast chicken or a vegetarian spread, these honey glazed carrots bring a touch of warmth and rustic charm to any table.


What Kind of Carrots Should I Use?

For this recipe, fresh whole carrots or large carrots sliced into thick coins work best. Baby carrots can be used for convenience, but they won’t caramelize as nicely as larger pieces. The goal is to have pieces that are thick enough to roast without going mushy, while still soaking up the glaze. Organic carrots often have more flavor, but any fresh, firm carrots will do the trick.


Ingredients for the Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme

Carrots – The star of the show! Naturally sweet and earthy, they roast beautifully to golden perfection.

Honey – Brings sweetness and helps create that luscious, sticky glaze that clings to every bite.

Olive Oil – Keeps everything moist and helps the carrots caramelize evenly.

Fresh Thyme – Adds a subtle herby aroma that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the carrots.

Salt & Pepper – Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.

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How To Make the Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme

Step 1: Prep the Carrots

Wash and peel the carrots, then slice them into thick, even rounds or diagonally for a rustic look. Try to keep the pieces uniform in size so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Glaze

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, chopped thyme leaves, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.

Step 3: Coat and Spread

Toss the carrots in the glaze mixture until well coated. Then, spread them out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Roast Until Tender and Golden

Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the carrots are tender, caramelized, and slightly charred at the edges.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, and if desired, drizzle with a touch more honey and sprinkle with extra thyme before serving.


How to Serve and Store Honey Roasted Carrots

These roasted carrots are best served warm straight out of the oven when their glaze is glossy and fragrant. If you’re preparing ahead, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes to regain that roasted texture.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They make a delicious addition to grain bowls, salads, or reheated as a side.


What to Serve With Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme?

Herb Roasted Chicken

The carrots’ sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory crispness of a well-seasoned roast chicken.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Balance the sweetness with a creamy, buttery mash—comfort food at its best.

Garlic Green Beans

A fresh and vibrant companion, especially when you want to keep the meal light.

Quinoa Pilaf

For a wholesome vegetarian option, serve over a fluffy bed of quinoa with cranberries or nuts.

Grilled Pork Chops

The sweet and herby notes complement the rich savoriness of pork chops beautifully.


Want More Vegetable Side Dish Ideas?

If you love these Honey Roasted Carrots, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:


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Tried it with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of chili flakes? Let me know how it turned out—drop your twists or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. You’ll find all kinds of delicious food ideas waiting for you there.


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Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme


  • Author: Julia Walton
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Looking for a vibrant, flavorful side that impresses with minimal effort? These *Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme* are your answer. They roast up tender with crispy, caramelized edges, coated in a sticky honey glaze and accented by the earthy aroma of thyme. Whether you need a quick vegetable side dish, a healthy snack, or a crowd-pleasing addition to your holiday dinner ideas, this recipe delivers every time. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it one of the easiest and most delicious roasted veggie options out there. Great for weeknights, elegant enough for entertaining.


Ingredients

2 pounds carrots

3 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Wash, peel, and slice the carrots into thick rounds or diagonals.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.

4. Toss the carrots in the mixture until evenly coated.

5. Spread the carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

7. Once caramelized and tender, remove from the oven.

8. Optionally, drizzle with extra honey and sprinkle with more thyme before serving.

Notes

For added depth, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the glaze before roasting.

To avoid mushy carrots, don’t overcrowd the pan—use two sheets if necessary.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 160
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: honey roasted carrots, glazed carrots, thyme carrots, vegetable side dish, roasted vegetables

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