How to Make Roasted Parmesan Carrots: Simple Side Dish

Quick, delicious recipe for how to make roasted parmesan carrots. This simple side dish is a perfect companion to any meal.

If you’re looking for a savory, satisfying, and healthy side dish, look no further than Roasted Parmesan Carrots. This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of carrots, enhanced with the rich, salty flavor of Parmesan cheese. With just a few ingredients, you can prepare this delightful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or meal prep.

These roasted carrots come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a crowd-pleaser at any table. The combination of garlic and Parmesan adds depth to the flavor, while the avocado oil provides a nice crisp without being overpowering. Let’s dive into this recipe and explore why it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. It’s Simple and Quick
With a total time of just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The prep work is minimal—just cut the carrots, toss them with a few ingredients, and let the oven work its magic. You won’t have to babysit this recipe, leaving you free to focus on other parts of the meal.

2. Packed with Flavor and Nutrition
Not only do these Roasted Parmesan Carrots taste amazing, but they are also packed with nutrients. Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin K1, and antioxidants. Paired with Parmesan cheese, they provide a dose of protein and calcium. The garlic adds an extra layer of flavor and nutritional benefits, including immune-boosting properties. Plus, avocado oil is a heart-healthy fat that helps the carrots roast to crispy perfection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 lbs carrots, cut into sticks
• 1 ½ cups shredded Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons avocado oil (divided)
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Roasted Parmesan Carrots

Now that we have our ingredients, let’s walk through the process of making these delicious Roasted Parmesan Carrots. The key to a perfectly roasted carrot is ensuring they’re evenly coated and roasted at the right temperature for the right amount of time.

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. This high temperature will help the carrots roast to a beautiful golden brown.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced carrots, 2 tablespoons of avocado oil, shredded Parmesan, and minced garlic. Toss everything together until the carrots are well-coated.
3. Take 1 tablespoon of avocado oil and brush it across your baking sheet. This will help the carrots crisp up and prevent them from sticking.
4. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan across the baking sheet. This will create a crispy layer of cheese underneath the carrots.
5. Place the carrots cut-side down onto the baking sheet, making sure they are spread out evenly so they roast properly.
6. Roast in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the Parmesan forms a golden, crispy crust.
7. Once done, remove the carrots from the oven and serve immediately. For added flavor, dip the roasted carrots in ranch or your favorite dipping sauce. If reheating leftovers, an air fryer works well to maintain the crispiness.

Perfect Places to Serve Roasted Parmesan Carrots

Roasted Parmesan Carrots are versatile and can be served in a variety of settings. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, hosting a holiday gathering, or looking for a nutritious snack, these carrots fit the bill.

• Weeknight Dinners: Serve these carrots as a side dish with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. They’re an easy and nutritious addition to any meal.
• Holiday Side Dish: These carrots are elegant enough for a holiday table, offering a delicious alternative to traditional vegetable dishes like green bean casserole or roasted Brussels sprouts. Perfect for a Thanksgiving dinner.
• Meal Prep: Roasted Parmesan Carrots are perfect for meal prepping. Make a double batch and enjoy them throughout the week as part of your lunch or dinner.
• Snack or Appetizer: These carrots make for a great snack or appetizer. Pair them with a dipping sauce, like ranch or a garlic aioli, for an irresistible, bite-sized treat.

Make it a Meal

Now that you’ve found a veggie packed side, let’s complete the meal with other recipes for your meal planning.

Main Dish: Try this Ham and Pinwheels recipe. It is a simple casserole style dish that you can enjoy alongside these carrots.

Fruit or Salad: If you want even more vegetables, add a side salad. Add a side of apple slices, melon, blueberries, or any other fruit on the side to round out this meal.

Dessert: Bake a pan of these snickerdoodle blondies earlier in your day to have a perfectly spiced cinnamon and sugar blondie for dessert. Feel free to pair it with ice cream for a more indulgent treat.

Variations on Roasted Parmesan Carrots

While the original recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Spicy Parmesan Carrots: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture before roasting.
• Herbed Parmesan Carrots: For a more earthy flavor, toss the carrots with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley. These herbs complement the garlic and Parmesan perfectly.
• Honey-Glazed Parmesan Carrots: For a touch of sweetness, drizzle the carrots with honey before adding the Parmesan. The honey will caramelize during roasting, creating a sweet and savory combination.
• Vegan Version: Replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use a plant-based oil instead of avocado oil for a vegan-friendly option.

Can Roasted Parmesan Carrots Be Stored or Made Ahead?

Yes! Roasted Parmesan Carrots are great for making ahead and storing for later use.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the carrots and the Parmesan mixture a day ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to roast, simply follow the baking instructions.
• Storage: Store any leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness. Microwaving is an option, but it may cause the carrots to lose some of their crunch.

Common Questions About Roasted Parmesan Carrots

Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?
Yes, you can use baby carrots for this recipe. Just keep in mind that baby carrots may cook a bit faster, so you’ll want to check for doneness around the 15-minute mark.

What can I substitute for avocado oil?
Olive oil or coconut oil can be used as a substitute for avocado oil. Both oils provide a different flavor profile but work well for roasting.

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Absolutely! You can make Roasted Parmesan Carrots in an air fryer at 400°F for 15 to 18 minutes. Be sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting.

Can I freeze roasted carrots?
It’s not recommended to freeze roasted carrots as they tend to become mushy when thawed. However, you can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Roasted Parmesan Carrots are an easy, flavorful, and nutritious side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With a crispy Parmesan crust and tender carrots, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, holidays, or even meal prep. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, these carrots are bound to impress.

Ready to try this recipe for yourself? Head to your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the savory goodness of Roasted Parmesan Carrots. Don’t forget to share your experience and tips in the comments below! For more delicious and easy recipes, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates!

More Side Dishes to Try:

• Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
• Slow Cooker Creamed Corn
• Slow Cooker Baked Beans

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