Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are an excellent side dish for everyday dinners. They are not only easy to make but also add a touch of sweetness to your meal. Carrots are healthy and packed with vitamins, making them a great choice for you and your family.

Making this recipe is quick, which is perfect for busy weeknights. In just a few simple steps, you can create a flavorful side that pairs well with many main dishes. The combination of brown sugar and butter gives the carrots a deliciously sweet glaze that both kids and adults love.

Additionally, this recipe requires only a few basic ingredients that are often found in your kitchen, making it a cost-effective option. You can prepare these glazed carrots in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for last-minute dinner plans.

The bright orange color of the carrots also adds a nice pop to your dinner plate, making your meal look inviting and tasty. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a casual dinner, these Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots make a wonderful addition. Enjoy the warm, sweet flavors that make this dish a comforting classic.

How to Make Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots

Making Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots is simple and quick. First, gather your ingredients: fresh carrots, brown sugar, butter, salt, and pepper. Start by washing and peeling the carrots. You can leave them whole or cut them into bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference.

Next, place the carrots in a pot of boiling water and cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crisp. Once cooked, drain the carrots and set them aside. In the same pot, melt a few tablespoons of butter over medium heat. After the butter has melted, add the drained carrots back into the pot.

Now, it’s time to add the brown sugar. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the carrots and stir well to coat them evenly. Allow the mixture to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring gently. This will help the brown sugar melt and form a lovely glaze on the carrots. Finally, season with a little salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Once everything is well mixed and the carrots are nicely glazed, remove them from the heat and serve warm.

How to Serve Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots

Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are a versatile side dish that pairs well with many main courses. They work beautifully with roasted meats, such as chicken and pork. You can also serve them alongside grilled fish or baked ham for a balanced meal.

To plate the glazed carrots, transfer them to a serving dish and arrange them neatly for an appealing look. Drizzling a bit of the remaining glaze from the pot over the top can create a beautiful shine and extra flavor.

For a touch of freshness, consider garnishing the dish with fresh parsley or chives. This adds a pop of color and a nice contrast to the sweet carrots. These glazed carrots can also be served warm or at room temperature, making them an excellent choice for potlucks or family gatherings.

No matter the occasion, Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are sure to impress your guests and make your dinner table more inviting.

How to Store Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots

Storing Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots is easy. If you have leftovers, let them cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer the carrots to an airtight container. You can keep the glazed carrots in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.

If you want to reheat them, simply place the desired amount of carrots in a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat them in the microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals until they are warmed through. Stir gently to distribute the heat evenly.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the glazed carrots. Place them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. The carrots can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat them, thaw the carrots in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them in a pot on the stove or in the microwave for a warm treat anytime you crave this delicious side.

Tips to Make Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots

To make the best Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots, here are some helpful tips. First, choose fresh, firm carrots. Look for vibrant orange carrots with no soft spots or blemishes. This will ensure a crisp texture and sweet flavor.

Next, be careful not to overcook the carrots. Boil them just until they are tender but still slightly firm. This will help maintain their bright color and crunch. After cooking, draining them well is crucial to avoid a watery glaze.

You can also adjust the sweetness of the glaze. If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a bit more brown sugar. For a more savory flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or a touch of balsamic vinegar.

Lastly, feel free to experiment with herbs and spices. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can give the carrots a warm, cozy flavor, especially in the fall and winter months. These small adjustments can make your Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots unique and special every time you cook them.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe. For instance, if you want to create a nutty flavor, add chopped pecans or walnuts when serving. You can also substitute honey or maple syrup for brown sugar to give a different sweetness. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the glaze.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots for this recipe?

Yes, baby carrots work well. Just reduce the boiling time since they are usually more tender.

Can I make these carrots ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the carrots and the glaze ahead of time and combine them just before serving.

What can I serve with glazed carrots?

Glazed carrots pair well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish. They complement many main dishes beautifully.

Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are a delicious and easy side dish that adds a touch of sweetness to your meals, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs fresh carrots
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp butter
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Instructions

Wash and peel the carrots, leaving them whole or cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
Place the carrots in a pot of boiling water and cook for 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crisp.
Drain the carrots and set them aside.
Melt butter in the same pot over medium heat.
Add the drained carrots back into the pot, then sprinkle the brown sugar over them and stir to coat.
Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring gently to melt the brown sugar and form a glaze.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, remove from heat, and serve warm.

Notes

For a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts when serving. You can also use honey or maple syrup as a substitute for brown sugar.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Boiling / Glazing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 200
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: carrots, brown sugar, side dish, healthy recipes, easy recipe