One of the easiest yet most elegant sides you can bring to the holiday table is Thanksgiving Roasted Carrots with Honey. I still remember serving these at a family dinner—the natural sweetness of the carrots caramelized in the oven, with just the right glaze of honey, had everyone reaching for seconds. They’re colorful, flavorful, and a perfect balance to all the rich Thanksgiving dishes.
Ingredients
2 lbs carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or left whole if small
3 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp honey
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place carrots on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and cinnamon if using. Toss to coat evenly. Spread carrots in a single layer. Roast 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway, until carrots are tender and caramelized. Transfer to serving dish and garnish with parsley before serving warm.
Substitutions
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor. Swap balsamic vinegar with orange juice for a citrusy touch. Add thyme or rosemary for an herby twist. Replace olive oil with melted butter for richness.
Equipment
Large baking sheet
Mixing bowl
Spatula
Sharp knife
Oven
Storage
Refrigerator: Store roasted carrots in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as texture becomes mushy.
Reheating: Warm in oven at 350°F until heated through.
Top Tips
Cut carrots evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. Roast at high heat for caramelized edges. Don’t overcrowd the pan—give carrots room to roast, not steam. Finish with fresh herbs for color and freshness.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, roast them earlier in the day and reheat before serving.
Can I use baby carrots? Absolutely, just adjust roasting time as they cook faster.
Are these too sweet? The honey enhances natural sweetness, but the vinegar or lemon balances it.
What pairs well with roasted carrots? Turkey, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole complement them perfectly.