Sweet, buttery Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots made with fresh carrots, brown sugar, and butter. A quick and easy side dish for any meal!
Do you have a dish that just feels like home? For me, it’s these Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots. I didn’t always think of carrots as anything exciting—let’s be honest, they were just the veggie my mom insisted we eat growing up. But everything changed the day she added butter and brown sugar.
I remember it vividly. It was Thanksgiving, and I was maybe 10 years old. The kitchen smelled amazing—like sugar melting into caramel with a hint of buttery magic. When the carrots hit the table, glistening and golden, I couldn’t resist. One bite, and I was hooked. Who knew carrots could taste that good? From then on, they became a staple at every family gathering.
Now, whenever I make them, it feels like a little nod to those moments around the dinner table. My kids love them just as much as I did (probably because they taste more like dessert than veggies), and I’ve even had friends request the recipe after trying them at a dinner party. They’re simple, nostalgic, and honestly, kind of a lifesaver when you need a quick side that looks fancy but takes zero effort.
Why You’ll Love This Glazed Carrots With Brown Sugar And Butter Recipe?
- Quick and Foolproof: You only need 20 minutes—perfect for last-minute dinner plans.
- Sweet and Savory: The buttery glaze makes these carrots irresistible, even for veggie skeptics.
- Minimal Ingredients: Just five simple items you probably already have.
- Versatile: Works for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
- Family-Approved: Even picky eaters won’t say no to these!
Ingredient Notes:
Here’s why these ingredients work so well together (and a few tips to make them shine):
- Carrots: Fresh, whole carrots are ideal for this recipe. Slice them evenly so they cook consistently. Baby carrots work too if you’re short on prep time.
- Butter: This is where the magic happens. It melts into the brown sugar, creating a rich, silky glaze. Unsalted butter is best, but salted works if that’s what you’ve got.
- Brown Sugar: The star of the show! It gives the glaze a deep, caramelized sweetness that pairs perfectly with the natural flavor of carrots.
- Salt: A tiny pinch makes the sweetness pop and balances the whole dish.
- Parsley (Optional): Adds a pop of green and a hint of freshness. Not a dealbreaker if you skip it, but it’s a nice finishing touch.
How To Make Glazed Carrots With Brown Sugar And Butter?
Making Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots is so easy, you’ll feel like a pro in the kitchen. Here’s the step-by-step:
Step 1: Cook the Carrots
Start by tossing your sliced carrots into a large pan. Add about 1 ½ cups of water—enough to partially cover the carrots—and bring it to a simmer. Let them cook for 8–10 minutes, or until they’re tender but not mushy. (A quick fork test will let you know if they’re ready.) Once they’re done, drain any excess water.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
With the carrots still in the pan, add the butter, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together over medium heat. As the butter melts and the sugar dissolves, the glaze will start to coat the carrots beautifully.
Step 3: Coat the Carrots
Keep cooking for another 4–5 minutes, stirring often so the glaze doesn’t stick to the pan. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce thickens and clings to the carrots like a shiny, sweet coating.
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Step 4: Finish with Parsley (Optional)
If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some chopped parsley over the top just before serving. It adds a little color and a hint of freshness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the carrots to a serving dish and get ready to watch them disappear. They’re best served warm, so dig in while they’re fresh!
Storage Options:
Leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm them up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water if the glaze thickens too much in the fridge.
- Freeze: While not ideal, you can freeze these carrots for up to a month. Just know the texture might be softer when reheated.
Variations and Substitutions:
Feeling creative? Here are some ways to make this recipe your own:
- Add a Spicy Kick: A pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes gives these carrots a sweet-and-spicy twist.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Swap the brown sugar for honey for a lighter, floral sweetness.
- Citrus Infusion: Add a squeeze of fresh orange juice and a bit of zest for a tangy upgrade.
- Herb Swap: Try thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for a more savory vibe.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly version.
What to Serve with Glazed Carrots With Brown Sugar And Butter?
These glazed carrots are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with just about anything. Here are a few ideas:
- Roast Chicken: The sweet glaze complements the savory chicken perfectly.
- Holiday Ham: A classic combo that never fails.
- Grilled Salmon: The richness of the fish balances the sweetness of the carrots.
- Mashed Potatoes: Because more comfort food is always a good idea.
- Fresh Bread: Use it to soak up every last bit of that buttery glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use baby carrots instead of slicing fresh ones?
Totally! Baby carrots are a great time-saver and work just as well.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
White sugar mixed with a teaspoon of molasses is a perfect substitute.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Cook and glaze the carrots as directed, then reheat them in a skillet with a splash of water before serving.
So, what do you think? Ready to turn a humble veggie into the star of your dinner table? These Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are sweet, buttery, and downright addictive. I’d love to hear how yours turn out—drop a comment and let me know if they became a new family favorite!
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Glazed Carrots With Brown Sugar And Butter
Ingredients
- 1/4 c. butter
- 1/4 c. brown sugar
- 1 1/2 pounds carrots - peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley optional
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a large pan, place the carrots. Then, pour in 1 1/2 cups of water. Let the water simmer and cook the carrots for approximately 8 to 10 minutes or until soft.
- When done, drain the excess water.
- To the pan with the carrots, add the butter, brown sugar, and salt. Toss to mix and coat the carrots.
- Continue to cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until the sauce has formed, stirring often.
- If desired, sprinkle the glazed carrots with some parsley.
- Serve right away. Enjoy!
Notes
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I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
