Glazed Carrots

published Oct 20, 2023
Glazed Carrots Recipe

This classic side comes together in minutes.

Serves4

Prep5 minutes

Cook10 minutes to 15 minutes

Jump to Recipe
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Overhead view of glazed carrots in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Credit: Photo: Alex Lepe ; Food Stylist: James Park

Glazed carrots are a classic side dish that will never go out of style. This simple recipe comes together in 20 minutes or less and delivers a sweet and savory vegetable that pairs well with just about anything, from your weeknight chicken to your Thanksgiving turkey.

Key Ingredients for Glazed Carrots

These glazed carrots are a simple, three-ingredient (not including salt, pepper, and water) affair. You’ll need the following:

  • Carrots
  • Unsalted butter
  • Light or dark brown sugar

How to Make Glazed Carrots

Making glazed carrots is super simple and only requires two steps (after you peel and cut them).

  • Sauté sliced carrots in melted butter on the stovetop before adding water and brown sugar, which forms the glaze.
  • Cook the carrots in the glaze for six to eight minutes until they’re tender and glossy.
Credit: Photo: Alex Lepe ; Food Stylist: James Park

What to Serve with Glazed Carrots

Glazed carrots are a versatile side dish. Here are a few of our favorite mains to pair with them.

Glazed Carrots Recipe

This classic side comes together in minutes.

Prep time 5 minutes

Cook time 10 minutes to 15 minutes

Serves 4

Nutritional Info

Ingredients

  • 1 pound

    carrots (about 4 medium)

  • 1 tablespoon

    unsalted butter

  • 1/2 teaspoon

    kosher salt

  • 1/8 teaspoon

    freshly ground black pepper

  • 1.2 cup

    water

  • 1 tablespoon

    packed light or dark brown sugar

  • Chopped fresh parsley leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. ​​Peel and trim 1 pound carrots. Slice crosswise on a slight diagonal 1/4-inch thick (about 2 1/2 cups).

  2. Melt 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the carrots and season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the carrots start to soften, about 5 minutes.

  3. Add 1/2 cup water and 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces to a glaze and the carrots are just tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Serve garnished with chopped fresh parsley leaves if desired.

Recipe Notes

Make ahead: The carrots can be peeled and sliced up to 1 day ahead. Refrigerate in an airtight container.

Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.