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Tender Brown Butter Garlic Roasted Carrots with Thyme

brown butter garlic roasted carrots - featured image

A simple and elegant side dish featuring tender roasted carrots coated in nutty brown butter, garlic, and fresh thyme. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound medium-sized carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or halves
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced finely
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (about 45 sprigs)
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: fresh lemon juice or chopped parsley for serving

Instructions

  1. Peel the carrots and cut into uniform sticks or halves, about 3-4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.
  2. Place 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently as it melts and foams. After 4-5 minutes, when the butter turns light brown with a nutty aroma, remove from heat immediately.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves into the browned butter. Do not cook the garlic in the pan to avoid burning.
  4. Transfer the carrots to a large mixing bowl. Pour the brown butter, garlic, and thyme mixture over the carrots. Add salt and black pepper. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all carrots.
  5. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding.
  6. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until carrots are tender with caramelized edges.
  7. Remove from oven, taste and adjust salt if needed. Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice or sprinkle chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Watch the butter closely while browning to avoid burning. Toss carrots well in the brown butter mixture for even coating. Uniform carrot size ensures even roasting. Optionally add lemon juice or parsley for brightness. Can substitute ghee or vegan butter for dairy-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted carrots, brown butter, garlic, thyme, easy side dish, healthy vegetables, quick recipe