What dish are you in charge of this Thanksgiving? Even if you're trying to bring something to the table but aren't a master chef, you can whip up a batch of these simple roasted carrots, sis. And you'll impress your family, bae's family--basically, whoever's family you're eating with. Start scrolling for an easy side dish that's inexpensive (as in, under $10) to make.
Speaking of inexpensive Thanksgiving solutions, have you checked out my guide the perfect Thanksgiving yet? Click here to scoop it up for your holiday preparation!
Growing up, my mom always fed us carrots "for beautiful eyes" so I'm a big fan of them and have shared a few different carrot recipes (peep these ginger curry carrots) over the years. Everyone needs a good basic recipe to start with, though, so here's yours. If you've ever wondered (or Googled) how to cook carrots, I've got you covered today. These carrots are cut into bite-sized pieces, seasoned simply, then roasted to perfection. The result is on point both flavor and texture-wise so don't be surprised when everyone goes back for seconds.
These simple roasted carrots are totally good for you, too. Thanksgiving recipes tend to be on the heavier side so these provide a bit of balance on the table and give everyone's palate some variety in flavor and texture. Roasted veggies are a good complement to all the creamy, cheesy, sweetness going on around Thanksgiving time. By the way, I am a big fan of indulgent thanksgiving staples like mac & cheese and mashed potatoes but like to balance things out. Don't think there's no butter or sugar on my table because there most certainly is! To make these roasted carrots, you'll need just five ingredients: carrots (of course), olive oil, dried thyme, sea salt, and black pepper. Dassit!
Tips for Making Simple Roasted Carrots
- It is very important to cut your carrots into bite-sized pieces so that they roast evenly and are easy for people to eat. Here's a video of the roll cut method I use to cut these carrots.
- It's not necessary to peel your carrots, but if you want to go for bonus presentation points, peel them before cutting with an easy peeler.
- Be sure to spread out your carrots on a sheet pan with at least ½ inch of space between each piece. This will ensure the carrots have plenty of surface area exposed to the roasting heat of the oven. When crowded too closely, the steam released from the carrots cooks each other and the texture will be off.
More on How to Roast Vegetables
Just in case roasted carrots aren't your thing, try out one of these roasted vegetable recipes for your Thanksgiving side dish.
- Crispy Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Roasted Lemon Squash
- Roasted Root Veggies
- Sweet & Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Whole Roasted Cauliflower
For more help in pulling off the perfect Thanksgiving, check out my new Thanksgiving Guide. You won't regret it. 🙂 Now, tell me, what are you in charge of making this year? Let me know below and thanks for reading!
P.S. Sharing is caring so be sure to pin this recipe on Pinterest.
Simply seasoned carrots roasted to the perfect texture to complement rich Thanksgiving dishes
- 16 bulk carrots washed and trimmed
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- sea salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut carrots into bite-sized pieces using the roll cut method. (See recipe notes for video on method)
Toss carrots with olive oil and spices until evenly coated.
Spread carrots out on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender (but not mushy). If you pick up a piece and squeeze, it should have some give but not squish all together.
Marta says
Roasted carrots don't get the love they deserve! They're so tasty when caramelized and so easy to pull off. I love your version.
Brittany Fiero says
This looks like the perfect side dish for all of the upcoming holiday dinners. This seems so simple to make and healthy too!
Tamara J. says
I love the simplicity of this dish. Carrots are already delicious, but your cooking method is even better. I’m definitely trying this out very soon.
Aly Michell says
That looks absolutely divine! Looks like another side dish is going to make its way on this year's Thanksgiving dinner table. Thanks for sharing!
Calysta says
OMG!!! These photos are making me hungry! I often forget carrots as as healthy and simple holiday dish! Thank you for this simple recipe!
Adri Ruff says
I love this! A good plant-based recipe to balance out all of the indulgences this season!
Eden says
These carrots are so simple to make and absolutely delicious!
Katrina Adams says
I have a new love for roasted vegetables so I definitely will be trying carrots!!! I am in charge of dessert and a side dish!
SHANIKA says
These Roasted Carrots look so good and are perfect as a side dish for the Holidays! I love that they are so well seasoned.
Kenya Rae says
I never really cook with thyme. I often forget about it. These look delicious!
Aline says
Roasted carrots are a MUST on our holiday table! One can never have too many recipe ideas!