Let’s be honest – sometimes, side dishes can steal the show, and that’s exactly what these buttery cooked carrots do! They’re tender, glazed with warm buttery goodness, and so easy to make, you might find yourself whipping them up on a weeknight or for a special holiday feast. Whether you’ve got picky eaters at the table or are hosting a big family dinner, this recipe turns simple carrots into a crowd-pleaser.
Table of content
- About The Recipe
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- How to Make the Recipe(Step-by-Step)
- Expert Tips for Success
- Variations and Customizations
- Nutritional Information
- Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Recipe Card
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Comments & Reviews
- Social Sharing Options
About The Buttery Cooked Carrots Recipe
Carrots—one of the most underrated veggies out there—get the royal treatment in this recipe! Buttery cooked carrots have been a staple at cozy family dinners and festive holiday tables for as long as anyone can remember. You probably grew up with some variation of this dish on your plate, especially around Thanksgiving or Christmas. The beauty of this recipe is how it transforms humble carrots into something so decadently delicious that even kids might ask for seconds.What makes these buttery cooked carrots stand out is their simplicity. With a handful of affordable ingredients, you can unlock all the natural sweetness of carrots while adding a buttery glaze that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re new to cooking or consider yourself a kitchen pro, this recipe’s straightforward steps make it a breeze to pull off. And if you’re looking for ways to tweak the flavors? Stick around, I’ll share a few tricks below!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in less than 20 minutes
- Requires minimal ingredients – most of which are pantry staples
- Perfect mix of buttery richness and natural carrot sweetness
- Kid-friendly and a great way to sneak in veggies
- Versatile dish that pairs well with almost any meal
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Carrots: Use fresh carrots for the best flavor, but baby carrots work if you’re in a pinch. Frozen carrots are also fine; just adjust cooking time slightly.
- Butter: Unsalted butter works best so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
- Brown Sugar: Adds the perfect touch of sweetness—swap with a bit of honey or maple syrup for a slightly different vibe.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together.
How to Make the Recipe (Step-by-Step)
- Peel and slice your carrots: Start by washing, peeling, and slicing your carrots into even pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- Boil the carrots: Place the carrots in a pot of boiling water. Cook until they’re tender but not mushy—about 7-10 minutes.
- Prepare the buttery glaze: In a separate pan, melt butter over low heat and add brown sugar. Stir until it forms a smooth glaze.
- Combine and season: Drain the carrots and toss them into the buttery mixture. Make sure all the pieces are well-coated. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and enjoy: Plate the carrots while they’re warm and serve them as the perfect side dish for your meal!
Expert Tips for Success
Slice carrots evenly so they cook at the same speed.
Don’t over-boil them! Keep them tender with a little bite.
If you like a caramelized flavor, let the butter and sugar cook just a bit longer to thicken more.
Add fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and earthy flavor.
Variations and Customizations
Feeling fancy? Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the buttery glaze for a holiday twist. Want a citrusy kick? Try mixing in a bit of orange juice or zest. If you’re looking for a more savory flavor, toss in some garlic powder or thyme.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is a simple mix of wholesome ingredients and indulgence. A serving of buttery cooked carrots comes in at around 110-120 calories, with healthy carbs from the carrots and a touch of fat from the butter. Carrots are packed with vitamin A, giving you a big boost for your eyes and skin. Plus, the natural sweetness means you’re satisfying your sweet tooth with less added sugar than you’d think.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Store your buttery carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating is a breeze—just pop them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm them on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or a tiny bit of butter if they look dry while reheating.
Recipe Card of Buttery Cooked Carrots
Ingredients list
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 0.33 cup brown sugar
- 0.25 cup butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients to set the stage for your delightful culinary experience.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the baby carrots until they reach tender perfection, roughly 8 to 10 minutes.
- Drain the carrots, setting aside just enough of the cooking water to barely cover the pan’s bottom; store carrots for later.
- Incorporate the brown sugar and butter into the mix; keep it warm, stirring until the butter gently melts.
- Return the carrots to the pot, tossing them thoroughly until they're beautifully coated. Allow them a few minutes to mingle the divine flavors.
Recipe Video
Notes
Nutrition
All Your Questions About This Recipe
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cook and glaze the carrots, then store them in the fridge. Reheat and toss before serving.
What’s the best way to keep carrots tender but not mushy?
Boil them only until fork-tender – typically 7-10 minutes. Check them often so they don’t overcook.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Definitely! Try swapping brown sugar for honey, maple syrup, or even agave.