Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots

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Sweet, tender carrots roasted to caramelized perfection and sprinkled with golden, garlicky breadcrumbs and nutty Parmesan—these Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots are not your average veggie side. They’re bursting with flavor, gorgeously golden on the outside, and irresistibly crispy thanks to a generous topping of toasted Panko and herbs.

This dish transforms the humble carrot into a savory, crowd-pleasing star. Whether you’re serving them alongside a weeknight chicken dinner or at your holiday table, these roasted carrots are both comforting and elevated, with layers of texture and flavor in every bite.

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What Kind of Carrots Work Best for Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots?

You can use whole carrots, peeled and trimmed, or opt for smaller heirloom varieties for an extra pop of color. Just make sure the carrots are similar in size so they cook evenly. Baby carrots can work in a pinch, though they may lack the natural sweetness and texture of fresh whole carrots.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots

Carrots
The star of the show! Choose fresh, firm carrots with vibrant orange color. They roast beautifully and develop a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory topping.

Olive Oil
Essential for roasting, olive oil helps the carrots caramelize and ensures the breadcrumb mixture adheres well.

Garlic (Minced or Powdered)
Brings a warm, savory depth. Fresh garlic adds punch, while garlic powder gives a milder flavor.

Parmesan Cheese
A salty, nutty finish that crisps up during roasting. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.

Panko Breadcrumbs
These create the crave-worthy crunch. They toast up golden and give the dish a delightful texture.

Italian Seasoning or Fresh Herbs
For a herby balance to the richness. Dried Italian seasoning works well, or you can finish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme.

Salt & Pepper
To enhance all the flavors and balance the sweetness of the carrots.

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How To Make the Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots

Step 1: Prep the Carrots

Wash and peel the carrots. Trim the ends and slice thicker ones in half lengthwise if needed to ensure even roasting.

Step 2: Season and Toss

Place the carrots on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Toss until the carrots are fully coated.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are fork-tender and starting to caramelize.

Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping

Mix Panko breadcrumbs with a bit of olive oil and grated Parmesan. Remove carrots briefly from the oven, sprinkle the breadcrumb mix over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley or additional Parmesan before serving. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.

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How to Serve and Store Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots

These roasted carrots make a fantastic side dish for roast chicken, grilled steak, or even holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Easter. Their sweet-savory flavor also pairs beautifully with creamy pastas or a crisp salad.

To store leftovers, transfer cooled carrots to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore that crispy topping—the microwave can make them a little soft. If freezing, skip the breadcrumb topping until ready to serve.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use baby carrots?

Yes, but they may not develop the same caramelized edges as whole fresh carrots. Try to roast them longer to bring out more flavor.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the carrots and breadcrumb mix in advance, but for best texture, roast them just before serving. If needed, reheat in the oven.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of Panko?

You can, but Panko gives a crunchier result. Regular breadcrumbs may become more soft or soggy.

How do I keep the carrots from getting too soft?

Avoid overcrowding the pan and roast at a high temperature. This ensures better browning and prevents steaming.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be! Just use gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs and double-check your Parmesan is gluten-free.

What herbs work best?

Fresh parsley, thyme, or even chives all pair wonderfully. Dried Italian seasoning is a good shortcut when you’re in a pinch.

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Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If you love these Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots, you’ll definitely want to try a few of these mouthwatering favorites from the blog:

• Crack Green Beans: The Ultimate Sweet and Savory Side Dish
• Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions Recipe
• Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes and Veggies
• Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread
• Bacon, Egg, and Hash Brown Casserole

These all make wonderful companions to weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest veggie board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use fresh herbs or go with Italian seasoning? Did you try it with rainbow carrots?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook with flavor and fun.

Looking for more recipe inspiration? Check out my daily recipe shares on Pinterest: Life with Nina Recipes

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