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Oven Roasted Carrots with Bacon
This dish brings together the natural sweetness of roasted carrots and the savory crunch of bacon for a side that’s as hearty as it is delicious. The light drizzle of honey or maple syrup enhances the caramelization, while a sprinkle of thyme adds a hint of earthiness. This easy recipe requires minimal prep but adds a warm, flavorful touch to any meal, whether you’re gathering for a holiday or just elevating a weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 35 min
- Total Time: 45 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into 2-inch sticks
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare carrots and bacon: Place the carrots on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Scatter the chopped bacon over the carrots.
Roast the carrots and bacon: Bake for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup, add thyme if using, and toss to coat. Return to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until carrots are tender and bacon is crispy.
Serve and enjoy: Transfer the roasted carrots and bacon to a serving dish, and garnish with extra thyme if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Optional Additions: For a bright twist, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving or sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
Bacon Substitution: For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and substitute with smoked paprika or a sprinkle of crispy chickpeas for texture.
Ensure Caramelization: Stir the carrots halfway through cooking for even roasting, and avoid crowding the pan so the carrots caramelize rather than steam.