Description
This Crispy Parmesan Carrots recipe presents a delicious way to transform simple carrots into a savory, cheesy side dish. Roasted to perfection with garlic, rosemary, and a golden Parmesan crust, these carrots are tender on the inside with a satisfyingly crisp exterior. Perfect for a healthy but indulgent accompaniment to any meal, this easy oven-baked recipe takes just 45 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Carrots and Marinade
- 6 medium carrots, peeled
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Cheese and Garnish
- 2 cups (200 g) Parmesan cheese, grated, divided
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Carrots: Cut the peeled carrots crosswise into 2-inch sections, then slice each section in half lengthwise to create long, slender pieces.
- Mix Coating: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, kosher salt, minced garlic, onion powder, red pepper flakes, and chopped rosemary. Mix thoroughly to form a fragrant marinade.
- Toss Carrots: Add the carrot pieces to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the seasoned olive oil mixture.
- Prepare Parmesan Layer: Sprinkle 1½ cups of grated Parmesan cheese onto the lined sheet pan, spreading it into an 8×12 inch area that matches the size of the carrots.
- Arrange Carrots: Place each carrot piece onto the Parmesan-coated pan, cut side down, arranging them in a tight line and rectangular pattern to ensure close contact and even crisping. Repeat until all carrots are placed, avoiding gaps.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top of the arranged carrots for a crispy, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the carrots are easily pierced with a knife and the Parmesan has turned golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated varieties that may contain anti-caking agents.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your heat preference or omit for a mild flavor.
- Allow the carrots to cool for a couple of minutes after baking to let the cheese crust set before serving.
- This recipe works well as a side dish for poultry, steak, or vegetarian meals.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
