Smashed Roasted Carrots with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe

Introduction

Smashed carrots make a delightful side dish that’s both simple and full of flavor. Tender carrots get a crispy finish with a touch of Parmesan and smoky spices, perfect for elevating any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Boil the carrot rounds in salted water for 10–12 minutes until they are fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
3. Step 3: Arrange the carrots on the baking sheet and gently flatten each one using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the olive oil over the carrots, then sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Evenly scatter the grated Parmesan on top.
5. Step 5: Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping the carrots halfway through, until they are crisp and golden brown.
6. Step 6: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting.
• Try swapping Parmesan with pecorino or feta cheese for a different taste.
• Use baby carrots for a quicker cooking time and cute presentation.
• Roast the carrots skin-on for a rustic texture and added nutrients.

Storage

Store leftover smashed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or a toaster oven to retain crispness, rather than microwaving, which can make them soft.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh herbs instead of parsley?

Yes, fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives make great alternatives and add unique flavors that complement the carrots well.

Can I prepare smashed carrots ahead of time?

You can boil and flatten the carrots in advance, then keep them refrigerated. When ready, season and roast them fresh to ensure they stay crispy and delicious.

Smashed Roasted Carrots with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 118 reviews

Smashed Carrots are a deliciously crispy and flavorful side dish featuring tender boiled carrots that are gently crushed, seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese, then roasted to golden perfection. Finished with fresh parsley, this recipe offers a healthy and vibrant way to enjoy carrots with a satisfying texture.

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Carrots

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds

Seasonings & Toppings

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Boil the carrots: Place the peeled and thickly sliced carrot rounds into salted boiling water. Cook for 10–12 minutes or until the carrots are fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain and allow them to cool slightly to handle safely.
3. Smash the carrots: Arrange the boiled carrot rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each carrot piece with the bottom of a glass or a measuring cup to create smashed rounds, increasing their surface area for crisping.
4. Season and top: Drizzle the smashed carrots evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper on top to season. Evenly distribute the grated Parmesan cheese over the carrots for a cheesy crust.
5. Roast: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20–25 minutes. About halfway through (at around 12 minutes), flip the carrots carefully to ensure even browning and crisping on both sides.
6. Garnish and serve: Once the carrots are golden brown and crispy on the edges, remove them from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Serve hot to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Notes

• Boiling the carrots first ensures they are tender inside before roasting for crispiness.
• If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can substitute with regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a slight kick.
• For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
• Use a sturdy glass or measuring cup to smash the carrots gently without breaking them apart completely.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.

Keywords: smashed carrots, roasted carrots, crispy carrots, healthy side dish, parmesan carrots, easy vegetable recipe