Name: Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or use baby carrots; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder); 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh, finely chopped); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Optional garnish: chopped parsley or finely chopped walnuts

A sweet and savory side dish featuring tender carrots roasted in a delightful maple‑Dijon glaze—easy to make, elegant in flavor, and perfect for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy how effortlessly this recipe transforms humble carrots into something special. The natural sweetness of maple syrup blends beautifully with the tang of Dijon mustard, creating a flavorful glaze that clings to roasted carrots. It’s simple, vibrant in color, and always gets compliments at the dinner table.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

carrots, peeled and cut into uniform sticks or baby carrots
olive oil
pure maple syrup
Dijon mustard
garlic, minced (or garlic powder)
dried thyme (or fresh, finely chopped)
salt and freshly ground black pepper
optional garnish: chopped parsley or a sprinkle of finely chopped walnuts

directions

I preheat my oven to 425 °F (220 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
I toss the carrot sticks with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
In a small bowl, I whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and thyme until smooth.
I pour the maple‑Dijon glaze over the carrots and toss until each piece is evenly coated.
I spread the carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
I roast for 20–25 minutes, tossing once halfway, until the carrots are tender and edges are caramelized.
I remove them from the oven and, if I like, sprinkle with chopped parsley or walnuts before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 as a flavorful side dish.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: approximately 30–35 minutes

Variations

Spicy kick: I add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for gentle heat.
Herb swap: I use rosemary or fresh thyme instead of dried thyme for a different herbal note.
Citrus brightening: I drizzle a little fresh lemon or orange juice over the carrots just before serving.
Sweet potato option: I swap half the carrots with sweet potato wedges for heartier texture and flavor.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a 375 °F (190 °C) oven for about 8–10 minutes, until heated through and slightly crisped again. I avoid microwaving to keep the edges caramelized.

FAQs

How do I select the best carrots?

I look for firm, vibrant carrots without soft spots. Evenly sized carrots or sticks ensure they roast uniformly.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes—I roast the carrots fully, cool them, then refrigerate. I reheat in the oven before serving to refresh the glaze and texture.

Is there a sugar-free substitute for maple syrup?

I sometimes use a sugar-free pancake syrup or a light drizzle of honey, though honey has a stronger flavor that slightly shifts the taste.

What if I only have baby carrots?

Baby carrots work perfectly—I reduce the cooking time by 5 minutes since they’re smaller and cook faster.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—I just use a larger baking sheet or two pans to keep the carrots in a single layer so they roast, not steam.

Conclusion

These maple Dijon roasted carrots are my go-to side dish when I want something quick yet refined. The balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes brings warmth and bright flavor to the plate, and they pair wonderfully with everything from roasted chicken to grain bowls.