Description
This Crispy Parmesan Carrots recipe transforms simple carrots into a flavorful, crunchy side dish baked to golden perfection with a cheesy, herb-infused crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 6 medium carrots, peeled
Seasoning & Oil
- 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
- 2 cups (200 g) Parmesan cheese, grated, divided
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper to ensure the carrots don’t stick and to make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Carrots: Cut the peeled carrots crosswise into 2-inch sections, then slice each section in half lengthwise to create long, slender pieces perfect for crisping.
- Mix Coating: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, kosher salt, minced garlic, onion powder, red pepper flakes, and chopped rosemary. Stir well to create a fragrant marinade.
- Toss Carrots: Add the carrot pieces to the marinade and toss until they are evenly coated with the seasoned olive oil mixture.
- Prepare Parmesan Layer: Spread 1½ cups of grated Parmesan cheese onto the prepared sheet pan, forming an 8×12 inch layer to cover the area where the carrots will be placed.
- Arrange Carrots: Place each coated carrot piece cut side down onto the Parmesan cheese layer in a tight, rectangular pattern to maximize contact and encourage even crisping. Avoid gaps between pieces.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup Parmesan cheese over the arranged carrots to create a crispy, cheesy crust during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the carrots are tender when pierced with a knife and the Parmesan has turned golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make sure to slice the carrots evenly to ensure uniform cooking and crispness.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and a better crispy crust.
- You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preferred spice level.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative and adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Let the carrots cool slightly on the baking sheet to help the Parmesan crust firm up before serving.
