Easy Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots. Perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or holiday feasts, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a buttery, honey glaze that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Let your slow cooker do the work, freeing up your oven and stovetop for other dishes. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a side that’s both convenient and crowd-pleasing.
Why You’ll Love Easy Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots:
- Set and Forget: Prep in minutes and let the slow cooker handle the rest.
- Versatile Flavor: Perfectly pairs with a variety of main dishes, from roasts to grilled meats.
- Kid-Friendly: A sweet glaze that makes veggies irresistible to kids and adults alike.
- Holiday Helper: Frees up valuable oven space during busy holiday cooking.
Personal Story: Every Thanksgiving, my kitchen turns into a bustling hub of activity, with every appliance and inch of counter space in use. I stumbled upon this glazed carrots recipe during one of those hectic holidays. It was a game-changer, allowing me to serve a stunning side dish without juggling pots and pans or sacrificing precious oven space. Since then, it’s become a cherished part of our family gatherings, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.
Key Features:
- Simple preparation
- Cooks perfectly in the slow cooker
- Sweet and savory flavor
- Ideal for holidays or everyday meals
What i need to make Easy Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots
- 2 pounds carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4 inch pieces
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How To Make Easy Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots
- Place the sliced carrots into the slow cooker.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the honey, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Pour the butter mixture over the carrots in the slow cooker, tossing to ensure all carrots are coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, or until carrots are tender to your liking.
- Once cooked, if there’s excess liquid, you can remove the carrots and reduce the liquid in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens, then pour it back over the carrots.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips For Easy Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots:
- For an extra touch of elegance, use whole baby carrots.
- Adjust sweetness to taste by modifying the amount of honey and brown sugar.
Variations For Easy Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots:
- Orange Glazed Carrots: Add the zest and juice of one orange to the glaze for a citrusy twist.
- Ginger Glazed Carrots: Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh grated ginger for a warm, spicy note.
Make It Healthier:
- Reduce the honey and brown sugar by half for a less sweet version that still celebrates the natural sweetness of the carrots.
- Use a plant-based butter substitute for a vegan-friendly dish.
Closing For Easy Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots are more than just a side dish; they’re a declaration that delicious, wholesome food doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this recipe promises to be a stress-free addition that’ll earn rave reviews. Dive into the simplicity and joy of slow cooking, and let these glazed carrots shine at your next meal!
Frequently Asked Questions Easy Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots:
Can I make this Easy Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the carrots ahead and reheat them in the slow cooker before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Absolutely. Maple syrup is a great alternative and will add a different flavor profile.
Is it necessary to peel the carrots?
While not strictly necessary, peeling the carrots ensures a smoother texture and better absorption of the glaze.
Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots
Course: Crock Pot®8
servings30
minutes3
minutes132
kcalIngredients
2 lbs carrots peeled and sliced into 1/2 inch pieces
1/4 cup butter melted
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Directions
- Place the carrots in a slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together the butter, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Pour the brown sugar mixture over the carrots and toss to coat.
- Cook on HIGH for 3 hours or until carrots are tender. If you’d like to thicken the glaze, remove the cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 15 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley and serve.