Carrots have never looked this good. Roasted until caramelized and golden, then tossed in garlic, butter, and a shower of parmesan cheese, these Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots bring savory flavor to the humble root veggie. They strike that perfect balance between crisp-tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, making them a standout side dish for any meal.
Whether you’re pairing them with a holiday roast or serving them alongside a casual weeknight chicken dinner, these carrots earn their spot on the table with both flavor and flair. The garlic butter soaks into every crevice, while the parmesan clings to the crispy edges, giving you a bite that’s buttery, cheesy, and just a little garlicky in the best way possible.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the roasting, gather your tools to make the process effortless and efficient:
- Rimmed Baking Sheet: This is key for even roasting and keeping those buttery juices from spilling over. Make sure it’s large enough so the carrots can sit in a single layer.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup. This small step makes a big difference.
- Mixing Bowl: To coat the carrots evenly with oil, garlic, and seasonings.
- Microplane or Fine Grater: For freshly grated parmesan, which melts better and tastes far superior to pre-shredded.
- Tongs or Spatula: Useful for flipping the carrots halfway through roasting so they brown evenly.
Having the right tools doesn’t just make prep faster—it ensures your carrots roast properly and stay flavorful from oven to plate.

Ingredients for the Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots
Each ingredient plays a key role in building flavor and texture:
- Carrots – The star of the show. Choose medium-sized carrots or baby carrots for even roasting and natural sweetness.
- Olive Oil – Helps roast the carrots to a beautiful golden brown while keeping them tender.
- Garlic (minced) – Infuses the carrots with savory depth. Fresh garlic works best here.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots and balances the garlic and cheese.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty, nutty richness that clings to the roasted edges.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley – For a fresh pop of color and a bit of herbaceous brightness.
How To Make the Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots
Step 1: Prep the Carrots
Wash and peel your carrots. If using large carrots, slice them in half lengthwise to ensure they roast evenly. Pat dry to help them caramelize better.
Step 2: Toss with Seasoning
In a large mixing bowl, combine the carrots with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss until every piece is well coated.
Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the carrots in a single layer on a parchment-lined or silicone-lined rimmed baking sheet. Make sure there’s space between each for even roasting.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Carrots should be golden and slightly crisp on the edges.
Step 5: Add the Parmesan
Remove from the oven and sprinkle freshly grated parmesan over the hot carrots so it slightly melts. Toss gently.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy the savory-sweet contrast in every bite.
Best Ways to Serve and Store Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots
These roasted carrots shine brightest when served straight from the oven, warm and glistening with that buttery parmesan coating. They’re a fantastic side for holiday dinners, but also pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. Want to jazz up a grain bowl? Add these carrots for an instant upgrade.
To store leftovers, let the carrots cool completely and transfer them to an airtight container. They keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes to revive that roasted texture. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the crispy edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of carrots work best for this recipe?
Both whole carrots sliced in half and baby carrots roast beautifully. Just aim for uniform size to ensure even cooking.
Can I use pre-shredded parmesan cheese?
You can, but freshly grated parmesan melts more evenly and delivers better flavor. It’s worth the extra minute.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Skip the parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast can offer a similar cheesy flavor.
Can I make these in the air fryer?
Yes! Roast at 375°F in the air fryer for about 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. They come out extra crispy.
Are these carrots kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The mild garlic flavor and sweet roasted carrot base are usually a hit with little ones, especially with the cheesy topping.
Can I prep these in advance?
You can prep the carrots and seasoning mixture ahead of time and store in the fridge. Just roast when you’re ready to serve for best texture.
Want More Side Dish Ideas?
If you love these Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites from Life With Olivia:
- Cheesy Ranch Potatoes for a creamy and crispy comfort side.
- Honey Butter Skillet Corn with its sweet-savory richness.
- Scalloped Corn Casserole that brings buttery layers to your plate.
- Soft and Fluffy Homemade Naan Bread if you need something perfect for dipping or pairing.
- Zucchini Carrot Oatmeal Muffins for a savory-sweet veggie-filled snack.
For more daily recipes, you can also follow along on my Pinterest at Life With Olivia.
Save This Recipe for Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you roast them extra crispy or keep them tender? Did you go light or heavy on the parmesan?
I love hearing how others personalize these simple recipes. Questions are welcome too—let’s make this the best side dish ever, together.

Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Carrots roasted until golden, then tossed in a garlicky butter blend and finished with parmesan cheese and parsley. These Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots are savory, tender, and irresistibly crispy at the edges—perfect for both casual dinners and holiday spreads.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds carrots
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Wash and peel the carrots. If large, slice in half lengthwise. Pat dry.
2. In a mixing bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Roast in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with parmesan cheese while hot. Toss gently.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
For crispier edges, space the carrots out on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding.
Use fresh parmesan for best flavor and melting texture.
Roasting time may vary depending on carrot thickness—check for golden edges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 4mg
Keywords: roasted carrots, parmesan carrots, garlic roasted carrots

