Transform basic carrots into something special with a sweet and tangy glaze in this Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots recipe. We toss them with maple syrup and Dijon, then roast until tender and caramelized. They’re a perfect, colorful side for both holiday gatherings and simple weeknight dinners.
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Ingredients for Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots
For the carrots
- Carrots – Fresh and peeled for the best texture and sweetness.
For the glaze
- Olive Oil – Extra virgin is my go-to for its rich flavor.
- Maple Syrup – Pure maple syrup brings the perfect caramelized sweetness.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy depth that balances the maple so well.
- Kosher Salt – Just enough to enhance all the flavors.
- Black Pepper – Freshly ground is always worth it.
For garnish
- Parsley – Freshly chopped for a bright, herby finish.
Cook Time for Roasted Carrots Side Dish
I love how quickly this Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots side dish comes together. The total time is just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it fantastic for a busy weeknight or when you need a last-minute addition to your holiday table without any fuss.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
If you’re looking for another quick and delicious roasted vegetable idea, try my simple roasted broccoli and cauliflower.
How to Make Easy Maple Dijon Glazed Carrots
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step makes for such an easy cleanup later, and it prevents our sweet and savory carrots from sticking.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper. Keep whisking until the mixture is completely smooth and emulsified. This easy maple Dijon glaze is the heart of the recipe!
Step 3: Coat the Carrots
Place your peeled carrots on the prepared baking sheet and pour the glaze over them. Use your hands or a spatula to toss everything together until each carrot is gleaming and evenly coated with that delicious mixture.
Step 4: Arrange and Roast
Spread the carrots out into a single, even layer on the sheet. Giving them plenty of space is the key to getting them perfectly roasted and caramelized instead of steamed. This is how we achieve that beautiful color!
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. I always give them one good toss about halfway through. They’re done when they’re fork-tender and the edges have started to caramelize and brown.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Transfer your beautiful baked carrots with maple mustard glaze to a serving platter. Finish them with a sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley for a pop of color and a bright, herby note. Serve them hot and watch them disappear!
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this recipe truly shine. Here are my favorite ways to tweak these savory roasted carrots with parsley to make them your own.
- Flavor Swap: For a different twist, a splash of balsamic vinegar can add a wonderful complexity to the glaze. It’s a trick I also use in my honey balsamic carrots.
- Diet Tweaks: To make this dish sugar-free, you can substitute the maple syrup with a sugar-free alternative. Just be aware it might not caramelize quite as deeply.
- Prep & Texture: For extra crispy edges, make sure your carrots are completely dry before tossing them in the glaze. Crowding the pan is the biggest mistake—give them room!
- Storage & Reheat: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They reheat beautifully in the oven or toaster oven to maintain texture, unlike softer dishes like a carrot soufflé.
Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds fresh carrots peeled and trimmed
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped for garnish
Equipment
- oven
- baking sheet
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Place the peeled carrots on the prepared baking sheet and pour the maple-Dijon glaze over them. Use your hands or a spatula to toss the carrots thoroughly until they are evenly coated on all sides.
- Arrange the carrots in a single, even layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded, which will help them roast instead of steam.
- Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, tossing them once halfway through the cooking time. They are done when they are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork and the edges have begun to caramelize and brown.
- Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving platter, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately while hot.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
Beyond their delicious sweet and savory flavor, these maple Dijon roasted carrots bring some wonderful nutritional benefits to your table. Carrots are a true powerhouse vegetable, packed with beta-carotene which converts to vitamin A in our bodies.
This essential nutrient supports vision health, immune function, and glowing skin. The olive oil in our glaze helps your body absorb these fat-soluble vitamins even better.
According to research from the North Dakota State University Extension, roasting vegetables helps preserve more nutrients compared to boiling. Plus, the natural sweetness means we need less added sugar than many other side dishes.
This makes our easy roasted carrots not just tasty but genuinely nourishing. If you’re looking for more healthy vegetable inspiration, try my roasted sweet potato kale quinoa salad or explore our collection of healthy Thanksgiving sides for more balanced holiday options.
A Lighter Version of Our Holiday Side Dish
If you’re watching your sugar intake or prefer a more savory profile, this recipe adapts beautifully with just a few simple tweaks. I’ve made these adjustments many times for friends with different dietary preferences, and they’re always delighted with the results.
For a lower-sugar version, you can reduce the maple syrup by half and add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to maintain that tangy balance. The carrots themselves bring natural sweetness that shines through when we let them caramelize properly in the oven.
Another favorite swap in our house is using avocado oil instead of olive oil for its neutral flavor and high smoke point. It creates the most beautiful crispy edges without overpowering the other flavors. If you enjoy experimenting with roasted vegetables, you might also love my simple roasted cabbage or these grilled sweet potato wedges for variety.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
I know how important it is to adapt recipes for different dietary needs, especially when cooking for loved ones with specific health considerations. Over years of sharing meals with friends and family, I’ve learned that small adjustments can make traditional recipes work for almost everyone at the table.
For those managing blood sugar or looking for diabetic-friendly options, you can replace the maple syrup completely with a sugar-free alternative. I’ve had great success using a monk fruit blend that caramelizes surprisingly well. Another option is using just a tablespoon of orange juice for subtle sweetness without spiking glucose levels.
Portion control also helps maintain glycemic balance – serving these as part of a plate filled with protein and other non-starchy vegetables creates a wonderfully balanced meal. Remember that roasting brings out the carrots’ natural sugars, so even without added sweeteners, you’ll still enjoy that lovely caramelized flavor we all love in this roasted carrots side dish.
How to Serve Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots
I’ll never forget the first time I served these maple Dijon roasted carrots at our family Thanksgiving. My uncle, who usually skipped the vegetable dishes, went back for thirds and asked for the recipe right there at the table. Now they’ve become a non-negotiable part of our holiday spread, and I love how they bring that beautiful pop of color to the feast.
These sweet and savory carrots pair beautifully with so many main dishes. They’re fantastic alongside roasted chicken or turkey, and they complement other roasted carrot variations when you want a vegetable medley. For weeknight dinners, I often serve them with simple grilled pork chops or baked salmon.
The tangy glaze makes them versatile enough to cut through richer meats while complementing lighter proteins equally well. If you’re building a complete meal around this side, consider adding my hearty carrot lentil soup as a starter for a carrot-themed dinner that’s always a hit with guests.
Mistakes to Avoid
Over the years, I’ve learned that even simple recipes like these maple Dijon roasted carrots can have pitfalls. But don’t worry—I’ve made these mistakes myself so you don’t have to!
The most common error is overcrowding the baking sheet. When carrots are packed too tightly, they steam instead of roast, missing that beautiful caramelization we love. Always use a large enough pan and give each piece some breathing room for the best results.
Another mistake I see often is adding the glaze too early. If you pour the maple Dijon mixture on before roasting, it can burn in the oven’s heat. Instead, brush it on during the last 10-15 minutes when the carrots are nearly tender.
Don’t forget to check your oven temperature with a thermometer if your roasting seems off. An oven that runs too hot or cold can completely change your cooking time and results. According to Bon Appétit cooking techniques, proper temperature control is essential for perfectly roasted vegetables.
Finally, resist the urge to stir too frequently. Let those carrots develop those beautiful browned edges—that’s where the magic happens! If you’re looking for more vegetable roasting tips, my roasted broccoli and cauliflower guide has additional techniques that work well with this maple Dijon roasted carrots recipe.
Remember, cooking is about learning and adapting. Even if your first batch isn’t perfect, each attempt brings you closer to mastering this delicious side dish that will become a family favorite.
How to Store Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots
I’ll never forget the Thanksgiving when my sister accidentally made triple the amount of these maple Dijon roasted carrots. We enjoyed them for days in creative ways, and I discovered just how versatile they are even after their initial serving!
For short-term storage, let your roasted carrots cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The glaze actually marinates into the carrots, making them even more flavorful the next day.
When reheating, I prefer the oven or air fryer to maintain that lovely texture. Spread them on a baking sheet at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. The microwave works in a pinch but can make them slightly softer.
You can freeze these maple Dijon glazed carrots for up to 3 months, though the texture will be softer when thawed. They’re perfect for adding to soups or grain bowls straight from the freezer. I often use leftover roasted carrots in my hearty carrot lentil soup for an extra flavor boost.
If you find yourself with extra carrots, consider transforming them into a completely different dish like my carrot soufflé. The sweet and savory flavors adapt wonderfully to this creamy, elegant preparation that feels like a brand new meal.
Try This Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots Yourself
There’s something truly magical about how such simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary. I still remember the first time I served these maple Dijon roasted carrots to my southern grandmother—she raised an eyebrow at the combination but asked for seconds before the meal was halfway through!
This roasted carrots side dish has become more than just a recipe in our home. It’s the dish my daughter requests for birthday dinners, the one we bring to potlucks when we want to impress without stress, and the comforting side that makes ordinary weeknights feel special.
I encourage you to make these sweet and savory carrots your own. Add a sprinkle of rosemary if you love herbal notes, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy warmth. Cooking is about creating memories around the table, and this flexible recipe welcomes your personal touch.
If you enjoy these easy roasted carrots, you might also love exploring our collection of vegetable side dishes for more inspiration. For another maple-kissed option, try my maple pecan roasted sweet potatoes or these honey roasted carrots and parsnips for variety.
However you choose to enjoy them, I hope these maple Dijon roasted carrots bring as much joy to your table as they have to mine. Happy cooking, friends!
Frequently Asked Questions
Maple dijon roasted carrots recipe?
Yes, this is a complete recipe for maple Dijon roasted carrots! You’ll find all measurements and instructions in the recipe card above. The combination of sweet maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard creates a beautiful glaze that caramelizes perfectly in the oven.
Maple dijon roasted carrots honey?
While this recipe uses maple syrup, you can absolutely substitute honey if you prefer. The flavor will be slightly different but equally delicious. For a similar honey-based option, check out my honey balsamic carrots recipe.
Maple dijon roasted carrots glaze?
The glaze is simply a mixture of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and seasonings. I recommend brushing it on during the last 10-15 minutes of roasting to prevent burning while still achieving that lovely caramelized coating.
Maple dijon roasted carrots balsamic?
A splash of balsamic vinegar would be wonderful in this glaze! It adds depth and complexity to the sweet and savory profile. Add about a tablespoon when mixing your glaze ingredients for a delicious variation.
Honey Dijon roasted carrots?
You can easily adapt this recipe for honey Dijon roasted carrots by substituting honey for the maple syrup. The cooking method remains exactly the same, and you’ll still achieve that beautiful caramelized result that makes this side dish so special.
Dijon mustard carrots?
Yes, Dijon mustard is one of the key ingredients in this recipe! It provides that wonderful tangy contrast to the sweet maple syrup and natural carrot sweetness. The mustard also helps the glaze adhere beautifully to the carrots during roasting.
Maple roasted carrots?
While this recipe includes Dijon mustard for complexity, you can certainly make simpler maple roasted carrots by omitting the mustard. The result will be sweeter and less complex, but still absolutely delicious with that caramelized maple flavor we all love.
Maple dijon glazed roasted carrots and apples?
Adding apples is a fantastic idea! Slice them into wedges and toss with the carrots before roasting. The apples will caramelize beautifully alongside the carrots, and their natural sweetness complements the maple Dijon glaze perfectly.
Maple miso dijon roasted carrots?
Miso would add wonderful umami depth to these carrots! Substitute half the Dijon mustard with white miso paste for a complex, savory-sweet variation. The miso caramelizes beautifully and creates an incredibly rich flavor profile.
More Cozy Vegetable Sides You’ll Love
If these maple Dijon roasted carrots found their way to your heart, here are more vegetable dishes that turn simple ingredients into something magical.
Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Quinoa Salad – A hearty, nutrient-packed bowl with warm spices and creamy feta that satisfies as a main or side.
Simple Roasted Cabbage – Transform humble cabbage into caramelized, tender wedges with crispy edges that will make you rethink this classic vegetable.
Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges – Smoky, tender sweet potatoes with gorgeous grill marks that bring outdoor cooking flavor to any meal.
Maple Muffins – Warm, spiced muffins sweetened naturally with maple syrup that make your kitchen smell like a cozy autumn morning.
Healthy Thanksgiving Sides Collection – Lighter versions of holiday classics that don’t sacrifice flavor, perfect for balancing your festive table.
