Slow Cooker Brown Butter Glazed Carrots

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Looking for a side dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly flavorful? These Slow Cooker Brown Butter Glazed Carrots are the answer! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s sweet, savory, and perfectly tender. The rich, nutty flavor of brown butter combined with the natural sweetness of carrots makes this recipe a standout. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, these carrots are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Let the slow cooker do the work while you focus on other tasks.
• Rich Flavor: Brown butter adds a deep, nutty aroma that elevates the dish.
• Versatile: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or everyday meals.
• Kid-Friendly: The sweet glaze makes carrots irresistible to picky eaters.
• Healthy and Delicious: Carrots are packed with nutrients, and this recipe keeps them front and center.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Carrots (2 lbs, peeled & cut into 2-inch pieces): Naturally sweet and tender when slow-cooked.
• Unsalted butter (½ cup, browned): Adds a deep, nutty flavor that enhances the sweetness of the carrots.
• Brown sugar (¼ cup): Provides a subtle caramel-like sweetness.
• Salt (1 tsp) & Black pepper (½ tsp): Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• Dried thyme or rosemary (1 tsp, optional): Adds an earthy, aromatic depth.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional): Brightens up the dish with a pop of color and freshness.

Tips and Tricks

• Cut Carrots Evenly: Ensure the carrot pieces are similar in size for even cooking.
• Don’t Rush the Brown Butter: Take your time to achieve that golden, nutty flavor—it’s the star of the dish!
• Check for Doneness: Carrots should be fork-tender but not mushy. Adjust cooking time as needed.
• Double the Recipe: This recipe scales up easily for larger gatherings.

Variations and Customizations

• Add Citrus: Stir in a splash of orange juice or zest for a bright, tangy twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Make It Savory: Replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the carrots for added crunch.

Pairing Suggestions

• Main Dishes: Pair with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham for a complete meal.
• Holiday Feasts: Serve alongside turkey, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole.
• Vegetarian Option: Enjoy with quinoa, lentils, or a hearty grain salad.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to refresh the glaze.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the carrots may change.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?
Yes, baby carrots work well and save time on peeling and cutting.

2. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Absolutely! Simmer the carrots in the brown butter glaze in a covered skillet for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.

3. Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh parsley adds a brighter flavor and vibrant color.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Slow Cooker Brown Butter Glazed Carrots

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

These slow-cooked carrots are coated in a rich, nutty brown butter glaze with a touch of sweetness and warm spices. The perfect hands-off side dish for any meal, these carrots come out tender, buttery, and absolutely irresistible!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs carrots (peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (for the rich brown butter glaze)
• ¼ cup brown sugar (adds sweetness and caramelization)
• 1 tsp salt (enhances the flavors)
• ½ tsp black pepper (for a subtle kick)
• 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional, for an herby touch)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

• Prepare the Brown Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Let it cool slightly.
• Assemble in the Slow Cooker: Place the carrot pieces in the slow cooker. Pour the brown butter mixture over the carrots, stirring to coat them evenly.
• Add Herbs (Optional): Sprinkle dried thyme or rosemary over the carrots for an extra layer of flavor, if desired.
• Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the carrots are tender.
• Serve: Gently stir the carrots to coat them in the glaze. Garnish with fresh parsley, if using, and serve warm.

Notes

• For a healthier version, reduce the butter to ¼ cup and use coconut oil for the remaining fat.
• If the glaze is too thin after cooking, transfer the carrots and liquid to a skillet and simmer until thickened.
• Double the glaze ingredients if you prefer a saucier dish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-5 hours (slow cooker)
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American

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