Description
Ingredients
For this elevated canned carrots recipe, you’ll need:
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- 2 (15 oz) cans of sliced carrots, drained
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- 3 tablespoons butter
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- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
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- 1 tablespoon honey
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- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
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- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
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- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
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- Salt and pepper to taste
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- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Substitution Tips:
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- No honey? Use maple syrup or extra brown sugar instead.
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- Fresh herbs not available? Dried herbs work fine—just use half the amount.
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- For a savory variation, skip the brown sugar and cinnamon, and add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
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- Butter alternatives like olive oil or coconut oil work too, though they’ll change the flavor profile slightly.
Instructions
Open your canned carrots and drain them thoroughly in a colander, giving them a gentle rinse if you prefer less of the canned flavor. Let them sit for a minute to ensure excess water drains away completely.
While they’re draining, melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar, honey, and spices (garlic powder, thyme, and cinnamon), stirring until the mixture is bubbling slightly and well combined.
Tip: For extra flavor depth, let your butter brown slightly before adding the other ingredients. That nutty aroma takes this dish to a whole new level!
Add the drained carrots to your skillet, gently folding them into the butter mixture. Be careful not to stir too vigorously—canned carrots are softer than fresh, and we want them to maintain their shape.
Allow the carrots to simmer in the glaze for about 5-7 minutes, occasionally spooning the glaze over the top. You’ll notice the liquid reducing and the glaze thickening slightly as it coats the carrots.
Tip: If your glaze reduces too quickly, add a tablespoon of water or orange juice to maintain the perfect consistency.
Once the carrots are heated through and thoroughly glazed, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. A pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper can really brighten the flavors.
Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately while hot for the best experience!
Tip: For special occasions, a light sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds or a drizzle of balsamic glaze takes this dish from everyday to elegant.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 115 per serving
Keywords: canned carrots recipe, glazed canned carrots, easy carrot side dish, brown sugar glazed carrots, pantry staple recipes