Crispy Parmesan Smashed Carrots Recipe
Crispy Parmesan Smashed Carrots are a delightful side dish featuring tender microwave-steamed carrots smashed and roasted with olive oil and Parmesan cheese until golden and crispy. Enhanced with garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs, this easy recipe delivers a flavorful, cheesy, and slightly spicy vegetable treat perfect alongside any dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Carrots
- 1 pound carrots
Seasoning and Coating
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided, plus more for serving
- 1 ounce finely-grated Parmesan cheese (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Freshly-ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Finely-chopped fresh tender herbs, for serving (such as parsley, chives, or dill)
- Green goddess ranch, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to fully heat while preparing the carrots.
- Prepare the carrots: Peel 1 pound of carrots and cut them crosswise into 1 1/2 to 2-inch pieces. If carrots are very thick, cut each piece in half or quarters lengthwise for even cooking.
- Cook the carrots: If you have an Anyday dish, follow specific microwave instructions for carrots by wattage. Otherwise, place carrots in a large microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons of water, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and microwave on high for 5 to 6 minutes until knife-tender.
- Prep the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush the parchment with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle the finely grated Parmesan cheese evenly over it.
- Season the carrots: When carrots are cooked, drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, then season with kosher salt, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and several grinds of black pepper. Gently toss to coat evenly.
- Smash the carrots: Arrange the seasoned carrots in a single layer on top of the Parmesan-coated baking sheet. Using the bottom of a metal measuring cup or similar sturdy flat object, press down on each carrot piece until flattened but still in one piece.
- Roast to crisp: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until the Parmesan is crisp and the undersides of the carrots are deeply golden brown and caramelized.
- Serve and garnish: Remove from oven and serve as a side dish. Optionally, pile the carrots atop green goddess ranch dressing, drizzle with extra olive oil, sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs, and finish with flaky salt for an extra flavorful touch.
Notes
- Microwaving the carrots before roasting softens them, allowing for easy smashing and quicker roasting time.
- Parmesan cheese crisps up beautifully under the carrots, adding a wonderful savory crunch; be sure to use finely grated cheese for even coverage.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit if sensitive to heat.
- Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, dill, or thyme complement the flavors nicely; choose herbs that suit your meal.
- This recipe pairs well with a creamy dip like green goddess ranch but is delicious on its own as well.
- If you don’t have a microwave, you can steam or boil the carrots until tender before proceeding with seasoning and roasting.
Keywords: carrots, Parmesan, smashed carrots, roasted vegetables, side dish, easy vegetable recipe, baked carrots, gluten free side
