Crispy Smashed Carrots Recipe

Introduction

Crispy smashed carrots are a delightful twist on a simple vegetable side dish. Tender on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside, they combine savory spices and Parmesan for a flavorful bite. This easy recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Boil the carrot rounds in salted water for 10–12 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
3. Step 3: Arrange the carrots on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently press down each round to flatten it slightly.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the carrots with olive oil and season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
5. Step 5: Roast the carrots in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the edges are golden and crispy.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, spread the carrots out to avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet.
• Try adding a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
• Use fresh garlic minced instead of garlic powder for a stronger garlic flavor.

Storage

Store leftover crispy smashed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to help maintain their crispiness rather than using a microwave, which may soften them.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots instead of sliced carrots?

While you can use baby carrots, they may take less time to soften. Adjust boiling and roasting times accordingly to prevent overcooking.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

You can substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika or a small pinch of ground cumin for a different but complementary flavor.

Crispy Smashed Carrots Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 101 reviews

Enjoy a delicious twist on classic carrots with this recipe for Crispy Smashed Carrots. Boiled until tender, smashed to flatten, then roasted with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese for a perfect crispy texture and savory flavor. A quick and easy side dish that pairs well with any meal.

• Author: Toney
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Carrots

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds

Seasonings and Garnish

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Boil Carrots: Place the peeled and thickly sliced carrot rounds into salted boiling water and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until they become fork-tender. Drain the carrots and let them cool slightly to handle.
3. Smash Carrots: Arrange the cooked carrots on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently press down on each carrot round to flatten it just slightly, increasing surface area for crisping.
4. Season and Add Cheese: Drizzle the smashed carrots with olive oil, then evenly sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and the grated Parmesan cheese over them.
5. Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the carrots for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the carrots from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot as a tasty, crispy side dish.

Notes

• Use carrots of similar size to ensure even cooking.
• Be gentle when smashing to avoid breaking the carrots completely apart.
• For extra crispiness, broil the carrots for 1–2 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.
• Can be prepared ahead and reheated in the oven for the best texture.
• Parmesan can be substituted with a vegan cheese option for a dairy-free alternative.

Keywords: Crispy carrots, smashed carrots recipe, roasted carrots, parmesan carrots, healthy side dish, easy vegetable recipe