These Best Maple Bacon Carrots are a fun and tasty side dish! Sweet maple syrup and crispy bacon make plain carrots shine like stars at dinner time.
It’s hard to resist the sweet and salty combo. I might even eat them for breakfast—who said bacon and veggies can’t go together anytime? 😄
Making them is super easy: just roast the carrots, toss in maple syrup and bacon, and watch them caramelize. They add a yummy twist to any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Fresh carrots are a must for this recipe. I like to use whole carrots for better texture over baby carrots. If you’re short on carrots, parsnips work as a nice alternative since they also get sweet when roasted.
Bacon: Go for thick-cut bacon for this dish. It provides a nice bite and holds up better in the oven. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon can work too, but it might not crisp up as much.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup offers the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, agave nectar or honey could work as substitutes. Just keep in mind that they may alter the sweetness slightly.
Brown Sugar: This adds extra sweetness and a bit of caramelization. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a little molasses or coconut sugar for a different flavor.
Smoked Paprika: This is optional but adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, try using regular paprika or even a pinch of chili powder for a slight kick.
How Do I Wrap Carrots in Bacon Without It Unraveling?
Wrapping bacon around the carrots takes a bit of finesse, but it’s pretty simple! Start at one end of the carrot and spiral the bacon around it closely. Make sure to overlap the bacon slightly, which helps it stay in place during baking.
- If the bacon doesn’t seem secure, use a toothpick to hold the end down.
- Wrap tightly but not too tight; you want the bacon to crisp and not squeeze the carrot too much.
- As you place the bacon-wrapped carrots on the baking sheet, keep them spaced a bit to ensure even cooking.
Best Maple Bacon Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Carrots:
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 8 slices of bacon
For The Glaze:
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, making a total time of around 40 minutes. Get ready for a delicious side dish that’s simple and quick to put together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Everything Ready:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help keep the carrots from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until well mixed. This glaze is what will give your carrots a delightful flavor!
3. Wrap the Carrots:
Take each carrot stick and wrap a slice of bacon around it, starting at one end and slightly overlapping as you go. If needed, secure the end of the bacon with a toothpick to keep it in place. It’s okay to get your hands a little dirty—it’s all part of the fun!
4. Bake the Carrots:
Once all the carrots are wrapped, place them on the prepared baking sheet. Now, take your delicious maple glaze and brush it generously over each bacon-wrapped carrot. This will add an extra layer of sweetness as they cook.
5. Cooking Time:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when the bacon is crispy and the carrots are tender. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Finishing Touches:
After baking, remove the carrots from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If you have any leftover glaze, drizzle it over the baked carrots for an extra sweet touch. Finally, garnish with chopped green onions before serving—this adds a lovely fresh pop of color!
Enjoy your deliciously sweet and savory maple bacon carrots! They’re sure to be a hit at your table.
Can I Use Other Types of Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While carrots are a great choice, you can also try this recipe with parsnips or asparagus for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary. For thicker vegetables, increase the baking time slightly until they’re tender.
What If I Don’t Have Bacon?
No worries! You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option, or try using prosciutto for a delicious, crispy alternative. Just remember to check the cooking time as different types of meat may crisp up differently in the oven.
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore the crunchiness.
Can I Make the Glaze in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the maple syrup glaze a day ahead of time. Just store it in a sealed container in the fridge. When ready to use, give it a good stir and brush it over the carrots just before baking.
