Get ready to transform the humble carrot into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone at your dinner table begging for seconds! These Bacon Wrapped Maple Glazed Carrots are not just a side dish—they're a culinary experience that perfectly balances crispy, smoky bacon with the natural sweetness of maple syrup and tender carrots. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply elevate your weeknight meal, this recipe promises to be a game-changer that turns ordinary vegetables into an irresistible delicacy.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 8 slices bacon
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to catch any drippings and make cleanup easier.
- Wash the baby carrots thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. If the carrots are large, you may want to trim or halve them to ensure even cooking.
- Season the carrots with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cut each bacon slice in half lengthwise to create thinner strips that will wrap around the carrots more easily.
- Wrap each seasoned carrot individually with a strip of bacon, slightly overlapping the bacon to secure it. Place the wrapped carrots seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Pour the maple syrup into a small bowl. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat each bacon-wrapped carrot with maple syrup, reserving some for later glazing.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning the carrots halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the carrots again with the remaining maple syrup to create a glossy, caramelized exterior.
- Remove from the oven when the bacon is crisp and the carrots are tender. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the glaze to set.
- Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme if desired. Serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- Choose thin bacon strips to ensure they crisp up evenly and wrap smoothly around the carrots.
- Pat carrots completely dry before wrapping to help the bacon adhere better and prevent sogginess.
- Use pure maple syrup for the best caramelization and deepest flavor profile.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet—give each wrapped carrot space to ensure even cooking and crispy bacon.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the seasoning for a subtle kick.
- Let the carrots rest briefly after cooking to allow the glaze to set and flavors to meld.
- For a presentation wow factor, garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 310kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
