Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese

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Dive into the flavors of fall with these Roasted Carrots topped with sweet Candied Pecans and tangy Goat Cheese. A side dish that’s not only bursting with color but also rich in taste. Perfect for cozy dinners or holiday gatherings, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress.

roasted carrots with candied pecans and goat cheese on a large white platter.

Fall is here, and I’m diving deep into those warm and comforting recipes we all crave. Carrots? They’re not just for snacking or salads anymore. Ever thought of giving those humble carrots a makeover? I’m talking roasted to perfection, draped in candied pecans, and sprinkled with a touch of goat cheese. Yep, it’s as dreamy as it sounds!

Get ready to be wowed with this Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese recipe. It’s the kind of side that might just steal the show at your next dinner! I think this would make the perfect thanksgiving side dish or honestly any fall side dish recipe.

roasted carrots with candied pecans and goat cheese with fresh thyme.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Sweet & Savory Symphony: Dive into a melody of flavors with the sweetness of brown sugar and maple syrup balanced perfectly with the rich depth of pecans and the tang of goat cheese. And let’s not forget that hint of cinnamon and fresh thyme that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Serving this for a cozy family dinner? Check! Holiday gathering? Double check! Potluck with friends (aka Friendsgiving)? You bet! No matter the occasion, these carrots will shine and have everyone coming back for seconds.
  • Seasonal Stars: Fall is in the air, and with it comes the crave-worthy flavors of earthy roasted carrots, sweet candied pecans, and that creamy crumble of goat cheese. This dish literally tastes like autumn on a plate!

So grab your loose-fitting pants and get ready for a feast. Let’s start off by gathering the ingredients you’ll need to make this fabulous fall side dish!

a plate and fork with roasted carrots with candied pecans and goat cheese.

Ingredients:

Let’s begin by gathering up the ingredients to make these roasted carrots. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • carrots 
  • brown sugar
  • brown sugar
  • unsalted butter
  • salt and pepper
  • ground cinnamon
  • crumbled  goat cheese 
  • fresh thyme

You’ll also need these to make the candied pecans:

  • butter
  • maple syrup
  • brown sugar
  • pecan halves
  • flaked sea salt

Let’s put this dish together.

roasted carrots sprinkled with candied pecans and goat cheese.

How to Make Roasted Carrots:

I’ll walk you through the recipe here, but you can find the full details and ingredient list in a printable recipe card at the end of this post.

  1. I began by oven roasting carrots with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt and pepper.
hand adding salt to carrots on a sheet pan.
  1. While the carrots roasted, in another pan I sautéd pecans with a bit more butter, brown sugar, maple syrup (for that great fall flavor) and a sprinkle of flaked sea salt.
carrots on a sheet pan with seasonings and butter.
candied pecans in a bowl.
  1. Once the carrots were fork tender, they came out of the oven. I plated them and sprinkled them with goat cheese crumbles and the candied pecans I had just made.
  2. For more color and flavor, I finished things off with fresh thyme leaves.
roasted carrots with candied pecans and goat cheese served on a platter.

That’s it! Perfection.

My Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese were exactly what I had in my mind when I saw that plate of carrots at the dinner. I’m thrilled I was able to recreate what I had imagined.

The tangy goat cheese compliments the sweetness of the pecans wonderfully. The sprinkle of thyme is the perfect finishing touch and a compliment to the season.

roasted carrots with candied pecans and goat cheese side dish on a plate.

Recipe Variations

Enjoy this recipe and want to try a different variation? You’ve got it! Here are a few ideas to get your started.

  • Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of chili oil over the roasted carrots before serving.
  • Vegan Twist: Swap the goat cheese for vegan feta or cashew-based cheese. For the candied pecans, use coconut oil instead of butter.
  • Nut Alternatives: If pecans aren’t your thing or you’re just looking to mix things up, try candied walnuts or almonds instead.
  • Roasted Veggie Medley: Introduce other root veggies to the party. Parsnips, beets, or sweet potatoes can be roasted alongside the carrots for a vibrant and varied dish.
  • Citrusy Fresh: Add a zesty twist with a sprinkle of orange or lemon zest over the roasted carrots. The citrus notes can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory components.
  • Cheese Variations: If goat cheese isn’t up your alley, try shaved Parmesan, crumbled feta, or even chunks of creamy brie. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor to the dish.
gold tongs taking a serving of roasted carrots with candied pecans and goat cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?

Totally! Baby carrots are a great substitute. They might roast a tad quicker, so just keep an eye on them. That golden-brown caramelization is what we’re aiming for!

I’m out of maple syrup, any alternatives?

No sweat, friend! Honey works wonders as a substitute. You could also use agave nectar or even a touch of molasses for a deeper flavor.

Not a fan of goat cheese, what else can I use?

That’s the beauty of cooking – make it your own! Feta cheese or even blue cheese can offer a similar tangy kick. Or if you prefer something creamier, a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan or ricotta could be delish!

How long do these roasted carrots keep?

These babies taste best straight out of the oven. But if you do have leftovers, pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll be good for 2-3 days. Just give them a little reheat before serving!

Can I prep the candied pecans ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make those pecans in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. It’s a lifesaver, especially if you’re prepping for a big meal or gathering.

What other herbs can I use besides thyme?


Rosemary is a great alternative with its aromatic and woody essence. Or even a sprinkle of parsley for some fresh vibes. Don’t be afraid to play around and find what tingles your taste buds!

As you have probably noticed, something sweet can be a nice complement to a savory meal. This is why people often serve something like candied yams or sweet butternut squash at Thanksgiving.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s a bit different, give these carrots a try. They are simple to make, and the flavor combination is on point.

Happy cooking!

fork taking a bite of roasted carrots with candied pecans and goat cheese.

More Holiday Side You’ll Love

I truly hope you give these roasted carrots a try – they’re a game-changer. It’s amazing how a few ingredients can elevate a dish from everyday to extraordinary. And hey, if you do whip it up, please leave a comment and a 5-star rating below. 

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Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese - fall Thanksgiving side dish recipes

Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecan and Goat Cheese

These Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecan and Goat Cheese are a delicious and flavorful side dish for the fall and holiday season.
5 from 14 votes
Print Pin Rate
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: candied, carrots, goat cheese, holiday, roasted carrots
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 434kcal

Ingredients

Candied Pecans:

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
  • Then line a baking sheet with foil. Place the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. Sprinkle with the brown sugar and evenly distribute the pats of butter. Also, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
  • Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the carrots are just fork tender. During baking, turn the carrots 3 or 4 times.
  • While the carrots are roasting, prepare the candied pecans by melting the butter in a small pan on low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the maple syrup, brown sugar, and pecans. Stir about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  • Remove the candied pecans from the heat and stir in the flaked sea salt. Set aside.
  • Once the carrots are cooked, put them in a serving dish. Sprinkle them evenly with the candied pecans and goat cheese. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 434kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 39mg | Sodium: 700mg | Potassium: 613mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 34g | Vitamin A: 25930IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 126mg | Iron: 2mg

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