Smashed Carrots with Parmesan and Smoked Paprika Recipe
Crispy Smashed Carrots offer a delicious twist on traditional roasted carrots by boiling, smashing, and roasting them to achieve tender interiors and crispy, caramelized edges. Enhanced with garlic powder, smoked paprika, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley, this flavorful side dish is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Carrots
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds
Seasoning & 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
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Boil the carrots: Place the carrot rounds in salted boiling water and cook for 10–12 minutes until they are fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly to handle safely.
- Smash the carrots: Arrange the carrots on the lined baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently press each carrot round until it flattens to about half its original thickness, creating a larger surface area.
- Season and oil: Drizzle the smashed carrots evenly with olive oil. Then sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over them, ensuring both sides are coated for balanced flavor.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the carrots to form a savory, crispy crust as they roast.
- Roast the carrots: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping the carrots halfway through to ensure even browning and crispness on both sides.
- Garnish and serve: Once roasted to a golden brown with crispy edges, remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot for optimal texture and flavor.
Notes
- Do not overcook the carrots during boiling; overcooking will make them mushy and difficult to smash.
- Use a firm flat-bottomed object for smashing to create an even thickness for uniform roasting.
- Coating both sides with olive oil and seasoning helps the carrots crisp up nicely.
- To keep cleanup easy, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore crispness; avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
- For a vegan version, substitute Parmesan cheese with plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
- Serve with garlic aioli, balsamic glaze, lemon zest, ranch dressing, or tahini for varied flavor profiles.
Keywords: smashed carrots, roasted carrots, crispy carrot recipe, healthy side dish, vegetarian side, gluten free carrots, roasted vegetables
