Description
Crispy and Fun Smashed Carrots are a deliciously unique way to enjoy carrots, combining a tender interior with a crispy, golden exterior. Boiled until just fork-tender, these carrots are smashed flat, seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and black pepper, then topped with a savory parmesan-panko crust before roasting to perfection in the oven. Perfect as a flavorful side dish or a healthy snack, garnished with fresh herbs and served with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Carrots
- 1 lb medium carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
Seasoning & Toppings
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Garnish & Serving
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
- Dipping sauce of choice
Instructions
- Boil the Carrots: Place the peeled and cut carrots in a pot, cover with water, add a pinch of salt, and boil for 10–12 minutes until they are fork-tender but still hold their shape without becoming mushy.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Smash the Carrots: Spread the boiled carrots evenly on the baking sheet. Using a masher or the flat bottom of a glass, gently press down on each carrot piece to smash it flat but not completely broken apart.
- Season the Carrots: Drizzle the smashed carrots evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over them to impart a bold, savory flavor.
- Add the Parmesan-Panko Topping: Mix the grated parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs together. Lightly press this mixture onto the top of each smashed carrot to create a crispy coating once roasted.
- Roast to Crispness: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20–25 minutes until the carrots develop a golden, crispy crust. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes while watching closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the carrots from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible snack or side dish.
Notes
- Boil the carrots until just tender to avoid mushy smashed carrots.
- Use fresh parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in the topping.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more paprika or garlic powder if desired.
- Broiling at the end is optional but adds an extra crunch to the topping.
- Try different dipping sauces like garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or honey mustard for variety.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley enhance freshness but can be substituted with rosemary or chives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: smashed carrots, roasted carrots, crispy carrots, healthy side dish, vegetarian side, parmesan panko topping
