Smashed Carrots with Parmesan and Smoked Paprika Recipe
Crispy Smashed Carrots are a delightful side dish that combines boiled then smashed carrots roasted with garlic, smoked paprika, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley for a flavorful, crispy, and tender vegetable that elevates any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Carrots
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds
Seasonings & Coating
- 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
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Boil Carrots: Boil the carrot rounds in salted water for 10–12 minutes until they are fork-tender but not mushy. Drain and let them cool slightly to allow easier handling.
- Smash Carrots: Arrange the carrots on the baking sheet and gently flatten each carrot round using the bottom of a glass or a measuring cup until about half their original thickness, ensuring even thickness for uniform roasting.
- Season and Oil: Drizzle the smashed carrots with olive oil evenly on both sides. Then sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Evenly sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the carrots to help form a golden, crisp crust while roasting.
- Roast: Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping the carrots halfway through to ensure both sides become crispy and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the crispy smashed carrots with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately for the best crispy texture.
Notes
- Do not overboil the carrots; they should be fork-tender but still firm enough to smash without falling apart.
- Use a flat-bottomed object like a glass or measuring cup for even smashing and consistent thickness of the carrots.
- Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- To keep the carrots crispy when reheating, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes rather than microwaving.
- For a vegan option, substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Serve with dips like garlic aioli, balsamic glaze, or lemon zest for brightness and additional flavor contrasts.
Keywords: smashed carrots, roasted carrots, healthy side dish, gluten free, vegetarian, parmesan carrots, smoky paprika carrots
