Instant Pot Glazed Carrots

The Perfect Side Dish in Minutes

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious side dish that pairs well with just about any meal, these Instant Pot Glazed Carrots are a game-changer. With just a few simple ingredients and less than 10 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a sweet and buttery side dish that will impress your family and guests alike. Whether you’re serving a holiday feast, a weeknight dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to be a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Fast & Easy: Made in the Instant Pot, these carrots cook in just 4 minutes under pressure, making them perfect for busy nights.
  • Minimal Ingredients: With only 5 ingredients, this recipe is budget-friendly and hassle-free.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a regular weeknight dinner, these glazed carrots elevate any meal.
  • Kid-Friendly: The natural sweetness of carrots combined with brown sugar makes this dish irresistible to even the pickiest eaters.
  • Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, add spices, or swap ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 lb. baby carrots
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup water

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Strainer

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pressure Cook the Carrots

  1. Add all of your carrots and water to the Instant Pot.
  2. Close the lid and seal the valve by pushing it away from you.
  3. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 4 minutes.
  4. Once the cooking time is complete, manually release the pressure by bringing the valve toward you.
  5. Drain the water and remove the carrots. Set them aside.

2. Make the Glaze

  1. Press Cancel, then select Sauté mode on the Instant Pot.
  2. Add the butter, brown sugar, and salt to the pot, stirring until the butter is completely melted.
  3. Once melted, return the carrots to the pot and stir well to coat them in the glaze.

3. Serve and Enjoy!

  • Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of color and freshness.

Recipe Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few delicious variations:

  • Honey-Glazed Carrots: Replace brown sugar with honey for a richer, floral sweetness.
  • Cinnamon-Spiced Carrots: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm, festive flavor.
  • Maple Butter Carrots: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a deep caramel-like taste.
  • Savory Twist: Reduce sugar to 1 tablespoon and add garlic powder and black pepper for a more savory side dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

  • Store leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

How to Reheat

  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
  • Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a little butter if needed.
  • Oven: Warm at 350°F for 10 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

Best Food & Drink Pairings

  • Main Dishes: Serve alongside roast chicken, grilled steak, baked salmon, or meatloaf.
  • Other Sides: Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or sautéed green beans.
  • Wine Pairing: A light white wine like Chardonnay or a slightly sweet Riesling complements the sweetness of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?

Yes! Simply peel and slice regular carrots into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

You can make this on the stovetop by boiling the carrots until tender, then sautéing them with butter, brown sugar, and salt.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cook the carrots and glaze them in advance, then store them in the fridge. Reheat just before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check your labels if you have any concerns.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or coconut oil.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

These Instant Pot Glazed Carrots are a fantastic addition to any meal. They’re quick, easy, and packed with sweet, buttery goodness. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more easy and delicious recipes. Happy cooking! 🥕✨

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