Name: Crispy Smashed Carrots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Crispy Smashed Carrots are one of my favorite ways to transform simple carrots into something crave-worthy. Boiled just until tender, then gently smashed and roasted to golden perfection, these carrots offer the perfect mix of crispy edges and soft, sweet centers. A simple seasoning of garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of Parmesan takes them over the top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish turns basic carrots into something that feels totally elevated. The smashing step is the magic that creates more crispy surface area, and when I roast them, I get that irresistible caramelization on the edges. The flavor is balanced—sweet from the carrots, smoky from paprika, and savory from Parmesan. It’s a healthy, satisfying side dish that never feels boring.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I preheat my oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
I boil the carrot rounds in salted water for about 10–12 minutes, just until they’re fork-tender. I drain and let them cool slightly.
I spread the carrots out on the baking sheet and gently flatten each one using the bottom of a glass or a measuring cup.
I drizzle them with olive oil and season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Then I sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
I roast the carrots for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy around the edges.
I garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 as a side dish. It takes around 35–40 minutes total, including prep, boiling, and roasting time.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the Parmesan for nutritional yeast to keep it dairy-free while still getting that cheesy flavor. I’ve also tried adding a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick or a dash of maple syrup for a sweet-savory combo. Roasting with rosemary or thyme gives it an herby twist too.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for about 5–7 minutes to bring back that crispiness. The microwave works in a pinch, but they’ll be softer.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots instead of slicing whole ones?

Yes, I just make sure to boil them long enough to get tender before smashing. They may be slightly harder to flatten but still work well.

How do I keep the carrots from sticking to the pan?

I use parchment paper or a non-stick baking sheet and make sure the carrots are coated well in olive oil.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I boil and smash the carrots ahead of time, then roast them just before serving for the best texture.

What other cheeses can I use besides Parmesan?

I’ve used Pecorino Romano, crumbled feta, or even a little shredded cheddar depending on what I have—each one adds a different but tasty twist.

Are smashed carrots kid-friendly?

Absolutely. They’re fun to eat, naturally sweet, and can be customized with mild seasonings. Sometimes I even serve them with a yogurt or ranch dip.

Conclusion

Crispy Smashed Carrots are a smart and delicious way to add some excitement to my veggie side dishes. With their tender insides, crispy edges, and flavorful seasonings, they hit all the right notes. Whether I’m serving them alongside dinner or enjoying them as a snack, they always deliver on both taste and texture—and they’re as healthy as they are satisfying.