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Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese

Roasted carrots with candied pecans and goat cheese feature caramelized, tender carrots from a hot 425°F roast. Finished with a honey drizzle, creamy goat cheese crumbles, glossy candied pecans, and fresh thyme.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

carrots
  • 2 lb carrots peeled and halved lengthwise
seasoning and oil
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
candied topping
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 0.5 cup pecans
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp butter
finishing
  • 3 oz goat cheese crumbled
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

Equipment

  • 1 sheet pan
  • 1 cast iron skillet

Method
 

Roast the carrots
  1. Preheat the oven to 425F. Toss the carrots with olive oil, salt, and black pepper on a sheet pan until evenly coated.
  2. Roast for 25-30 minutes at 425F, tossing halfway, until tender and caramelized. Keep the carrots spread in a single layer for better browning.
Candied pecans and assemble
  1. Melt the butter and brown sugar in a cast iron skillet over medium heat, then add the pecans. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring, until glossy and toasted.
  2. Cool the candied pecans on parchment, then roughly chop. Let them rest until they’re no longer sticky so they top cleanly.
  3. Drizzle the roasted carrots with honey, then top with goat cheese, candied pecans, and fresh thyme leaves. Serve immediately while the goat cheese is still creamy and the pecans are crisp.

Notes

For extra caramelization, make sure the carrots are halved lengthwise and laid cut-side up with space between pieces. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; rewarm on a sheet pan at 425°F for 8-10 minutes and add the thyme fresh if possible. Freezing isn’t recommended because the goat cheese texture softens. Dietary swap: use a dairy-free goat-style cheese to keep it vegetarian-friendly while keeping the same topping vibe.