These Easy Copycat Cheddar’s Carrots are tender, sweet, and buttery, just like the restaurant version. They make a simple, flavorful side that pairs perfectly with any dinner.
This Copycat Cheddar’s Carrots recipe brings the restaurant favorite straight to your kitchen with minimal effort.
Sweet, tender carrots are cooked to perfection and coated in a buttery glaze that makes every bite irresistible. Whether as a side for a weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal, these carrots deliver the perfect balance of flavor and simplicity that everyone will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
- Sweet and Tender Carrots – perfectly cooked for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Buttery Glaze – adds rich, savory-sweet flavor with every bite.
- Quick and Easy – ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Kid-Friendly – even picky eaters love the natural sweetness.
- Versatile Side Dish – pairs beautifully with chicken, beef, or holiday meals.
Ingredients Needed
- Carrots, peeled and sliced – sweet, tender orange vegetable for cooking
- Butter – rich, creamy fat for flavor and glazing carrots
- Brown sugar – adds sweetness and caramelized depth to carrots
- Salt – enhances natural sweetness and balances flavor perfectly
- Black pepper – freshly ground, mild heat for subtle spiciness
- Fresh parsley, chopped – bright, herbaceous garnish to finish the dish
How To Make Cheddar’s Carrots
Step One: Peel and slice your carrots into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Step Two: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sliced carrots and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. Sprinkle in brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the carrots evenly, letting the sugar melt slightly to create a light glaze.
Step Three: Add a small splash of water to the skillet, cover, and simmer for another 5–7 minutes, or until the carrots are tender but still slightly firm. Remove the lid, let any remaining liquid reduce slightly, and stir in freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while warm and glossy.
Easy Copycat Cheddar’s Carrots Recipe Tips
- Choose the right carrots: Smaller, thinner carrots cook more evenly and absorb the buttery glaze better than larger ones.
- Cut evenly: Slice the carrots into uniform pieces so they cook at the same rate.
- Use real butter: It gives the richest flavor and helps the brown sugar glaze stick beautifully.
- Don’t overcook: Cook just until tender; overcooked carrots lose their vibrant color and texture.
- Add a touch of seasoning: A pinch of salt and black pepper enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots.
- Glaze at the end: After simmering, let the sugar and butter glaze the carrots for a shiny, restaurant-style finish.
Storing And Reheating Instructions
- Storing: Place cooled carrots in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Keep the glaze intact by stirring gently before serving.
- Freezing: Spread cooked carrots on a baking sheet and freeze for 1–2 hours (flash freeze) to prevent clumping. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low-medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain the glaze. You can also microwave in a covered dish for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway, until hot.
Easy Copycat Cheddar’s Carrots Recipe Faqs
Can I make Cheddar’s carrots ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the carrots a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I use frozen carrots instead of fresh? Absolutely. Frozen carrots work well—just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they become tender without overcooking.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free? Yes! Substitute the butter with plant-based butter or oil and the brown sugar for coconut sugar if desired. The flavor will remain sweet and delicious.
How do I keep the glaze from being too runny? Reduce the liquid slightly while simmering the carrots, or let the glaze thicken for a minute or two before serving. This ensures a perfect sticky coating.
Can I add other seasonings to the carrots? Sure! A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a touch of ginger can enhance the sweetness and add a warm, comforting flavor.
More Cheddar’s Restaurant Copycat Recipes
Cheddar’s Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Cheddars Honey Butter Croissants
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Copycat Cheddar’s Carrots {Super Easy Copycat Recipe}
Description
Ingredients
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, optional
Instructions
- Peel and slice 1 pound baby carrots into 1/4-inch thick rounds or diagonals for even cooking.
- In a medium saucepan, add carrots and just enough water to cover. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly tender.
- Drain carrots and return to the pan. Add b3 tablespoons butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper and optional 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Stir gently over medium heat until butter melts and carrots are coated in a glossy glaze, about 3–5 minutes.
- Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy immediately. The carrots should be tender but still slightly firm, with a sweet, sticky glaze.
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Spoon
Nutrition
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