Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 245kcal
Picture this: It’s a sunny afternoon, and you’re hosting a gathering. The grill is fired up, and you’ve got burgers sizzling, but you know you’re missing that essential side that ties everything together. Enter bacon wrapped carrots!
These golden, crispy bites are not just delicious but also a stunning addition to any plate. Pair them with grilled meats or serve them alongside a fresh summer salad, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will rave about.
Bacon wrapped carrots are one of those dishes that never fails to impress. It's a simple yet creative way to elevate carrots—those often-overlooked veggies—transforming them into a flavor-packed treat that even the kids won't resist.
With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this dish quickly and easily, making it a fantastic option for both casual dinners and special occasions.
This delightful recipe marries tender carrots with crispy bacon, creating a combination that’s savory, sweet, and utterly satisfying. As the bacon crisps up in the oven, it releases its fat, flavoring the carrots, while a drizzle of maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness that brings everything together. The result? A beautiful dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to devour.
You’ll adore this recipe for several reasons. First, it’s irresistibly delicious; savory, sweet, and smoky all rolled into one. Second, it’s versatile—perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or even for your next potluck. Lastly, it comes together quickly. You’ll get maximum flavor without spending ages in the kitchen, giving you more time to enjoy your time with friends and family.
To craft these mouthwatering bacon wrapped carrots, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of peeled carrots, cut into 3-4 inch sections (make sure they are about ½ inch thick for even cooking)
- 1 pound of thin-sliced bacon
- ¼ cup of maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (to help with roasting)
- Fresh black pepper, to taste (for an extra flavor kick)
Ingredients From : iamhomesteader.com
While this dish comes together in a few simple steps, trust me, the magic is in the details. Let’s break down the process so you can enjoy your time in the kitchen.
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure those bacon-wrapped beauties cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
Take a piece of bacon and carefully wrap it around a carrot section, starting at the thicker end. Make sure to keep the bacon tightly wrapped, but avoid overlapping too much—this ensures it cooks evenly.
Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup (totally worth it if you ask me). Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This allows the leftover fat to drip, giving you that extra crispiness. Next, arrange your bacon-wrapped carrots on the rack, giving them enough space to breathe.
Now it’s time for the oven! Bake the carrots for about 25 minutes. You'll want to check in on them; they should be golden brown and tender.
Once they are done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a brush or spoon, glaze all sides of the carrots with maple syrup. This step is where the magic happens—sweet, sticky goodness!
Put them back into the oven for an additional 8-10 minutes. Watch closely; you want those bacon edges to get crispy without burning.
Once done, take them out and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm, and prepare for compliments!
- Choose thicker bacon for a richer flavor experience.
- If you're short on time, prepare the carrots and wrap them in advance—store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
- For added flavor, sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder before the second baking step.
- You can use a grill instead of the oven for a smoky flavor; just keep a close eye on them.
- Experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme; a sprinkle can elevate your dish even further.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, pop them back in the oven to revive that crispy texture. Microwave reheating is an option, but they won’t retain the same crunch.
1. With Grilled Meats: They pair perfectly with barbecue chicken or ribs.
2. Alongside a Fresh Salad: Balance the richness with a bright garden salad.
3. As Party Appetizers: Serve them on a platter for your next gathering—trust me; they’ll disappear fast!
4. With Dips: Offer a spicy mustard or tangy yogurt dip for a fun twist.
5. On a Cheese Board: Elevate your charcuterie with bacon-wrapped carrots for a pop of color and flavor.
1. Turkey Bacon: For a healthier option, swap out pork bacon for turkey bacon. It won’t wrap as tightly, but it will still provide lovely flavor.
2. Prosciutto: If you want to impress, use prosciutto for a gourmet twist. It crisps beautifully but will require a shorter baking time.
3. Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on the carrots before roasting for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Sweet Potatoes: Slice sweet potatoes into sticks and follow the same method for a new take on this dish.
5. Vegetarian Bacon: Opt for a plant-based bacon alternative if you want to keep things vegetarian.
Bacon wrapped carrots are so much more than just a side dish; they bring a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor to whatever meal they grace. They’re fun to make, easy to customize, and sure to make you look like a culinary genius the next time you host a gathering.
Whether you’re enjoying them hot out of the oven or cold as leftovers, you'll be reminded just how fantastic a simple dish can be. So roll up your sleeves, grab those carrots, and let’s get cooking!
Bacon wrapped carrots are one of those dishes that never fails to impress. It's a simple yet creative way to elevate carrots—those often-overlooked veggies—transforming them into a flavor-packed treat that even the kids won't resist.
Servings 6
- Choose thicker bacon for a richer flavor experience.
- If you're short on time, prepare the carrots and wrap them in advance—store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
- For added flavor, sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder before the second baking step.
- You can use a grill instead of the oven for a smoky flavor; just keep a close eye on them.
- Experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme; a sprinkle can elevate your dish even further.
Lauren Miller is a Maryland-based registered dietitian and the creator of Comfort Food Meals, where she shares easy, nutritious, and heartwarming recipes inspired by her love for comforting, home-cooked meals. With a focus on using wholesome ingredients, Lauren aims to balance indulgence with nutrition in every dish. Her goal is to help others create meals that nourish both body and soul.