Bookmark
These Easy Slow Cooker Carrots make for a simple and flavorful side dish that complements nearly any main course. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal hands on time, you can have tender, subtly sweet carrots ready to serve alongside chicken, steak, or your favorite comfort foods. The slow cooker gently melds the flavors, giving the carrots a perfect balance of savory and sweet with a hint of spice from garlic and paprika.
My husband actually started making these because he loves carrots cooked this way, and now we end up eating them nearly every week. The flavors are mild enough for kids but still flavorful enough for adults to enjoy.
Ingredients
- Carrots: Two pounds of raw carrots peeled and sliced into rounds for even cooking and a nice texture
- Butter: Two tablespoons of salted butter melted to bring richness and help carry the spices
- Brown sugar: One tablespoon of packed brown sugar adds just the right amount of natural sweetness
- Salt: Three quarters teaspoon of salt enhances the natural flavors of the carrots
- Black pepper: Half teaspoon of black pepper for a subtle kick without overpowering
- Garlic powder: Half teaspoon of garlic powder to add depth and warmth
- Paprika: Half teaspoon of paprika contributes a gentle smoky note choose sweet or smoked paprika depending on your preference
- Parsley: Optional fresh or dried chopped parsley for a fresh garnish and color contrast
Instructions
- Slicing the Carrots:
- Peel the carrots thoroughly and slice them into about half inch thick rounds. Cutting on the diagonal is a nice way to increase surface area for better flavor absorption. Discard any peels and ends, ensuring you start with clean pieces.
- Coating the Carrots:
- Place the sliced carrots in the slow cooker. Pour the melted salted butter evenly over the carrots so they are nicely coated. Sprinkle on the brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Use a rubber spatula or cooking spoon to stir gently until every piece is evenly seasoned.
- Cooking in the Slow Cooker:
- Put the lid on and cook on high heat for one and a half to two hours, or on low for two and a half to three hours. Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker model, so begin checking at the earlier time to prevent overcooking. The carrots should be tender but not mushy when done.
- Finishing Touches:
- If desired, sprinkle chopped parsley over the cooked carrots just before serving to add a fresh herbal note and a pop of color.
I love how the paprika adds a subtle smoky undertone without overwhelming the carrots. We often eat these with a simple roasted chicken, and the combination has become a comforting family favorite that always hits the spot on busy weeknights.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the carrots moist. These also freeze beautifully; portion them into freezer safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have salted butter use unsalted and add a pinch of extra salt to taste. Brown sugar can be swapped with coconut sugar or honey for a different kind of sweetness though honey may make the dish a bit more moist. Fresh thyme or rosemary can replace paprika for a more herbaceous flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these carrots as a side to grilled steaks or roasted chicken. They also pair well with meatloaf, pork chops, or even veggie based dishes like grain bowls or hearty salads. For a meal with roots in Southern cooking try them alongside cornbread and greens.
These slow cooker carrots are an easy crowd pleasing side that pairs with many mains. Try serving them with roasted chicken for a comforting weeknight meal.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What is the best way to prepare the carrots?
Peel and slice the carrots into ½ inch thick rounds, cutting diagonally if preferred to maximize surface area for seasoning absorption.
- → How long should I cook the carrots in the slow cooker?
Cook on high for 1½ to 2 hours or on low for 2½ to 3 hours until the carrots are tender but not mushy.
- → Can I use baby carrots instead of sliced carrots?
Baby carrots can be used but may result in a different texture and cook time; slicing regular carrots provides more consistent results.
- → What spices enhance the flavor of these slow cooker carrots?
A simple blend of brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika creates a balanced sweet and savory flavor.
- → Can additional herbs be added?
Yes, herbs like fresh or dried parsley, rosemary, or thyme are great additions to customize the flavor.
- → Is there a way to adjust this dish for larger portions?
Doubling the ingredient quantities works well, but monitor cooking time as slow cooker heat may vary.