Crispy Parmesan Ranch Smashed Carrots are the ultimate side dish—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with irresistible flavors. Baby carrots are steamed, smashed, and seasoned with ranch seasoning and Parmesan, then roasted to golden perfection. Whether you’re serving them alongside a weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, these carrots are a simple yet crowd-pleasing option that everyone will love. The cheesy, ranch-seasoned exterior combined with the soft, tender center makes these carrots a perfect balance of texture and flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound baby carrots
½ cup water
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ (1-ounce) packet ranch seasoning
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
Ranch dressing for dipping (optional)
Directions
Steam the Carrots: Place the baby carrots in a microwave-safe bowl with ½ cup of water. Cover and microwave on high for 8–10 minutes until the carrots are fork-tender. Drain the water and let the carrots cool slightly.
Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and crisping.
Smash Gently: Toss the carrots with olive oil on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the carrots out and gently smash each one using a heavy-bottomed glass or jar. Be careful not to break them, just smash gently for the perfect texture.
Season and Cheese: Sprinkle the smashed carrots with grated Parmesan and ranch seasoning. You can mix the Parmesan and ranch seasoning together in a bowl before sprinkling it on for easier application.
Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, checking around the 18-minute mark. The carrots should turn golden and crisp on the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Garnish and Serve: Once roasted, top with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm with ranch dressing for dipping, or enjoy them as is for a flavorful, satisfying side.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Dairy-Free Version: Use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free option while still maintaining that cheesy flavor.
Add More Veggies: Try mixing in other root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips for added variety and color.
Sweet Glaze: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup before roasting for a touch of sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store any leftover carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to regain some crispiness, or microwave for a quicker option.
FAQs
Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?
Yes, you can use regular carrots. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking, and be sure to steam them until tender.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can steam and smash the carrots ahead of time, then store them in the fridge. When you’re ready, season and roast them for a fresh, crispy side dish.
How do I get the carrots crispy?
Be sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can cause the carrots to steam instead of roast. Use parchment paper for the best crisping, and allow them enough space to roast evenly.
Can I make this recipe without ranch seasoning?
Yes! You can substitute ranch seasoning with Italian seasoning or your favorite spice blend for a different flavor profile.
Do I have to use Parmesan cheese?
While Parmesan adds a delicious cheesy flavor, you can substitute it with any hard cheese, such as Pecorino Romano, or opt for a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Conclusion
These Crispy Parmesan Ranch Smashed Carrots are a deliciously simple side dish that’s full of flavor and texture. With the perfect balance of tender inside and crispy, cheesy exterior, these carrots are sure to be a favorite at your table. Easy to prepare and quick to cook, they’re the ideal addition to any meal, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy these as a tasty side dish or snack, and watch them become a staple in your kitchen!
Crispy Parmesan Ranch Smashed Carrots are the ultimate side dish—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with irresistible flavors. Baby carrots are steamed, smashed, and seasoned with ranch seasoning and Parmesan, then roasted to golden perfection. A perfect balance of texture and flavor, these carrots make a crowd-pleasing option for any meal.
Ingredients
1 pound baby carrots
½ cup water
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ (1-ounce) packet ranch seasoning
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
Ranch dressing for dipping (optional)
Instructions
Place the baby carrots in a microwave-safe bowl with ½ cup of water. Cover and microwave on high for 8–10 minutes until the carrots are fork-tender. Drain the water and let the carrots cool slightly.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Toss the carrots with olive oil on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the carrots out and gently smash each one using a heavy-bottomed glass or jar.
Sprinkle the smashed carrots with grated Parmesan and ranch seasoning. Mix the Parmesan and ranch seasoning together in a bowl for easier application.
Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, checking around the 18-minute mark. The carrots should turn golden and crisp on the edges.
Once roasted, top with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm with ranch dressing for dipping, or enjoy as is.
Notes
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
Try mixing in other root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips for added variety.
Drizzle with honey or maple syrup before roasting for a sweet glaze.
