There’s something magical about roasting vegetables—transforming humble produce into a caramelized, flavorful delight. Among the most beloved roasted dishes are beets and carrots, and when you add a touch of maple syrup, the result is a sweet-savory side that brightens any meal. The Maple Roasted Beets and Carrots recipe is simple, yet it brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen with minimal effort.
I first tried this combination on a chilly fall evening, craving something warm, colorful, and healthy. The maple syrup enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables, while thyme adds aromatic depth, and a hint of salt and pepper balances everything perfectly. Whether served alongside roasted chicken, a hearty grain bowl, or as a centerpiece for a holiday spread, this dish never disappoints. Even picky eaters tend to fall in love with its tender texture and caramelized edges.
With just a few basic ingredients and under an hour of oven time, this recipe is an effortless way to elevate your weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its vibrant colors, rich flavors, and hint of sweetness make it a standout on any table.
Recipe Overview
Maple Roasted Beets and Carrots is a vibrant, oven-roasted side dish featuring tender, caramelized root vegetables with a subtle sweet and herbaceous profile. Roasted to perfection and lightly seasoned with thyme, salt, and pepper, this recipe offers a perfect balance of natural sweetness and savory depth. Optional crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy contrast, creating a dish that’s both beautiful and delicious.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s everything you need to create this easy, flavorful roasted vegetable dish.
Ingredients
- 4 medium beets, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Optional: Crumbled feta or goat cheese for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). A high temperature helps achieve that perfect caramelization on the edges of the vegetables.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
Peel the beets and carrots and chop them into similar sizes—this ensures even roasting. Bite-sized pieces work best for quick, uniform cooking. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Toss with Oil and Maple Syrup
Drizzle olive oil and maple syrup over the vegetables. Use a spatula or clean hands to toss everything evenly, making sure each piece is coated with the sweet-savory mixture.
4. Season with Herbs and Spices
Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and thyme over the vegetables. Toss again to distribute the seasonings evenly. The thyme adds an aromatic, slightly earthy flavor that complements the natural sweetness.
5. Roast the Vegetables
Spread the coated vegetables in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 35–45 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Check for doneness by piercing with a fork—the vegetables should be tender but not mushy, with lightly caramelized edges.
6. Serve
Remove the vegetables from the oven and let them cool slightly. For added flavor and creaminess, sprinkle with crumbled feta or goat cheese before serving. This optional step adds a tangy contrast to the naturally sweet, roasted vegetables.
Tip: Leftover roasted vegetables taste amazing cold in salads or gently reheated as a side dish the next day.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Vegetable Variations
- Add parsnips, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash for a mixed-root vegetable medley.
- Roasting red onions or garlic alongside the beets and carrots adds extra sweetness and depth.
2. Sweetness Adjustments
- For a lighter touch, reduce maple syrup slightly.
- For a bolder caramelized flavor, drizzle a little extra maple syrup in the last 5 minutes of roasting.
3. Herb Options
- Fresh thyme works beautifully, but rosemary, sage, or tarragon can add unique aromatics.
- Mix fresh herbs in just before serving for a brighter flavor.
4. Cheese & Garnish
- Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds creaminess and tang.
- Toasted walnuts or pecans can provide a crunchy contrast.
5. Make Ahead
- Chop vegetables ahead of time and store in the fridge. Toss with oil, maple syrup, and herbs just before roasting for quick prep.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10–15 minutes to restore some crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside roasted chicken, pork, or fish for a complete meal.
- Use as a topping for grain bowls or salads.
- Perfect for holiday spreads, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
Maple Roasted Beets and Carrots transforms simple root vegetables into a flavorful, vibrant side dish that balances sweet, savory, and aromatic notes. The natural sweetness of the vegetables enhanced by maple syrup, paired with thyme’s earthy aroma, makes it a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Optional crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy touch, making this recipe a crowd-pleaser at any table.
Easy, healthy, and visually stunning, this roasted vegetable dish elevates weeknight dinners, holiday spreads, or casual gatherings with minimal effort. A simple recipe with impressive results—your taste buds and guests will thank you.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen beets or carrots?
Fresh vegetables are recommended for roasting, but frozen vegetables can work—just reduce oven time slightly and pat dry before roasting.
2. How do I keep beets from bleeding too much?
Peel and cut them evenly, and toss with oil before roasting. Roasting separately from very light-colored vegetables helps prevent color transfer.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, roast the vegetables and store in the fridge. Reheat in the oven before serving or enjoy cold in salads.
4. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to avoid mushiness.
5. Can I add other seasonings?
Absolutely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor depending on your desired taste profile.
Sweet, savory, and tender, this Maple Roasted Beets and Carrots recipe is a colorful, easy side dish. Roasted with thyme and maple syrup for perfect caramelization.
