Bacon wrapped maple glazed carrots are the ultimate sweet-and-savory side dish that brings a smoky, crispy, and caramelized punch to your dinner table. Whether you’re planning a holiday meal, Sunday roast, or a creative weeknight dinner, these irresistible carrots will steal the show. Made with just a few simple ingredients—carrots, bacon, and maple syrup—this recipe offers a delicious contrast of textures and flavors that’s both elegant and comforting. The gentle sweetness of the carrots and maple syrup complements the savory richness of the bacon beautifully. Best of all, this crowd-pleasing recipe is incredibly easy to make!
Why You’ll Love This Bacon Wrapped Maple Glazed Carrots Recipe
- Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
- Crispy bacon paired with tender, roasted carrots
- Great as a side dish or appetizer
- Ideal for holidays, dinner parties, or casual meals
- Can be cooked on a grill, smoker, or oven
- Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor
Ingredients
- 3 pounds fresh carrots, peeled and scrubbed
- 1 ½ pounds thick-cut bacon strips
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step: How to Make Bacon Wrapped Maple Glazed Carrots
- Preheat the Grill or Oven: Set your indirect grill or smoker to 400°F. Alternatively, you can use a conventional oven at the same temperature.
- Prepare the Carrots: Clean and peel the carrots thoroughly. Choose medium-sized carrots for even cooking.
- Wrap the Carrots: Take one slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around each carrot, making sure the ends overlap slightly to stay secure.
- Season: Give each wrapped carrot a light sprinkle of salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Grill or Bake: Arrange the carrots directly on the grill grates or place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Glaze with Maple Syrup: During the final 5 minutes of cooking, brush each carrot generously with maple syrup. Allow the glaze to bubble and caramelize slightly.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the heat and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use thick-cut bacon for better coverage and crispiness.
- If your bacon doesn’t stay wrapped, secure it with a toothpick before cooking.
- Rotate the carrots halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper before baking for an extra flavor boost.
- Choose carrots of similar size for uniform cooking.
Substitutions And Variations
- Sweetener Alternatives: Swap out maple syrup with honey or brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and roast the carrots with olive oil and herbs.
- Spice it Up: Add chili flakes or drizzle with hot honey for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs into the baking pan for an aromatic touch.
- Mini Appetizers: Use baby carrots and cut the bacon in half for bite-sized versions.
Storage Instructions
Place any leftover bacon wrapped maple glazed carrots in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to three days.
To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain bacon crispiness.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 638 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Fat: 46 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
- Sodium: 910 mg
- Potassium: 1011 mg
- Fiber: 6 g
- Sugar: 27 g
- Vitamin A: 37,931 IU
- Vitamin C: 13 mg
- Calcium: 110 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
Serving Suggestions
Serve bacon wrapped maple glazed carrots as a stunning side for roast chicken, turkey, or ham. They’re also great on a holiday platter alongside mashed potatoes and stuffing. For a gourmet touch, drizzle with balsamic reduction or serve with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Wrapped Maple Glazed Carrots
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can wrap the carrots in bacon a day ahead and refrigerate them. Just bake or grill right before serving.
Can I use baby carrots?
Absolutely. Baby carrots work well, especially for appetizers. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Can these be cooked in the oven?
Definitely. Simply bake them at 400°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 25 to 30 minutes until the bacon is crisp and golden.
What type of bacon is best?
Thick-cut bacon gives the best texture and coverage, but regular bacon works too.
How do I keep the bacon from unwrapping?
Ensure the ends overlap and, if needed, secure with a toothpick to keep the bacon in place during cooking.
Conclusion
Thank you for giving this bacon wrapped maple glazed carrots recipe a try! I truly love how effortless and flavorful this dish is—from the smoky bacon to the tender caramelized carrots. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or trying something new for yourself, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. Wishing you all the best in your cooking adventures, and thank you for being part of this wonderful, food-loving community!
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Bacon Wrapped Maple Glazed Carrots
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
These Bacon Wrapped Maple Glazed Carrots are a deliciously sweet and salty side dish that’s easy to make and always a hit. With just four ingredients, they’re crispy, caramelized, and perfect for holidays, special dinners, or weekday meals.
Ingredients
3 pounds fresh carrots, peeled and scrubbed
1½ pounds thick-cut bacon strips
½ cup pure maple syrup
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill or Oven: Set your indirect grill or smoker to 400°F. Alternatively, you can use a conventional oven at the same temperature.
- Prepare the Carrots: Clean and peel the carrots thoroughly. Choose medium-sized carrots for even cooking.
- Wrap the Carrots: Take one slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around each carrot, making sure the ends overlap slightly to stay secure.
- Season: Give each wrapped carrot a light sprinkle of salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Grill or Bake: Arrange the carrots directly on the grill grates or place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Glaze with Maple Syrup: During the final 5 minutes of cooking, brush each carrot generously with maple syrup. Allow the glaze to bubble and caramelize slightly.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the heat and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
Use toothpicks to secure bacon if needed.
Sprinkle with smoked paprika or cayenne for a kick.
Swap maple syrup with honey or brown sugar if preferred.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 638 kcal
- Sugar: 27 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Protein: 16 g