Description
These Crispy Parmesan Ranch Smashed Carrots are a delightful, easy-to-make side dish featuring tender baby carrots smashed and baked to golden perfection with a crispy Parmesan and ranch seasoning crust. They’re perfect for adding a flavorful twist to your vegetable dishes and make a great snack or appetizer when served with ranch dressing.
Ingredients
Scale
Carrots
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 1/2 cup water
Toppings and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 (1 ounce) packet ranch seasoning
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
Optional
- Ranch dressing for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Cook Carrots: Place the baby carrots in a microwave-safe bowl and add 1/2 cup of water. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 8 to 10 minutes until the carrots are fork-tender. Drain any excess water thoroughly.
- Prepare Carrots on Baking Sheet: Transfer the cooked carrots to the prepared baking sheet and toss them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil so they are evenly coated.
- Smash Carrots: Use a heavy-bottomed glass or jar to gently smash each carrot on the baking sheet, ensuring they are flattened but not broken apart completely.
- Add Toppings: Evenly sprinkle the smashed carrots with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and the contents of the 1/2 (1-ounce) packet of ranch seasoning to give them a flavorful crust.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the carrots for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn crispy and golden brown around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the carrots from the oven, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of finely chopped parsley for a fresh finish, and serve warm with ranch dressing on the side if desired.
Notes
- Microwaving the carrots before baking ensures that they are thoroughly cooked and tender inside.
- Be careful not to smash the carrots too much; they should remain in relatively large pieces for texture.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best flavor and crispiness.
- Feel free to adjust ranch seasoning quantity to your taste preference.
- This dish pairs well as a side with grilled meats or as a healthy snack with dipping sauces.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (approx. 100g)
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 7mg
