Roasted Potatoes and Carrots

WRITER BYJessica

POSTEDJuly 11, 2025

There's something deeply satisfying about pulling a tray of roasted potatoes and carrots out of the oven, cooked until golden brown, with caramelized edges, and the kind of aroma that draws everyone into the kitchen. This is a perfect side dish: simple enough for an easy weeknight meal, yet elegant enough to earn a spot on your Thanksgiving side dish spread.

I've been making this one-pan recipe for years, testing it in my own kitchen and sharing it with family and friends at countless dinners. Over time, I've fine-tuned the flavors, cooking time, and roasting tips so it comes out right every time. Friends who've tried it often say: "I didn't know a simple side dish could taste this good."

What I love most is how you can customize it to your tastes. Switch up the herbs, swap the olive oil for a flavored variety, add a pinch of spice or a drizzle of honey—it's versatile, reliable, and always a hit.

WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS

What I love about this recipe is how effortlessly it turns simple ingredients into a comforting, flavorful dish that always impresses. This roasted potatoes and carrots recipe works because:

It uses simple, inexpensive ingredients you likely already have.
It's a quick and easy side dish, requiring only 10 minutes of prep and minimal effort (hands-off recipe for hectic days).
The easy clean-up, thanks to parchment paper, makes it ideal for busy evenings.
The combination of savory potatoes and the carrots' natural sweetness creates a perfect flavor balance.
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and keeps nutrients, a technique recommended by Food & Wine chefs.

If you're looking for a weeknight dinner side dish that's great for meal prep or an impressive addition to your roster of vegetable side dishes, you'll love this recipe.

WHAT POTATOES ARE BEST FOR ROASTING?

When choosing what potatoes are good for roasting, go for ones that hold their shape and develop a fluffy interior with a crisp outside. Baby red potatoes, Yukon Golds, and fingerlings are excellent options.

Avoid russets, which are better for baking or mashing, as they tend to dry out. Sweet potatoes are also a great choice if you prefer a slightly sweeter, more nutritious twist on the classic roasted potatoes and carrots recipe.

For more insights on the best potatoes for roasting and why chefs recommend these varieties, see this guide from EatingWell.

INGREDIENTS FOR ROASTED POTATOES AND CARROTS

(Full measurements are listed in the printable recipe card below.)

1-pound whole carrots, peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces
1-pound small potatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 tablespoon honey
½ teaspoon dried oregano
1½ teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Cooking spray

HOW TO ROAST POTATOES AND CARROTS (INSTRUCTIONS)

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray (if you prefer, you can also line the sheet with foil for even easier clean-up).

In a large bowl, combine the halved potatoes and sliced carrots. For an extra layer of flavor, you can also toss in some sliced onions (optional).

Drizzle them with olive oil, melted butter, and honey. Add oregano, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika over the vegetables (I sometimes add garlic powder, too).

Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated.

Spread the vegetables in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause steaming rather than roasting.

Roast for 30–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and golden.

Serve immediately as a weeknight meal or your go-to easy side dish.

TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS FROM MY EXPERIENCE

Over the years, I've encountered all the little pitfalls you might face. Here are my top roasting tips for the best recipe every time:

If vegetables aren't crisping, the pan may be overcrowded—use two pans if needed.
If they're too dry, drizzle a bit more olive oil halfway through.
To get an even color, flip the vegetables once during cooking.
Carrots too firm? Slice them thinner so carrots roast evenly with potatoes.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH THESE EASY ROASTED POTATOES AND CARROTS?

This dish is so versatile—it's why it's one of my favorite vegetable side dishes. Here's how to serve roast potatoes and carrots:

With roasted chicken thighs and gravy as a weeknight dinner side dish.
Alongside a pork tenderloin and green beans for a simple side dish meal.
Next to turkey and stuffing, as a Thanksgiving side dish.
Served over a quinoa or farro bowl for a vegetarian-friendly main.
Topped with feta and fresh herbs for a light lunch.

STORING AND REHEATING ROASTED POTATOES AND CARROTS

I've found through plenty of trial and error that this roasted vegetable side dish is excellent for meal prep and keeps well:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on a sheet pan at 350°F (175°C) to regain their irresistible crisp exterior.
Freeze in portions and reheat straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through.