These easy carrots with balsamic and thyme are simple to make on the stovetop with just 4 ingredients. They're the perfect simple side dish for weeknight dinners! (gluten-free)

balsamic glazed carrots with thyme in a white bowl.

For times when you're in need of a simple but tasty side dish, I have the perfect recipe! I love roasted veggies probably more than a person should, but sometimes I'm just too lazy to clean a baking dish. For nights when I'm trying to get dinner on the table quickly and easily, I turn to these balsamic thyme carrots made on the stovetop!

Why You'll Love These Carrots

These carrots are ever so slightly sweet, savory, tangy, and are oh-so-easy to make. Just boil the carrots and stir in 3 ingredients. That's it! You don't have to heat up the oven (great for warmer days!) and you don't even have to peel the carrots if you don't want to. Using a balsamic reduction eliminates an extra ingredient and a little time. They're delicious, healthy, and super low maintenance - perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

How To Make Stovetop Balsamic Thyme Carrots

collage showing steps to making balsamic thyme carrots on the stovetop.

Cut carrots into 1-inch pieces, boil and drain them.
Stir butter, balsamic reduction, salt, and thyme into the hot carrots to form a luxurious glaze.
Enjoy!

Tips and Recipe Variations

Balsamic reduction can be found at most grocery stores near the vinegar or in the pasta aisle. (Or online.)
If you don't have balsamic reduction, you could make your own or simply use 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar and 1 teaspoon of honey or another liquid sweetener. The glaze won't be as thick but it will still taste great.
You can swap the thyme for another fresh herb, such as rosemary or parsley.
If you like softer carrots, boil them for a few minutes longer.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 4 days.

overhead view of balsamic glazed carrots with thyme in a white bowl.

More Easy Side Dishes You'll Love

Did you make this recipe? Please leave a star rating in the comments!

Stovetop Balsamic Thyme Carrots

closeup of carrots in a white bowl with thyme and balsamic glaze.

Print Recipe

These easy carrots with balsamic and thyme are simple to make on the stovetop with just 4 ingredients. They're the perfect simple side dish for weeknight dinners! (gluten-free)

Author: Kaleigh
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 3-4 servings 1x
Category: side dish
Method: stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb carrots (about 6-8 medium carrots)
1 tbsp butter
2 tbsp balsamic reduction
⅛ tsp salt
1 tsp fresh thyme

Instructions

Wash carrots. Peel them if you prefer, I usually don't. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
Add carrots to a pot and cover with water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat and boil until fork-tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Drain carrots and return to the pot. Add butter, balsamic reduction, salt and thyme. Stir to coat. Turn the heat back on low if necessary to melt the butter.
Serve hot.

Notes

If you don't have balsamic reduction, you can use 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar and 1 teaspoon honey or other liquid sweetener. Or you can make your own reduction.
You can swap the thyme for another fresh herb, such as rosemary or parsley.
If you like softer carrots, boil them for a few minutes longer.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 4 days.

Keywords: stovetop balsamic carrots, stovetop balsamic glazed carrots, boiled carrots with balsamic