Lois H'S Baked Carrots
A comforting baked carrot dish with creamy mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, and crispy croutons, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. It offers savory, cheesy flavors with tender carrots.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sliced carrots until just slightly done, about 8 minutes.
- Saute onions in 3 tablespoons of butter.
- Mix together cooked carrots, sautéed onions, cream of mushroom soup, grated Cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Place the mixture in a buttered or sprayed 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter.
- Toss seasoned croutons in melted butter, then sprinkle over the carrot mixture.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding some minced garlic when sautéing the onions. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère or mozzarella for a different taste. If you want to reduce calories, consider using less butter or margarine and opting for low-fat cream of mushroom soup. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover carrots or even for a twist on classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These baked carrots make a delightful side dish for roasted chicken or grilled meats. Serve alongside a fresh salad or with a slice of Monkey Paw(Bread) for a complete meal. To enhance the presentation, garnish with fresh parsley or chives just before serving. They also pair beautifully with the Awesome Zucchini Bake for a vibrant vegetable spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the baked carrots in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheating option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lois H'S Baked Carrots contains roughly 456 calories, with 20g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (221% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1517mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen carrots instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking. Frozen carrots may need a little longer to cook than fresh ones, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to ensure they are tender.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! You can replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan cream of mushroom soup. Additionally, substitute the Cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese option or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the carrot mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the croutons and butter right before you place it in the oven to ensure they stay crunchy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).