Slow Cooker Balsamic Carrots

Slow cooker balsamic carrots require a whopping 5 ingredients and two steps to prepare. And let me tell you, the flavor is definitely there!

Why this recipe works

Slow cooker balsamic carrots are coated in a caramelized glaze that adds a pop of tangy sweetness. That glossy coating plays extra well with the natural sugars that carrots release as they cook. Now, balsamic carrots aren’t quite as sweet as typical glazed carrots, though hats off to the balsamic, it does an excellent job balancing the savory-sweet combo in my opinion.

This isn’t the kind of side dish you need to peel, soak, or precook either. All you really need to do is give your carrots a good wash and pop them into the crock with the other ingredients. We love a quick, simple side dish that shows up with a charming amount of flavor.

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

CARROTS – I prefer to use whole carrots when making them in the slow cooker, though this recipe will work just as well with baby carrots. There’s no need to peel whole carrots, but you certainly can if you want to. Simply give them a good rinse, scrubbing away any dirt on the surface.

GARLIC – 5 minced cloves does the trick, but you can substitute with 2 1/2 – 3 teaspoons of jarred minced garlic to save even more time prepping. It’s no surprise that fresh garlic yields the best flavor, though!

BALSAMIC – The balsamic vinegar is what makes this recipe exactly what it is. If you don’t have any on hand, you can try substituting with either red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar with 1/2 teaspoon of honey or brown sugar.

How to Make Slow Cooker Balsamic Carrots

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker, tossing to evenly coat carrots.
2. Cook on high for 4 to 6 hours, or on low for 6 to 8 hours (or until tender).

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

Yes, absolutely. You won’t really need to adjust your cook time when doubling, just be sure that your crock isn’t over 3/4 full.

Sure! Whole carrots can be substituted for baby carrots. There’s no need to adjust the cook time when doing so, but you can start checking them about an hour to 30 minutes before the cook time is up.

Store cooled leftover slow cooker carrots in an airtight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or additional balsamic. You can cover the skillet to help them warm quicker, but I would remove the lid towards the end to help the sauce thicken back up.

Serving Suggestions

I’ve made slow cooker carrots with anything from meatloaf to spatchcock chicken and baked salmon. You can catch me whipping out the crockpot for my side dishes during the holidays, too. They definitely ease the stress of making sure you get some veggies on the plate with your meal, too.

More Slow Cooker Side Recipes

• Slow Cooker Pinto Beans
• Crockpot Corn on the Cob
• Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes
• Crockpot Macaroni and Cheese

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