Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Carrots.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your carrots. Wash and peel the carrots thoroughly. You can cut them into 1-inch thick rounds, which are classic and roast evenly, or into carrot sticks if you prefer a different shape. Ensure the pieces are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. Having uniform pieces will help them roast at the same rate and prevent some pieces from being undercooked or overcooked.

Step 2: Toss Carrots with Olive Oil and Seasonings.

In a large bowl, place the prepared carrots. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. The olive oil not only prevents the carrots from sticking to the baking sheet but also helps them to caramelize beautifully in the oven, enhancing their natural sweetness and flavor. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Toss everything together thoroughly using your hands or a spatula, ensuring that the carrots are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. Massage the seasonings into the carrots to maximize flavor infusion.

Step 3: Roast the Carrots Until Tender-Crisp and Slightly Caramelized.

Spread the seasoned carrots in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can steam the carrots instead of roasting them, hindering caramelization. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender-crisp and slightly caramelized. You want them to be cooked through but still have a slight bite. The edges should start to turn golden brown and slightly crispy, indicating caramelization. Halfway through roasting, you can toss the carrots gently to ensure even browning on all sides.

Step 4: Add Heavy Cream and Parmesan Cheese.

Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Pour ½ cup of heavy cream evenly over the roasted carrots. Then, sprinkle ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese generously over the carrots and cream. Make sure the parmesan is distributed relatively evenly so that every carrot piece gets a cheesy coating. The heavy cream will create a luscious sauce as it warms in the oven, and the parmesan will melt into a beautiful, cheesy layer.

Step 5: Return to Oven to Melt Cheese and Create Creamy Sauce.

Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue to roast for another 5-7 minutes, or until the parmesan cheese is melted and bubbly and the cream sauce has slightly thickened and is heated through. Keep a close eye on the carrots during this stage to prevent the parmesan from burning. You want it to be nicely melted and golden brown, but not overly browned or burnt. The sauce should be creamy and coating the carrots beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve Hot.

Remove the baking sheet from the oven. If desired, garnish with 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Parsley adds a lovely brightness that cuts through the richness of the cream and parmesan. Serve the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots immediately while they are hot and the cheese is melted and gooey. They are best enjoyed fresh from the oven. You can also sprinkle extra grated parmesan cheese over the top just before serving for an extra cheesy touch.