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Roasted Baby Beets

This classic recipe for roasted baby beets highlights the natural sweetness and earthy depth of one of the garden's finest treasures. By roasting the beets in a tightly sealed parcel with fresh rosemary, the vegetables steam in their own juices, resulting in a buttery texture and vibrant colour. It is a sophisticated way to serve beetroot that moves far beyond the pickled varieties found in jars, offering a delicate balance of herbal aroma and rich, savoury notes.

As a versatile vegetarian side dish, these beets are an excellent accompaniment to a traditional Sunday roast or served alongside a crumbly goat’s cheese salad. Because the initial roasting and peeling can be completed a day in advance, this recipe is a stress-free option for dinner parties or busy family gatherings. Simply finish them in the oven with a little olive oil and butter for a glossy, elegant finish.

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Ingredients for Roasted Baby Beets

  • 30 baby beets (each 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter

  • about 5 bunches), unpeeled, all but 1 inch of tops trimmed, rinsed

  • 4 large fresh rosemary sprigs, plus additional sprigs for garnish

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons butter

  • 60ml olive oil

How to make Roasted Baby Beets

Preheat oven to 191°C. Place beets in roasting pan. Add 4 rosemary sprigs and enough water to barely cover beets. Cover pan tightly with foil. Roast beets until tender, about 50 minutes. Transfer beets to work surface. Peel while still warm; place on rimmed baking sheet. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover; chill.)

Preheat oven to 177°C. Melt butter with oil in small saucepan. Pour over beets on sheet; toss to coat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake until heated through, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. Transfer to bowl. Garnish with additional rosemary sprigs and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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