Homestyle Glazed Meatloaf with Sweet Roasted Carrots: A Comfort Food Classic 🍖🥕

---

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a perfectly baked meatloaf, its savory aroma wafting through the kitchen, promising a hearty, soul-warming meal. Paired with tender, honey-kissed roasted carrots, this dish is the epitome of comfort food—a timeless duo that brings families together around the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight meal or a special gathering, this recipe for Glazed Meatloaf with Roasted Carrots delivers rich flavors, a glossy, tangy-sweet glaze, and vibrant, caramelized veggies. Below, I’ll walk you through every step to create this crowd-pleaser, complete with tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make it your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This meatloaf isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate. The combination of juicy ground beef and pork, seasoned with smoky spices and a glossy ketchup-based glaze, creates a tender, flavorful loaf that’s anything but bland. The roasted carrots, lightly sweetened with honey and fragrant with thyme, add a colorful, nutritious side that balances the richness of the meatloaf. Plus, this recipe is straightforward, uses pantry staples, and can be prepped ahead for stress-free cooking. Ready to dive into this classic dish with a modern twist? Let’s get started!

---

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor and texture) 🥩
• ½ lb ground pork (adds moisture and depth) 🐖
• ½ cup plain breadcrumbs (panko or homemade work wonderfully) 🍞
• ¼ cup whole milk (to soften the breadcrumbs and keep the loaf moist) 🥛
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten (binds everything together) 🥚
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (for subtle sweetness) 🧅
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (for a savory kick) 🧄
• 2 tbsp tomato ketchup (adds tang and umami) 🍅
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for a savory, slightly tangy depth) 🌿
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (for a hint of smokiness) 🌶️
• ¾ tsp kosher salt (or to taste) 🧂
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper (for a gentle bite) 🧂

For the Glaze:

• ¼ cup tomato ketchup (the base of the glossy topping) 🍅
• 2 tbsp light brown sugar, packed (for caramelized sweetness) 🍬
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for a sharp, tangy contrast) 🍯
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (to brighten the flavors) 🍏

For the Honey-Thyme Roasted Carrots:

• 1 lb fresh carrots, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds or sticks 🥕
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (for roasting and crisp edges) 🫒
• 1 tsp raw honey (for a touch of natural sweetness) 🍯
• ½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme for extra aroma) 🌿
• ½ tsp kosher salt (or to taste) 🧂
• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper (for seasoning) 🧂

---

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl (for the glaze)
• Baking dish or loaf pan (greased or lined with parchment)
• Baking sheet (for the carrots)
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Optional: Meat thermometer (for perfect doneness)

---

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the ingredients. Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. For the carrots, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This recipe is all about timing, so prepping your tools and ingredients now will make the process seamless.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. The blend of these meats ensures a juicy, flavorful loaf that’s not too dense. Add the breadcrumbs and pour the milk over them, letting the crumbs soak for a minute to soften. This step keeps the meatloaf tender. Next, add the beaten egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Using clean hands or a wooden spoon, gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough, so aim for a light touch—think of it as blending a delicate dough rather than kneading bread. Once mixed, shape the mixture into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Place it in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for an even glaze application.

Step 3: Whip Up the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. This glaze is the star of the show, giving the meatloaf its signature shiny, tangy-sweet crust. Brush or spoon half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly. Set the remaining glaze aside for later—it’ll add an extra layer of flavor toward the end of baking.

Step 4: Prepare the Roasted Carrots

In a medium bowl, toss the sliced carrots with olive oil, honey, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Ensure the carrots are evenly coated to promote even roasting and caramelization. Spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of garlic powder or a sprinkle of fresh rosemary if you’re feeling adventurous.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf and Carrots

Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 20 minutes to let it start cooking. After 20 minutes, add the tray of carrots to the oven alongside the meatloaf. This staggered timing ensures the carrots don’t overcook while the meatloaf reaches its ideal internal temperature. Continue baking for an additional 25 minutes.

During the final 10 minutes of baking, brush the remaining glaze over the meatloaf to create a sticky, caramelized finish. Check the meatloaf’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should read 160°F (71°C) for beef and pork. The carrots should be tender and slightly golden at the edges.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove both the meatloaf and carrots from the oven. Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing; this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each slice moist and flavorful. Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving dish and sprinkle with a pinch of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Slice the meatloaf into thick, hearty portions and serve alongside the warm, honey-glazed carrots. Pair with mashed potatoes, a green salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.

---

Tips for Success

• Make It Ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge, then glaze and bake when ready. The carrots can also be prepped and tossed with seasonings a few hours ahead.
• Glaze Variations: Swap the brown sugar for maple syrup or add a pinch of chili powder to the glaze for a spicy kick.
• Carrot Substitutions: Try parsnips, sweet potatoes, or a mix of root vegetables for a colorful twist on the side dish.
• Meatloaf Texture: For a lighter loaf, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes before mixing. For a denser texture, use less milk or add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven, and use leftover meatloaf in sandwiches or crumbled into soups.

---

Why This Dish Works

The magic of this recipe lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The meatloaf’s savory, umami-packed interior contrasts beautifully with the sticky, sweet-tart glaze. The roasted carrots, with their natural sweetness enhanced by honey and thyme, add a vibrant, earthy complement that cuts through the richness of the meat. It’s a dish that feels both familiar and elevated, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

---

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Comfort: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans for a traditional American dinner.
• Light and Fresh: Pair with a crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Hearty Feast: Add a side of macaroni and cheese or roasted Brussels sprouts for an indulgent spread.
• Sandwich Remix: Use leftover meatloaf slices in a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and a smear of extra glaze or mayo.

---

Nutritional Highlights

This dish is packed with protein from the beef and pork, while the carrots provide fiber, vitamins A and K, and antioxidants. The glaze adds a touch of sweetness, but you can reduce the brown sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey for a lighter option. For a lower-fat version, opt for leaner ground beef (90/10) and reduce the pork to ¼ lb, supplementing with extra breadcrumbs or a grated zucchini for moisture.

---

A Personal Touch

Growing up, meatloaf was a staple in my household—a dish that always brought everyone to the table, no matter how busy the day. This recipe is my take on that classic, with a few tweaks to make it extra special. The smoked paprika adds a subtle warmth that reminds me of cozy fall evenings, while the honey-thyme carrots bring a touch of elegance to the plate. I hope this dish becomes a favorite in your home, too, sparking memories and conversations around your table.

---