This Easy Sweet and Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic favorite! With a mix of ground beef, veggies, and a special Korean BBQ sauce, it’s both sweet and spicy.
Meatloaf doesn’t have to be boring! I love making this dish because it brings warmth and flavor to the table. Plus, it’s perfect with a side of rice to soak up all the tasty sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of fat and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead, but it might be a little less juicy.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives the meatloaf a nice texture. If you don’t have it, regular breadcrumbs work too. You can even use crushed crackers if that’s all you have on hand.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste adds heat and depth. If you can’t find it, try using Sriracha mixed with a little miso paste for a similar effect. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference!
Scallions: Fresh scallions add a great crunch and flavor. If you don’t have scallions, you can use chives or even finely chopped regular onions as a substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping your meatloaf moist is key! Start with the right mix of ingredients and avoid overmixing to prevent it from becoming tough. Also, using panko helps because it absorbs moisture without making the meat dense.
- Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dry loaf.
- Basting with a mixture of gochujang and honey or brown sugar near the end ensures a sticky finish and adds moisture.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes after baking before slicing; this helps redistribute juices.
Easy Sweet and Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meatloaf recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and will need approximately 60 minutes to bake. After baking, allowing it to rest for 10 minutes ensures it’s nice and juicy when you slice it. Total time is about 1 hour and 25 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients: ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, eggs, soy sauce, gochujang, ketchup, brown sugar, sesame oil, chopped scallions, grated ginger, rice vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently using your hands or a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Once mixed, shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape. Place it into the greased loaf pan or, if you prefer, shape it by hand and place it on a lined baking sheet.
4. Bake the Meatloaf:
Put the meatloaf in your preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This is when it’s perfectly cooked!
5. Add the Final Touch:
About 10 minutes before the baking time is up, baste the top of the meatloaf with a mixture of gochujang combined with a little honey or brown sugar. This will give it a delicious sticky and glossy finish.
6. Let It Rest:
After baking, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps your meatloaf moist.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your meatloaf with extra chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve it warm alongside steaming rice and your favorite sautéed or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!
Enjoy every bite of this sweet, spicy, and savory Korean BBQ meatloaf that brings a delightful twist to a traditional dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that turkey can dry out more easily, so you might want to add a bit more moisture, like an extra egg or a bit of broth, to keep the meatloaf tender.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Also, ensure that your soy sauce is gluten-free, or substitute with tamari sauce.
What Can I Serve With Korean BBQ Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs perfectly with steamed rice, but you can also serve it with sautéed or steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even mashed potatoes for a comforting meal!
