This Sweet and Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf brings a fun twist to a classic dish! It’s packed with flavors from soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness that makes it hard to resist.
Honestly, who knew meatloaf could be this exciting? I love serving it with rice and veggies for a cozy dinner. Trust me, everyone will want seconds (or even thirds)! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using ground beef adds richness, but I like blending it with pork for extra flavor and moisture. If you prefer leaner options, turkey or chicken can also work well.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatloaf. If you’re gluten-free, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oat flour. I often use panko for a lighter texture.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste gives the meatloaf its unique spicy-sweet kick. If it’s hard to find, try Sriracha or a mix of chili powder and sugar, although it won’t have the same depth of flavor.
Soy Sauce: It brings umami and saltiness. For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos. Personally, I prefer low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels.
How Do I Achieve the Best Texture for My Meatloaf?
Getting the texture just right is key for a great meatloaf. Avoid overmixing, which can make it tough. Here’s a simple way to ensure a great outcome:
- Mix the ingredients just until combined—think gentle folding instead of vigorous stirring.
- Use your hands if you can! It helps to get a feel for the mixture and allows you to mix less.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking! It helps the juices redistribute, making the slices moist.
How to Make Sweet and Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a blend of beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Glaze:
- Optional: 1 tbsp ketchup (for added sweetness)
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- Extra chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 45-55 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. So, overall, plan for about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps your meatloaf cook evenly. While it heats up, line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, green onions, minced garlic, egg, milk, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well blended. It should feel like a nice, sticky mixture.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into your lined baking dish. Shape it into a loaf, pressing it down gently to make sure it holds together well.
4. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the optional ketchup with a bit more gochujang and brown sugar to taste. This will create a sweet and spicy glaze. Brush this glaze over the top of the meatloaf to add flavor while it bakes.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in your preheated oven. Bake it for about 45-55 minutes, or until the inside reaches 160°F (70°C) on a meat thermometer. That’s the magic number for perfectly cooked meat!
6. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done baking, carefully take the meatloaf out of the oven. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps it stay juicy when you slice it.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to garnish! Sprinkle sesame seeds and some extra chopped green onions on top for a beautiful finish. Slice up your meatloaf and serve it with rice or enjoy it just as is. Enjoy the sweet and spicy flavors!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef or pork blend. Just be aware that these leaner meats may require additional seasoning to maintain flavor and moisture, so feel free to add a bit more soy sauce or sesame oil as needed.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder meatloaf, reduce the amount of gochujang to 1-2 tablespoons, or omit it entirely. You can also add some diced bell peppers to keep the flavor but take down the heat. Conversely, for extra spice, consider adding chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight. If you want to bake it from frozen, shape the meatloaf and freeze it before cooking, allowing for longer baking time.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also slice it before storing to make reheating easier!
