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Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf Recipe

4.4 from 146 reviews

This Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food, combining savory ground beef with the bold flavors of gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Glazed with a tangy-sweet Korean BBQ sauce and topped with sesame seeds and green onions, this meatloaf delivers a perfect balance of heat and sweetness in every bite. It’s an easy-to-make, oven-baked dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Glaze Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon gochujang

Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
  2. Soak Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and milk. Let this mixture sit for 5 minutes so the breadcrumbs absorb the milk and soften, which helps keep the meatloaf moist.
  3. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked panko mixture, eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  4. Shape Meatloaf: Transfer the combined meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it down evenly to shape the meatloaf.
  5. Prepare Glaze: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, rice vinegar, honey, and a teaspoon of gochujang until smooth. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf to add a sweet and spicy finish.
  6. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
  7. Rest and Garnish: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist slice. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef with ground pork or a mixture of both for a different flavor profile.
  • For a spicier kick, increase the amount of gochujang in the glaze and meat mixture.
  • Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
  • Letting the meatloaf rest after baking helps retain moisture when sliced.
  • Serve with steamed rice or a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Keywords: Korean BBQ meatloaf, spicy meatloaf, gochujang meatloaf, oven baked meatloaf, Korean dinner recipes, sweet and spicy meatloaf