This Sweet and Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic dish! It combines ground meat with yummy Korean flavors, giving it a unique kick that everyone will love.
I can’t help but smile when I make this meatloaf—it’s so juicy and full of flavor! It’s great for dinner and even better as leftovers, if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using ground beef for its rich flavor, but you can swap it for ground turkey if you’re looking for a leaner option. Both work well, just keep an eye on the cooking time as turkey can dry out faster.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a nice texture to the meatloaf, making it lighter. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers can do the trick! Just ensure they are finely ground.
Gochujang: This Korean red chili paste adds a unique spicy-sweet flavor. If you can’t find it, try mixing sriracha with a bit of sugar as a substitute. It’s not quite the same, but it carries a similar heat profile!
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce brings in a salty umami taste. For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos, which also adds a slightly sweet touch.
Sesame Seeds: These seeds add a nice crunch and flavor. If you’re out of sesame seeds, you can skip them or try sprinkling some crushed nuts on top for an interesting twist!
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping meatloaf moist can be a bit tricky, but with the right mix of ingredients and techniques, it’s very doable. Here are some tips:
- Use enough binders like breadcrumbs and egg, as they help retain moisture.
- Don’t overmix the ingredients. Just mix until combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Cover the meatloaf with foil during the first half of baking to keep the moisture in, then uncover to let it brown nicely.
Always check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking. Aim for 160°F (70°C) for juicy results!
How to Make Sweet And Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus about 1 hour for baking. Don’t forget to let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking. So, overall, you’ll need about 1 hour and 25 minutes to enjoy your delicious meatloaf!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to get that meatloaf cooked just right. You can also line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to make cleanup easier later on.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, gather all the goodies! Combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, egg, soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang, minced ginger, and black pepper. Mix everything together really well until it’s all combined. It’s okay to use your hands; just make sure they’re clean!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Now, transfer that meat mixture into your prepared baking dish. Shape it into a loaf shape, nice and even. This helps it cook evenly and look great when it’s done!
4. Make the Glaze:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together a bit more soy sauce, some brown sugar, and a touch more gochujang to make a sweet and spicy glaze. Brush this glaze generously over the top of your meatloaf. It adds a fantastic flavor and a beautiful finish when baking!
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in your preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). It should smell amazing while it bakes!
6. Let it Rest:
Once your meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps keep all the juices inside, making for a moist and delicious slice.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top. It not only looks pretty, but it adds extra flavor too. Slice it up and enjoy your sweet and spicy Korean BBQ meatloaf!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that ground turkey can have a different texture and may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 160°F (70°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers. Just remember that the texture will be a little different; panko gives a lighter, crunchier texture to the meatloaf!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
