This Korean BBQ meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish! With sweet and spicy flavors, it’s made with ground meat, soy sauce, and a hint of garlic.
My family can’t get enough of it! It’s fun to watch them enjoy every bite and ask for seconds. Pair it with some rice, and you’ll have a winner on your dinner table! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A pound of ground beef gives great flavor, but you can mix it with pork for added juiciness. If you’re looking for leaner options, turkey or chicken also works well.
Breadcrumbs: Panko is my go-to for added crunch, but regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can also do the job. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste adds unique heat and flavor. If you can’t find it, try mixing chili paste with a bit of sugar for sweetness, or use sriracha for a different kick.
Sesame Oil: This oil contributes to the dish’s authentic taste. If you’re out of sesame oil, you could use a light olive oil, but the flavor won’t be as rich.
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Sauce: Whether you go homemade or buy it, this sauce ties the dish together. If you prefer less sweetness, opt for a simple tomato-based barbecue sauce instead.
How Do I Get My Meatloaf Just Right without Overmixing?
Mixing the meatloaf is a delicate dance! The key to a tender meatloaf is to combine your ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, so just mix until everything is incorporated.
- Start with your meat and add in dry ingredients first, like breadcrumbs and seasonings.
- Next, fold in wet ingredients like eggs and milk gently with your hands or a spatula.
Don’t worry if it feels a bit loose; that’s normal! Once shaped into a loaf, it will firm up while cooking.
How to Make Sweet and Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 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
- 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup sweet and spicy BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 50 minutes to bake in the oven. Plus, let it rest for 10 minutes after baking. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy your delicious meatloaf!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
2. Mixing the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, gather your ground meat, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, egg, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together using your hands or a spatula until just combined. Be gentle—you don’t want to overmix it or your meatloaf might be tough!
3. Shaping the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared baking dish. Shape it into a loaf shape, smoothing the top and sides so it looks nice and neat.
4. Adding the BBQ Sauce:
Now, take your sweet and spicy BBQ sauce and spread it generously over the top of the meatloaf. This will give it a nice glaze and add extra flavor as it bakes!
5. Baking to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-55 minutes. You’re looking for the internal temperature to reach 160°F (70°C), and the sauce on top should be beautifully caramelized. Keep an eye on it towards the end!
6. Letting It Rest:
Once the meatloaf is cooked to perfection, take it out of the oven. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together better when you cut it.
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Slice the meatloaf into generous portions. For a beautiful finish, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top. Serve it warm and enjoy your sweet and spicy creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef or Pork?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner option. Just be aware that it may require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor, so consider adding a pinch of salt and adjusting the gochujang to taste.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it in the oven or microwave.
Can I Substitute Gochujang with Another Ingredient?
If you can’t find gochujang, you can use a mix of chili paste and a little sugar to mimic the sweetness and heat. Alternatively, sriracha or a spicy ketchup can work in a pinch, but the flavor will vary slightly from the original recipe.
