This Sweet And Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf is a fun twist on the classic dish! It blends sweet and spicy flavors, making each bite packed with excitement. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
I love how this meatloaf can easily become a family favorite. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and always leaves my kitchen smelling amazing. Who can resist that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A mixture of ground beef and pork adds great flavor. If you prefer leaner meat, turkey or chicken can be good substitutes. They change the texture slightly but still make a tasty meatloaf.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to bind the ingredients. For a gluten-free option, swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats. I sometimes use panko for a crunchier texture!
Gochujang: This chili paste gives the meatloaf its unique kick and sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, you can use a mix of chili paste and a bit of sugar, or even sriracha for a different flavor, though it won’t be quite the same.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce works well here. For a low-sodium option, pick that instead. You can substitute with tamari for gluten-free, or coconut aminos for a sweeter taste.
Brown Sugar: This adds deep sweetness. You can use honey or maple syrup for a natural alternative. Just adjust the quantity as these are sweeter than brown sugar.
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping meatloaf moist is key to a delicious result! Here are some tips:
- Mix the ingredients gently. Overmixing can make it tough, so fold them together until just combined.
- Use milk and egg to help keep the loaf tender. They add moisture and bind everything together.
- Don’t skip the resting step! Allowing the meatloaf to sit for 10 minutes after baking helps keep the juices inside.
How to Make Sweet And Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mixture of ground beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Extra chopped green onions
- Sriracha (optional, for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Sweet And Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-60 minutes to bake. You’ll be enjoying this tasty dish in about an hour and a half!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped green onions, milk, egg, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang, sesame oil, and rice vinegar until it’s smooth and blended nicely.
4. Combine Meat and Sauce:
Pour about half of the sauce mixture into the meat mixture. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed throughout the meat.
5. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared baking dish and shape it into a loaf. Make sure it’s nicely formed and sits evenly in the dish.
6. Brush the Topping:
Take the remaining sauce mixture and brush it generously over the top of the meatloaf, adding a glossy and flavorful finish.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
8. Rest Before Slicing:
Once it’s cooked, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making it easier to slice.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the top with additional chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a delightful touch. If you like a bit of heat, add some Sriracha on the side for your enjoyment.
10. Enjoy!
Slice up your delicious Sweet And Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf, serve it with some extra sauce, and enjoy a delightful meal with family or friends!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Other Meats?
Absolutely! You can use ground pork, turkey, or chicken as substitutes for the ground beef. If you decide to use turkey or chicken, consider adding a bit more moisture, like extra milk or a splash of broth, to keep the meatloaf juicy.
How Do I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
To make this meatloaf gluten-free, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free—look for brands specifically labeled as such!
Can I Prepare the Meatloaf in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just shape it into a loaf the next day and bake it as directed. This can save you time on busy days!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze the meatloaf wrapped tightly in foil or in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
