Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf

The beauty of this Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf lies in its perfect balance of flavors—tender meatloaf, crispy on the edges, with the smoky, rich depth of Korean BBQ sauce. The sweetness from brown sugar and honey mingles beautifully with the spicy kick from gochujang, creating a satisfying harmony that elevates every bite. As the meatloaf bakes, the sauce caramelizes on top, giving it that irresistible, glossy finish. The scent wafts through the kitchen, a tantalizing mix of savory meat, tangy soy, and just a hint of heat. It’s the kind of dish that invites second servings, with each bite offering a satisfying combination of sweet, spicy, and umami flavors that bring comfort and excitement at the same time. This isn’t your average meatloaf; it’s a savory adventure with a Korean twist that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Key Ingredients in Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf

Every great dish starts with quality ingredients, and this meatloaf is no exception. The key components combine to create the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. Here’s a look at the star players in this recipe:

* Ground beef – Provides the hearty, savory base for the meatloaf, giving it a rich flavor and juicy texture.

* Ground pork – Adds a bit of fat and richness, ensuring the meatloaf stays moist while complementing the ground beef.

* Breadcrumbs – These help bind the meatloaf together, offering a light texture while soaking up all the flavorful juices.

* Soy sauce – Brings a salty, umami depth that enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a touch of richness.

* Brown sugar – Adds a natural sweetness that balances the spicy heat and brings out the caramelization in the sauce.

* Sesame oil – Offers a subtle nutty flavor that deepens the savory undertones, creating a more complex taste.

* Garlic, minced – A must-have aromatic that provides a pungent, savory kick, enhancing the overall flavor.

* Ginger, minced – Adds a zesty, slightly spicy note that pairs perfectly with the garlic and balances the richness of the meat.

* Green onions, chopped – These bring a fresh, mild onion flavor with a bit of crunch, brightening up the dish.

* Gochujang (Korean chili paste) – The star of the show! It brings a spicy, tangy, and umami-packed punch to the sauce, giving the meatloaf that signature Korean BBQ flavor.

* Ketchup – Adds a slight tang and sweetness, blending beautifully with the gochujang to create a smooth, flavorful glaze.

* Rice vinegar – This helps balance out the sweetness and spice, adding a bit of acidity that cuts through the richness of the meatloaf.

* Honey – Sweetens the sauce just enough to complement the spicy kick from the gochujang and enhance the caramelization on top.

* Black pepper – Adds a mild heat that rounds out the flavors without overpowering the other ingredients.

* Salt – A simple ingredient that helps bring all the flavors together, ensuring everything is well-seasoned.

* Eggs – Bind the meatloaf mixture together, giving it structure while keeping it moist and tender.

* Milk – Adds moisture and a soft, tender texture to the meatloaf.

* Vegetable oil – Used to coat the pan, it helps prevent sticking and ensures the meatloaf develops a crispy exterior.

* Sesame seeds – These offer a delightful crunch and nutty finish, sprinkling a bit of extra texture on top of the finished dish.

Each ingredient works together to create the sweet, spicy, and umami-packed experience that makes this meatloaf stand out.

How to Make Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with non-stick spray or a little vegetable oil to ensure the meatloaf doesn’t stick.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork, mixing them thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until the meat is evenly incorporated. This will form the base of your meatloaf and ensure a balanced flavor throughout.

3. Add the breadcrumbs to the meat mixture and stir them in to ensure they are evenly distributed. The breadcrumbs will help bind everything together while keeping the meatloaf light and moist.

4. Pour the soy sauce over the meat and mix it in well. This will infuse the meatloaf with a deep, savory flavor that complements the sweetness and spice of the other ingredients.

5. Sprinkle in the brown sugar and stir it through, allowing it to dissolve into the mixture. The sugar will add a touch of sweetness that balances the heat from the gochujang and helps with caramelization.

6. Drizzle the sesame oil over the meat mixture and continue mixing until everything is well combined. The sesame oil brings a subtle, nutty depth to the overall flavor.

7. Add the minced garlic and minced ginger to the mixture, stirring them in to evenly distribute their savory and zesty flavors throughout the meatloaf.

8. Stir in the chopped green onions, ensuring they are spread throughout the meat mixture. The green onions add freshness and a slight crunch to the dish.

9. Add the gochujang, ketchup, rice vinegar, and honey to the bowl and mix them in until the entire mixture is coated in the sauce. This blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors is what gives the meatloaf its Korean BBQ twist.

10. Season with black pepper and salt, stirring again to ensure the seasoning is well distributed. Adjust the seasoning to your taste to balance the flavors perfectly.

11. Crack the two large eggs into a small bowl and beat them lightly with a fork. This step helps to ensure the eggs mix evenly into the meat mixture without any clumps.

1. Pour the beaten eggs into the meat mixture and stir until the eggs are fully incorporated into the meat. The eggs help bind the meatloaf, giving it structure and moisture.

13. Add the milk to the mixture and stir until it is well combined and the texture is slightly smoother. The milk softens the meatloaf and contributes to a tender, juicy result.

14. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes. This is just enough time for the oil to heat up and get ready for browning the meat.

15. Once the oil is hot, carefully spoon the meat mixture into the skillet and brown the outside of the meatloaf for about 5-6 minutes. This step helps develop a rich, flavorful crust on the outside of the meatloaf before baking.

1. Transfer the partially browned meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape. This helps it hold its form during baking while allowing the sauce to caramelize on top.

17. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and is cooked through. This ensures the meatloaf is fully cooked and tender.

1. Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice moist and flavorful.

19. While the meatloaf is resting, sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top for a bit of crunch and visual appeal. These little seeds add texture and a subtle nuttiness that ties everything together.

20. Slice the meatloaf and serve it with your favorite side dishes, enjoying the balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed veggies, or even a simple salad!

Serving Suggestions for Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf

– Steamed white rice – This classic side dish soaks up the savory sauce, making each bite even more comforting. The rice provides a neutral base that lets the sweet and spicy flavors of the meatloaf shine.

– Sautéed veggies – Crisp-tender vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy make a perfect, healthy pairing. The slight bitterness of the greens balances the rich flavors of the meatloaf beautifully.

– Korean-style pickled radishes – The tangy, slightly sweet crunch of these pickled radishes provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf. They’re the perfect bite to cleanse your palate between indulgent servings.

How to Store Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf

After you’ve savored this delicious meatloaf, it’s easy to store the leftovers and keep them tasting just as amazing later. Here are a few tips to help maintain the freshness and flavor:

– In the refrigerator: Once the meatloaf has cooled to room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This is perfect for easy reheating and quick meals throughout the week.

– In the freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices of meatloaf. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.

– Reheating tips: To keep the meatloaf moist when reheating, cover it with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices, but be sure to cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.

Storing and reheating your Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf is a great way to enjoy those delicious flavors again without losing any of the magic!

Conclusion

Well, there you have it—your very own Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf, ready to take your taste buds on a flavorful adventure! From the perfectly tender meatloaf to that irresistible, glossy sauce, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. The blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds (or maybe even thirds)!

Feel free to print this recipe and save it for when you’re craving something delicious and different. And if you try it out, I’d absolutely love to hear how it turned out! Whether you have questions, feedback, or any fun twists of your own to share, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy cooking!

Print Recipe

Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf

Author: Emily Roberts Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 45 mins Rest Time 10 mins Total Time 1 hr 15 mins

Calories: 450

Description

A savory meatloaf with a bold twist! This Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf is packed with juicy beef, glazed in a tangy-sweet Korean BBQ sauce, and spiced just right. It's a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory in every bite!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 lb ground beef

• ¹⁄₂ lb ground pork

• ¹⁄₄ cup breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced

• ¹⁄₄ cup green onions, chopped

• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon honey

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• ¹⁄₄ cup milk

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with non-stick spray or a little vegetable oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork, mixing them thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until well incorporated.
3. Add the breadcrumbs to the meat mixture and stir them in to ensure they are evenly distributed.
4. Pour the soy sauce over the meat and mix it in, making sure the entire mixture is coated.
5. Sprinkle in the brown sugar and stir it through, allowing it to dissolve into the mixture.
6. Drizzle the sesame oil over the meat and continue mixing until everything is well combined.
7. Add the minced garlic and minced ginger to the mixture, stirring them in to evenly distribute their flavors.
8. Stir in the chopped green onions, ensuring they are spread throughout the meat mixture.
9. Add the gochujang, ketchup, rice vinegar, and honey to the bowl and mix them in until the entire mixture is coated in the sauce.
10. Season with black pepper and salt, stirring again to ensure the seasoning is well distributed.
11. Crack the two large eggs into a small bowl and beat them lightly with a fork.
12. Pour the beaten eggs into the meat mixture and stir until the eggs are fully incorporated into the meat.
13. Add the milk to the mixture and stir until it is well combined and the texture is slightly smoother.
14. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes.
15. Once the oil is hot, carefully spoon the meat mixture into the skillet and brown the outside of the meatloaf for about 5-6 minutes.
16. Transfer the partially browned meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape.
17. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and is cooked through.
18. Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
19. While the meatloaf is resting, sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top of the meatloaf for a bit of crunch and visual appeal.
20. Slice the meatloaf and serve it with your favorite side dishes, enjoying the balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors.

Note

• MakeSweet an kick adjust the amount of gochujang to your taste. If you're short on time, you can skip the browning step in the skillet and bake the meatloaf directly. For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Letting the meatloaf rest after baking helps it retain moisture and makes slicing easier.Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to help retain moisture and improve slicing.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add more gochujang or a dash of chili flakes.
• For a smoother texture, blend the garlic, ginger, and green onions before adding them to the mixture.
• Substitute the pork with ground turkey for a lighter version.
• For added sweetness, drizzle extra honey over the top before serving.

Keywords: Sweet Korean BBQ meatloaf recipe, Spicy Korean BBQ meatloaf, Korean BBQ meatloaf glaze, Sweet and spicy meatloaf recipe, Korean BBQ inspired meatloaf