Sweet and Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf

ByUsman

This Sweet and Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf combines classic comfort food with the exciting flavors of Korean cooking. Made with ground beef, gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil, it’s juicy, flavorful, and finished with an optional sticky glaze. It’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1½ pounds ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)

How to Make Korean BBQ Meatloaf

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a large bowl, mix ground beef, olive oil, sesame oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, egg, and panko breadcrumbs until just combined. Don’t overmix.

Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. Bake for 40–45 minutes until fully cooked.

Optional: During the last 10 minutes of baking, brush the top with gochujang mixed with honey for a sticky glaze.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: Around 350 per serving

Why Korean Flavors Work So Well

Korean cooking balances sweet, spicy, savory, and tangy flavors beautifully. In this recipe, gochujang adds heat and umami, soy sauce adds depth, sesame oil adds nuttiness, and brown sugar balances everything with sweetness. Together, they turn simple meatloaf into something special.

Texture and Flavor

This meatloaf stays juicy thanks to the egg and panko breadcrumbs. The glaze creates a sticky, caramelized crust while the inside stays tender and flavorful. The garnish of green onions and sesame seeds adds crunch and freshness.

Best Sides to Serve With

This dish works with both Korean and Western sides:

  • Steamed white or sticky rice
  • Kimchi or pickled cucumber salad
  • Garlic mashed potatoes
  • Roasted vegetables like carrots, bok choy, or Brussels sprouts
  • Asian-style slaw with rice vinegar dressing

Tips for Perfect Meatloaf

  • Mix ingredients gently—overmixing makes it dense
  • Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor
  • Rest before slicing so it stays juicy
  • Adjust spice by adding more or less gochujang

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can prepare the meat mixture ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Leftovers keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge or can be frozen. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. Leftover slices also work great in sandwiches or rice bowls.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
  • Add finely chopped vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition
  • Make it vegetarian with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat
  • Use gluten-free panko and soy sauce if needed
  • Add more chili paste or fresh chili for extra heat

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet and Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf is a delicious fusion dish that combines the best of comfort food with bold flavors. It’s hearty, flavorful, easy to make, and versatile enough for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Once you try it, this may become your new favorite way to enjoy meatloaf.

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