Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf

Get ready to redefine comfort food with this Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf! Think of your classic meatloaf but taken up a notch with a bold fusion of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors inspired by Korean BBQ. Trust me, one bite, and this dish will become a weeknight favorite or a dinner party showstopper. The sticky glaze, the moist meat, and the balance of heat and sweetness—it’s a game-changer. Let’s dive in, shall we?

Why You’ll Love Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf

Versatile

This meatloaf isn’t just for your typical dinner. Serve it as a hearty main course, slice it up for sandwiches, or use it to elevate your meal prep game.

Budget-Friendly

A small list of affordable ingredients transforms into a flavor-packed dish that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.

Easy to Make

The recipe comes together with straightforward steps and minimal prep, making it perfect even for beginner cooks.

Customizable

Love more spice? Add extra chili paste. Prefer it sweeter? Increase the brown sugar. This recipe invites you to tailor it to your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing

Adults and kids alike will swoon over the delicious glaze and savory meatloaf base. It’s a guaranteed hit!

Ingredients

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ground Beef

The hearty base of the meatloaf. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option or go with a mix of beef and pork for extra richness.

Panko Breadcrumbs

Adds structure while keeping the meatloaf tender and moist. These fine breadcrumbs soak up all the flavors beautifully.

Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste)

This is where the spice and deep umami flavors shine. A little goes a long way in adding complexity.

Brown Sugar

Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness and caramelizes beautifully in the glaze.

Soy Sauce

Adds salty, savory depth and enhances the overall umami profile.

Garlic and Ginger

These aromatics provide warmth and a fragrant base that complements the bold flavors.

Egg

The binder that holds everything together for a cohesive loaf.

Scallions

Bright and fresh, these add a pop of color and subtle onion flavor.

Sesame Oil

A few drops give the meatloaf a nutty aroma and a touch of authenticity.

Ketchup

A classic meatloaf ingredient that melds with the gochujang for a sticky, irresistible glaze.

Instructions to Make Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A properly heated oven ensures even cooking and a perfectly caramelized glaze.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, gochujang, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, egg, scallions, and sesame oil. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 3: Shape and Prepare

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared sheet.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix ketchup, additional gochujang, brown sugar, and a splash of soy sauce. Brush half of the glaze over the meatloaf, reserving the rest for later.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes. About 10 minutes before it’s done, brush the remaining glaze on top and return to the oven to caramelize.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the sweet and spicy magic!

How to Serve Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf

With Rice: Pair with steamed jasmine or sticky rice to soak up all the extra glaze.
As a Sandwich: Slide a thick slice between crusty bread with a slather of mayo for a killer meatloaf sandwich.
With Veggies: Serve alongside roasted broccoli or sautéed bok choy for a balanced meal.
On Its Own: It’s flavorful enough to enjoy solo with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Additional Tips

Make It Ahead: Prep the meatloaf mixture the night before, shape it, and store it in the fridge. Bake fresh when ready.
Adjust the Spice: For a milder version, use less gochujang or substitute it with a mix of ketchup and chili sauce.
Freeze It: This meatloaf freezes beautifully—perfect for batch cooking.
Don’t Skip the Resting: Letting it rest ensures the juices stay in the meatloaf and not on your cutting board!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different meat?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

Q2: Can I make this gluten-free?

Swap panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Q3: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat slices in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.

Q4: Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?

Absolutely! Finely diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini blend well without overpowering the flavors.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just shape the meatloaf into two smaller loaves or use a larger baking dish.

Q6: What can I substitute for gochujang?

Try a mix of sriracha and ketchup for a similar sweet-and-spicy profile.

Q7: Can I make the glaze less sweet?

Reduce the amount of brown sugar and increase the ketchup for a more tangy flavor.

Q8: How long can leftovers be stored?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Q9: What’s the best way to slice meatloaf?

Use a sharp knife and slice gently to maintain its shape.

Q10: Can I make this in a loaf pan?

Yes, but ensure it’s not too tightly packed to avoid uneven cooking.

Conclusion

This Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf is the perfect blend of comfort and flair, bringing bold, exciting flavors to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing dinner guests, this recipe will quickly earn a spot in your rotation. Give it a try—you’ll see why it’s so unforgettable!

Print