Sweet Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf
Sweet Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf
Introduction
Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, flavorful meatloaf with a perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with this Sweet Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf recipe. Whether you’re a fan of traditional meatloaf or looking to try something new and exciting, this recipe is guaranteed to delight your taste buds.
What sets this meatloaf apart is its unique blend of Korean flavors. Inspired by the bold and vibrant cuisine of Korea, this recipe combines the savory umami of soy sauce and garlic with the sweetness of brown sugar and the heat of Korean chili paste. The result is a mouthwatering meatloaf that will leave you craving for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why this Sweet Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf recipe deserves a spot in your recipe collection:
Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meatloaf ready to serve. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is accessible to everyone.
Secondly, this meatloaf is bursting with flavor. The combination of sweet and spicy ingredients creates a harmonious balance that will excite your taste buds. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Lastly, this recipe is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. You can adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by adding more or less Korean chili paste. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of ground meat or even add vegetables for an extra nutritional boost.
Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- ½ pound ground pork
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Korean chili paste (gochujang)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the glaze:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Korean chili paste (gochujang)
Note: Feel free to adjust the quantity of Korean chili paste based on your desired level of spiciness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, panko breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, diced onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, Korean chili paste, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the greased loaf pan, pressing it down gently to form an even layer.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, and Korean chili paste to make the glaze.
5. Pour the glaze over the meatloaf, spreading it evenly to cover the top.
6. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Expert Tips for Success
• Use a mixture of ground beef and ground pork for the best flavor and texture.
• Soaking the panko breadcrumbs in milk helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
• Be sure to thoroughly mix the ingredients to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the meatloaf.
• Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier meatloaf.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize this Sweet Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf recipe to suit your preferences:
• If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of Korean chili paste.
• For a healthier option, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork.
• Add grated carrots or zucchini for an extra dose of vegetables.
• Experiment with different types of ground meat such as lamb or veal for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments:
• Serve it with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete Korean-inspired meal.
• Slice the meatloaf and use it to make delicious sandwiches or sliders.
• Enjoy it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or kimchi for a traditional Korean flavor combination.
• For a fusion twist, serve the meatloaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and roasted Brussels sprouts.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this meatloaf in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before freezing. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use a different type of chili paste?
A: While the flavor profile may change slightly, you can substitute Korean chili paste with other chili pastes, such as sriracha or sambal oelek. Adjust the quantity according to your desired level of spiciness.
Final Thoughts
Indulge in the delectable flavors of Korean cuisine with this Sweet Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf recipe. With its perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it with rice and vegetables or use it to make sandwiches, this recipe offers a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Give it a try and prepare to be amazed by the incredible flavors that await you!
We hope you enjoy making this Sweet Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf as much as we enjoyed creating the recipe. Don’t forget to share your experience with us and happy cooking!

Sweet Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf
Indulge in the delectable flavors of Korean cuisine with this Sweet Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf recipe. With a perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
-
1 ½ pounds ground beef
-
½ pound ground pork
-
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
-
½ cup milk
-
2 eggs
-
½ cup diced onion
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 tablespoons soy sauce
-
3 tablespoons Korean chili paste (gochujang)
-
3 tablespoons brown sugar
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
½ teaspoon black pepper
-
¼ cup ketchup
-
2 tablespoons brown sugar
-
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan and set aside.
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, panko breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, diced onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, Korean chili paste, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
-
Transfer the meat mixture to the greased loaf pan, pressing it down gently to form an even layer.
-
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and soy sauce to make the glaze.
-
Pour the glaze over the meatloaf, spreading it evenly to cover the top.
-
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
-
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.