Discover the Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf Recipe That Will Wow Your Guests!

In the ever-evolving world of modern cuisine, meatloaf has found a resurgence as a comforting and versatile dish. Today, we’re taking this classic home-cooked favorite and infusing it with the bold, mouthwatering flavors of Korean barbecue. Prepare to embark on a flavor adventure with our Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf!

Table of Contents

Uncovering the Ingredients

The secret to this delectable meatloaf lies in the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements. Let’s dive into the key ingredients that make this dish a showstopper:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 3 green onions, finely chopped

For the Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Glaze:

• ¼ cup gochujang
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil

The ground beef (or a blend of beef and pork) provides the foundation, while the panko breadcrumbs help to bind the meatloaf together. The egg adds moisture and cohesion, while the garlic, ginger, and gochujang (Korean chili paste) infuse the meatloaf with bold, spicy-sweet flavors. Soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey balance the heat with savory and sweet notes. The green onions lend a fresh, oniony finish.

The Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Glaze is a game-changer, combining gochujang, ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to create a caramelized, sticky-sweet coating that takes this meatloaf to new heights of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to bring this Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf to life? Follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat Oven: To 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
2. Prepare Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
3. Shape & Bake: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Bake for 45 minutes.
4. Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together all the glaze ingredients.
5. Glaze & Finish Baking: Brush the glaze over the meatloaf and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and spicy Korean flavors!

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the bold flavors of this Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf, consider serving it with some equally delightful side dishes:

• Kimchi Fried Rice: The tangy, fermented flavors of kimchi pair beautifully with the meatloaf.
• Garlic Sautéed Greens: A simple side of sautéed spinach, kale, or bok choy can balance the heartiness of the meatloaf.
• Korean-Style Coleslaw: A refreshing cabbage and carrot slaw, dressed in a Korean-inspired vinaigrette, can provide a crunchy contrast.

As for beverages, a glass of soju (a traditional Korean rice-based spirit) or a cold Korean lager would be an excellent pairing. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime can help cleanse the palate between bites.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf recipe is that it allows for plenty of customization and experimentation. Here are a few ideas to mix things up:

• Alternative Meats: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based protein for a healthier twist.
• Gluten-Free Options: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: Increase or decrease the amount of gochujang to suit your preferred level of heat.
• Adding Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers, grated carrots, or shredded zucchini for added nutrition and texture.

Nutritional Information

A serving of this Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf provides a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Each slice contains approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 18g

The ground beef and panko breadcrumbs contribute to the protein content, while the gochujang, honey, and brown sugar provide a boost of carbohydrates. The sesame oil and other ingredients add healthy fats to the dish. For a healthier option, you can substitute leaner ground beef or turkey and reduce the amount of breadcrumbs and added sugars.

Frequently Asked Questions

What not to put in meatloaf?

Avoid adding ingredients that can make the meatloaf too dry or dense, such as too many breadcrumbs, overcooked vegetables, or excessive amounts of eggs. It’s also best to steer clear of ingredients that may overwhelm the other flavors, like strong herbs or spices in large quantities.

What is Korean barbecue sauce made of?

The Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Glaze in this recipe is made from a combination of gochujang (Korean chili paste), ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. This blend of sweet, savory, and spicy elements creates the signature Korean barbecue flavor profile.

When should I put the barbecue sauce on my meatloaf?

In this recipe, the barbecue glaze is applied halfway through the baking process. This allows the meatloaf to develop a nice crust before the glaze is added, ensuring it caramelizes and forms a delicious, sticky coating on the outside of the meatloaf.

What makes Korean barbecue spicy?

The main ingredient that contributes to the spicy element in Korean barbecue is gochujang, a fermented red chili paste. Gochujang is made from Korean red chili peppers, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. The fermentation process gives gochujang a complex, slightly sweet and umami-rich flavor with a lingering heat.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Korean BBQ Meatballs with Spicy Mayo Dip
• Bourbon BBQ Bacon-Glazed Chicken Meatloaf
• Grandma’s Crispy Maple Bacon Meatloaf

Conclusion

Embrace the bold, sweet, and spicy flavors of Korea with this exceptional Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Meatloaf. This dish offers a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, transporting your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Seoul. Whether you’re a seasoned Korean cuisine enthusiast or simply looking to expand your culinary horizons, this meatloaf is sure to impress. So fire up your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor a truly unforgettable meal!

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