Korean BBQ Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction
Korean BBQ Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food you know and love. Infused with spicy gochujang and savory soy sauce, this meatloaf combines tender ground beef and pork for a deliciously satisfying meal. It’s easy to make and perfect for dinner any night of the week.

Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork.
- Step 2: Add the breadcrumbs and pour in the milk, mixing gently to incorporate.
- Step 3: Stir in the soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, and sesame oil until evenly blended.
- Step 4: Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and green onions, mixing to distribute.
- Step 5: Crack in the egg and sprinkle the black pepper and salt over the mixture.
- Step 6: Using your hands, mix everything together until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Step 7: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- Step 8: Shape the meat mixture into an 8-inch by 4-inch loaf on the prepared baking sheet, smoothing the top and sides.
- Step 9: Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the loaf and sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish.
- Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). If browning too fast, loosely cover with foil halfway through baking.
- Step 11: Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before slicing.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of gochujang or substitute with a milder chili paste.
- Try adding finely grated carrots or zucchini for extra moisture and nutrition.
- If you prefer a saucier topping, mix the ketchup with a bit of honey or extra brown sugar before spreading.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked without overbaking.
Storage
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the texture similar while avoiding gluten.
Can I prepare this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the meatloaf up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
PrintKorean BBQ Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Comfort Food Recipe
Korean BBQ Meatloaf is a delicious fusion dish that combines classic comfort food with bold Korean flavors. Ground beef and pork are mixed with soy sauce, gochujang, and sesame oil for a rich, savory taste, then baked to juicy perfection. Topped with ketchup and sesame seeds, this flavorful meatloaf offers a unique twist on a traditional favorite, perfect for dinner any night of the week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean-American Fusion
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Topping
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Combine Meats: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork to create a richer flavor and better texture for your meatloaf.
- Add Breadcrumbs and Milk: Mix in the breadcrumbs and pour in the milk to bind the mixture and keep it moist.
- Mix in Flavors: Stir in soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, and sesame oil to infuse the meatloaf with signature Korean BBQ flavors.
- Add Aromatics: Incorporate the minced garlic, finely chopped onion, and chopped green onions to enhance the flavor profile.
- Bind with Egg and Season: Crack in the egg and sprinkle with black pepper and salt for seasoning, then gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- Shape Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape into an 8-inch-long by 4-inch-wide loaf, smoothing the top and sides.
- Apply Topping: Evenly spread ketchup over the top of the meatloaf and sprinkle with sesame seeds for flavor and presentation.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 1 hour until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Check halfway and cover loosely with foil if browning too quickly.
- Rest: Remove from oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring tenderness before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For extra moisture, you can soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes before mixing.
- Use disposable gloves when mixing the meat to keep your hands clean and ease cleanup.
- Covering the meatloaf halfway through baking can prevent the topping from burning.
- Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is essential for juicy, tender slices.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if preferred but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Keywords: Korean BBQ Meatloaf, Meatloaf recipe, Korean meatloaf, Korean BBQ, comfort food, savory meatloaf, oven-baked meatloaf

