Sweet Spicy Korean Meatloaf (Printable Version)

Moist, bold Korean-style meatloaf with sweet and spicy BBQ flavor. A flavorful twist on a comfort food classic.

# Ingredients:

→ Meatloaf Base

01 - 2 pounds ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
02 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
03 - 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1/4 cup soy sauce
06 - 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean red pepper paste)
07 - 1/4 cup brown sugar
08 - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
09 - 2 large eggs
10 - 1 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1/2 cup chopped green onions
12 - 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

→ Topping & Garnish

13 - 1/2 cup ketchup
14 - Sesame seeds

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped onion, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, black pepper, and eggs until just combined.
03 - Add chopped green onions and cilantro to the meat mixture and mix gently to integrate without overworking.
04 - Transfer mixture into prepared loaf pan, pressing lightly to shape evenly.
05 - Spread ketchup evenly over the surface of the meatloaf.
06 - Place loaf pan in oven and bake for 40 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
07 - Remove from oven and allow meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
08 - Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top before serving.
09 - Slice with a sharp knife and plate immediately for serving.

# Notes:

01 - Allowing the meatloaf to rest enhances juiciness and makes cleaner slices.
02 - For extra flavor, mix a little gochujang into the ketchup topping.