Mama’s Easy Meatloaf with Cunningham’s 80/20 Ground Beef
Lean, rich, and full of flavor — the perfect comfort meal for busy families.
If you’ve ever struggled with a meatloaf that turns out dry or bland, it’s time for a change. Forget the dry, flavorless meatloaf of the past — this one is pure comfort and rich, savory goodness. Made with Cunningham Pastured Meats’ 80/20 ground beef, it’s lean yet full-bodied in flavor, giving you a moist, hearty slice every time.
This family-favorite recipe, passed down from my mama, is a true busy-weeknight hero. It’s simple to prepare, incredibly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Add caramelized onions for extra depth, or glaze it with a sweet and tangy topping for a little extra magic.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Cunningham’s 80/20 ground beef — lean, but rich and beefy in flavor; a versatile choice for this recipe
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup ketchup or one 6 oz can tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder or 2–3 fresh garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 teaspoons each: oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme or 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon salt
Optional Additions
- Onion lovers: Caramelize ½ an onion and fold it into the mixture before baking.
- Sweeter variation: Mix 1 tablespoon brown sugar with ¼ cup chili sauce and spread over the meatloaf as a glaze before baking.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and eggs.
- Add ketchup (or tomato paste) and mix until just combined.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the panko with all seasonings.
- Add the seasoned panko to the beef mixture and gently combine — avoid overmixing for a tender texture.
- Shape into a loaf and place in a baking dish or loaf pan.
- If using the sweet glaze, spread it evenly over the top.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Five more Ideas and a Serving suggestion for My Mama’s Meatloaf
Serving Ideas:
Pair this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal veggies, or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal. Leftovers make the most incredible meatloaf sandwiches — just toast your bread, add a little ketchup or BBQ sauce, and enjoy.
1. Classic Stuffed Peppers 🌶
A colorful, veggie-packed dinner. Fill bell peppers with a savory mix of ground beef, rice, onions, and herbs, then top with cheese and bake until bubbly.
2. Savory Beef Tacos 🌮
Taco night made simple — seasoned ground beef, warm tortillas, and fresh toppings. A guaranteed kid-pleaser.
3. Juicy Smash Burgers 🍔
Fast, flavorful, and perfect for a Friday treat. Smash seasoned ground beef on a hot griddle, melt cheese on top, and stack on toasted buns.
4. Hearty Beef & Veggie Skillet 🥦
A one-pan wonder loaded with ground beef, carrots, zucchini, onions, and a splash of broth. Dinner in under 30 minutes.
5. Fresh-from-Idaho Spaghetti Bolognese 🍝
Simmer ground beef with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for a rich pasta sauce. Try it with Rice Family Farms’ certified organic canning tomatoes for the freshest local flavor.
Don’t forget, Cliff’s Country Market in Caldwell, Idaho is the home of Cunningham Pastured Meats and also the very best place to source the very best local and organic produce in the Treasure Valley!! It’s like having a year-round farmer’s market with a full service deli, grocery and high quality nutrient dense meat department all in one spot!!