07/22/2026
Ever wondered what it takes to feed nearly 100 people? Just ask our crew of volunteers from Southwest Airlines. Here's the recipe that's become a Ronald McDonald House favorite.
Southwest Airlines' World-Famous Meatloaf
For one pan (multiply by 18 to feed Holcombe House families!)
1 lb. ground beef
1 small roll Jimmy Dean regular sausage
2 eggs
1 package Texas Toast croutons
1 package H-E-B Meatloaf Seasoning
1 small can tomato sauce
2 squirts mustard
Jalapeños to taste
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grind the Texas Toast croutons in a blender until they are fine crumbs. Combine ground beef, sausage, eggs, crouton crumbs, meatloaf seasoning, tomato sauce, mustard, and jalapeños in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly, place in a baking pan, and bake for approximately 90 minutes, or until the meat reaches internal temp. of 160 degrees.
For more than 45 years, Southwest Airlines employees have shown up with grocery bags full of ingredients, sleeves rolled up, aprons tied, and enough heart to feed nearly 100 hungry family members. But their commitment goes beyond serving dinner. They create moments of normalcy, laughter, and connection around the table while preparing everything from spaghetti and jambalaya to barbecue and Thanksgiving turkey. One particular dish has earned top marks among residents at Ronald McDonald House Greater Houston: Southwest's world-famous meatloaf.
But dinner is just part of the story.
Some nights turn into karaoke competitions. Others become dance parties, games, or celebrations that help families build joyful memories together.
Southwest Airlines has also been a steadfast supporter through generous donations, gifts, and countless acts of kindness that extend far beyond the kitchen.
To every Southwest Airlines volunteer, pilot, flight attendant, mechanic, office employee, and supporter who has spent an evening serving our families over the past four decades—thank you. Your partnership has become part of the fabric of Ronald McDonald House Greater Houston, and generations of families have felt your kindness.
