Classic Beef Meatloaf

1 1/2 pounds ground beef (93% or leaner)
3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
3/4 cup ketchup, divided
1/2 cup minced onion
1 egg
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
3/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, 1/2 cup ketchup, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, thyme, pepper and salt in large bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Shape beef into 8 x 4-inch loaf on rack in aluminum foil-lined broiler pan. Place on upper oven rack in preheated oven. Bake 45 to 55 minutes, until center reaches 160 degrees; brush with remaining 1/4 cup ketchup during last 10 minutes, if desired. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
Courtesy of the Beef Checkoff