Herb-Roasted Vidalia Onions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Heat butter in a 10-inch cast-iron or heavy-bottomed stainless-steel skillet over medium-high heat until lightly browned, 1 to 2 minutes. Add onions, cut-side down. Place bay leaves and thyme in the spaces between the onions so the herbs will flavor the butter. Cook until the onions are dark brown on the bottom, 3 to 5 minutes. Turn them over and season with salt and pepper. Add broth. Cover with foil and transfer the pan to the oven.

Bake the onions until very tender, about 30 minutes. Serve immediately, with the pan sauce spooned on top. Garnish with more thyme, if desired.