Classic Whole Roasted Turkey

Directions

• 1.
  Position oven rack in bottom third of oven. Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil.
• 2.
  In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Cook until butter turns a medium-brown color and has a nutty aroma, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl, and stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
• 3.
  Remove outer packaging from turkey. Discard neckbone and gizzards. Pat turkey dry with paper towels.
• 4.
  On prepared pan, arrange all onions. Place turkey on top of onions. Brush butter mixture onto turkey to coat.
• 5.
  Bake until golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted in thickest portion of thigh (not touching bone) registers180°F, 3 hours to 3 hours and 15 minutes, brushing with butter every hour. Let stand for 20 minutes before carving.
• 6.
  Tip: Brown butter can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 1 week or frozen up to 2 months.