Heat milk, 3 tablespoons butter and water goether in a small saucepan until butter melts. Allow to cool to 120 degrees.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment, mix together 2 cups of flour, yeast, dried thyme, salt and sugar.
Slowly add the warm milk mixture to the flour mixture and mix until the dough comes together. If the dough seems too wet, add more flour 1/4 cup at a time until it comes together.
Roll dough out on a lightly floured surface and knead a few times until it forms a ball. Place in a greased bowl, cover and allow to rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 40 minutes.
After dough has risen, divide into 12 even balls and form into rolls. Place rolls close togher in a 10 inch cast iron skillet (or other baking dish of similar size). Cover and allow to rise a second time. About 40 minutes.
After they have risen a second time, bake at 375 degrees for 15 - 20 minutes or until golden brown.
While rolls are baking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small skillet. Remove from heat and add in thyme. Brush thyme butter over the rolls, sprinkle with salt and serve warm.