Slow Cooked Beef Buns with Roasties and Pigs in Blankets: A Cozy Family Favorite

There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate piled high with Slow Cooked Beef Buns accompanied by golden roasties and crispy pigs in blankets. The aroma wafting from the kitchen, with hints of garlic and herbs, can make even the busiest weeknights feel special. Picture this: a chilly evening, the kind that wraps around you like a warm hug. You enter the kitchen, and the simmering beef greets you like an old friend. It’s a world of flavors wrapped in tender, juicy meat and crispy bacon—a dish that wraps you in nostalgia.

This recipe has become a staple for my family, perfect for those hectic weeknights and casual weekend gatherings. I have to admit, my kitchen often ends up looking like a tornado hit it when I’m cooking this, but I promise, the end result is worth a few splatters. Besides, it’s all part of the fun, right?

Background & Origin

Slow-cooked meals have been a beloved tradition in many cultures, celebrated for their rich flavors that develop over time. The concept of slow-cooking beef not only tenderizes the meat but also allows the herbs and spices to infuse it with depth that quick methods can’t compete with. Historically, this type of cooking was all about using less expensive cuts of meat, transforming them into tender comfort food over a long, leisurely process.

Our family’s version of Slow Cooked Beef Buns with Roasties and Pigs in Blankets has evolved from my grandmother’s original recipe. The addition of pigs in blankets—those delightful sausages snug in their bacon wrap—turned an already comforting dish into an irresistible feast. What I love most about this recipe is how it simplifies the slow-cooking process while maximizing flavor. Plus, it can all cook together, which means less time at the stove and more time with your loved ones.

Ingredients

• Beef brisket or roast
• Buns (soft and fluffy for the beef)
• Roast potatoes (about 2 pounds, peeled and chopped)
• Pigs in blankets (small sausages wrapped in bacon)
• Onions (2 medium, diced)
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
• Beef broth (4 cups, homemade or store-bought)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Olive oil (for searing)
• Herbs (such as thyme or rosemary; fresh or dried)

Helpful Notes:

• It helps to have your beef at room temperature before cooking.
• Finely chopped or softened garlic and onions will blend smoothly into the sauce.
• Feel free to add in some carrots or celery for extra nutrition.
• If you’re short on time, pre-packaged roast potatoes can be an easy substitute.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season & Sear the Beef: Pat the beef brisket dry, then generously season with salt and pepper. In a slow cooker or a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until beautifully browned—about 3-4 minutes per side. This caramelization adds incredible flavor!

2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Remove the beef and set it aside on a plate. In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until they’re soft and fragrant.

3. Slow Cook the Beef: Return the seared beef to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle your favorite herbs over the top. Cover and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is fork-tender and infused with all those delicious flavors.

4. Prepare the Roast Potatoes: About 30-40 minutes before the beef is done, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Chop the peeled potatoes into chunks, season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 30 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy.

5. Make the Pigs in Blankets: Wrap each sausage in a slice of bacon and place them on a separate baking sheet. Bake in the oven alongside your potatoes until crispy—about 20 minutes.

6. Assemble & Serve: Once the beef is cooked, shred it into the buns and layer on those tender onions. Serve with a generous side of roast potatoes and pigs in blankets for the ultimate comforting meal!

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes

• Flavor Boosters: Don’t hesitate to add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of mustard to the beef broth for an extra kick.
• Texture Tricks: For a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the broth 30 minutes before serving.
• Prep Ahead: You can sear the beef and chop your veggies the night before to save time. Just store everything in the fridge and combine when ready to cook.
• What NOT to Do: Avoid using a tough cut of meat; it won’t yield the same tender result. Also, resist the urge to lift the lid of the slow cooker too often—it lets valuable steam escape!

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan or Dairy-Free Options: Swap the beef for jackfruit or mushrooms and use vegetable broth. A good plant-based BBQ sauce can work wonders too.
• Gluten-Free Swaps: Use gluten-free buns and ensure your bacon is also gluten-free.
• Lighter Versions: Instead of buns, serve the beef over a bed of greens or quinoa for a low-carb alternative.
• Kid-Friendly: For picky eaters, serve the beef in mini sliders or as a taco filling, giving them options to customize with toppings.
• Budget-Friendly: Use less expensive cuts of beef like chuck or shoulder, which work beautifully when cooked slowly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Slow Cooked Beef Buns with simple sides like a fresh green salad or steam some mixed vegetables for a pop of color. For drinks, a hearty red wine complements the richness of the beef nicely. If you want to impress, serve with a small bowl of horseradish or a gourmet mustard to elevate the experience.

When plating, let the beef peek out of the bun, sprinkle a bit of fresh herbs on top, and arrange the roast potatoes and pigs in blankets artfully beside it.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating

Leftovers are a gift! Store any uneaten beef, buns, and sides in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the beef on its own for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place in the fridge overnight—and for reheating, a gentle low heat on the stovetop does the trick without drying it out.

Nutrition & Health Notes

This meal is hearty, offering a good protein boost thanks to the beef especially when served with nutty grains or legumes. The calorie range can vary widely, but you’re looking at around 450-600 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and toppings. Opt for whole grain buns or more veggies for a lighter twist!

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make Slow Cooked Beef Buns with Roasties and Pigs in Blankets ahead of time?
  Yes! You can prepare everything the day before and just reheat before serving.

• How do I thicken or thin it?
  For a thicker sauce, mix a slurry of cornstarch and water; for a thinner sauce, add more broth.

• What substitutions work best?
  You can swap out the beef for any meat you prefer or even go vegetarian with jackfruit.

• Can I double or halve the recipe?
  Absolutely! Just adjust your cooking time accordingly.

• What cookware should I use?
  A slow cooker works perfectly, but any heavy pot will do as long as it is covered tightly.

• Can I make it dairy-free or meat-free?
  Yes! Use plant-based meat alternatives and vegetable broth.

• What sides go well with it?
  A fresh salad or seasoned veggies balance the rich flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Cooking is all about warmth, love, and creating memories with those you cherish. These Slow Cooked Beef Buns with Roasties and Pigs in Blankets are more than just a meal; they’re a family tradition. I can’t wait for you to share this dish with your loved ones. Feel free to drop a comment below with your thoughts or any tips you have for making this special dish. What’s your favorite comfort food?