Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast – A Classic Comfort Dish
This old-school favorite, also known as “SOS” by many, is a savory and creamy dish that’s easy to prepare and full of nostalgic flavor. Thin slices of dried beef are folded into a rich, peppery white gravy and spooned generously over crisp toast – simple, filling, and so satisfying.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warm)
1 jar (2.5 oz) dried beef, sliced into strips
Black pepper, to taste
4 slices of bread (toasted)
Optional: pinch of cayenne, chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbling.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to make a roux (it should look like a paste).
- Slowly add the warm milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook until it thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
- Stir in the sliced dried beef and season with black pepper (and cayenne, if using).
- Let simmer on low for a couple of minutes to blend flavors.
- Spoon the creamed beef generously over buttered toast. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Add a fried or poached egg on top for breakfast-style.
- Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or sautéed greens.
- Try it on biscuits instead of toast for a Southern twist!
Nutrition Facts (Approx. per serving with 1 slice of toast)
Calories | 280 kcal |
Fat | 14 g |
Carbs | 24 g |
Protein | 12 g |
Sodium | 870 mg |
FAQs
Q: What is chipped beef?
Chipped beef is thinly sliced, dried, and salted beef that comes jarred or packaged. It’s known for its long shelf life and savory punch.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend.
Q: How do I reduce the saltiness?
You can rinse the beef slices under cold water and pat dry to remove some salt before adding them to the sauce.