Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast – A Classic, Cozy Comfort Dish 🥄🍞
Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast, often lovingly called “SOS” in military slang, is one of those timeless recipes that brings back memories of cozy breakfasts or simple, hearty dinners. With salty strips of dried beef swimming in a creamy, peppery white sauce, all spooned over crisp, golden toast—it’s comfort food in its simplest form.
This dish is fast, filling, and made with basic pantry staples, making it perfect for a last-minute meal when you want something warm and satisfying.
Why It’s a Favorite
The creamy gravy, the salty beef, the crunch of the toast—everything just works together. It’s budget-friendly, takes just 15 minutes to make, and tastes like something Grandma used to serve. Perfect for cold mornings or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 jar (2.5 oz) dried beef, sliced into thin strips
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or more to taste)
- 4 slices of toasted bread (white, wheat, or sourdough all work)
- Optional: pinch of garlic powder or paprika for added flavor
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, forming a roux.
- Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Stir until the sauce thickens (about 4–5 minutes).
- Add the sliced dried beef and black pepper. Stir and simmer for another 2 minutes.
- Spoon the creamy mixture generously over hot, buttered toast.
- Optional: sprinkle with paprika or parsley for a little color.
Tips and Variations
- If the beef is very salty, rinse it briefly in warm water or soak it for 5 minutes before slicing.
- For a richer flavor, swap some milk with a splash of cream.
- Add peas or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture.
- Serve it over biscuits, hash browns, or baked potatoes for a twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store the creamed beef in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of milk.
Q: Is there a gluten-free version?
Use gluten-free flour and serve it over gluten-free toast or mashed potatoes.
Q: Can I use fresh beef instead of dried?
You can, but it changes the flavor. Dried beef gives it that traditional salty, savory taste.
Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast is simple, nostalgic, and incredibly comforting—just the kind of meal you turn to when you want something easy and soul-warming.
