If you’re looking to revisit a retro classic or simply craving the ultimate in comfort food, Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast is calling your name. This dish’s savory, creamy goodness is as welcome at a bustling breakfast table as it is for a quick-fix lunch, offering a rich, luscious sauce studded with tender beef, all blanketing perfectly toasted bread. Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast is a taste of nostalgia that’s hearty, unfussy, and endlessly satisfying, making it a favorite anyone can whip up in moments—and one everyone will want to dig into as soon as it hits the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a small handful of everyday ingredients to make this iconic comfort meal—each playing a crucial role in creating the deliciously silky sauce, meaty bite, and golden toast beneath. Simplicity is key, but don’t underestimate how each item brings depth and irresistible flavor to this retro favorite!
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons): Starts the roux, adding richness to the base sauce and ensuring smoothness in every bite.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the sauce to the perfect, creamy consistency—it’s the backbone of a classic béchamel.
- Whole Milk (2 cups): The secret to that velvety, luscious texture; whole milk adds body and balances the salty beef.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just a hint wakes up the flavors and adds gentle warmth.
- Garlic Powder (1/8 teaspoon, optional): A subtle, savory layer—try it if you love a touch of extra depth.
- Onion Powder (1/8 teaspoon, optional): Lends mellow sweetness and enhances the overall savoriness of the sauce.
- Dried Beef (1 jar, 2.5 ounces), rinsed and chopped: The star ingredient! Rinsing reduces the saltiness for a perfectly balanced bite.
- White or Sourdough Bread (4 slices, toasted): Sturdy enough to hold heaps of creamed chipped beef and soak up every last bit of sauce.
How to Make Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast
Step 1: Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, add the unsalted butter and let it melt completely. Once bubbling, whisk in the all-purpose flour. Keep stirring for 1–2 minutes so the flour cooks out its raw taste, and your roux turns a very pale golden hue. This essential step ensures the final sauce is creamy and never grainy.
Step 2: Whisk in the Milk
With the roux ready, gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking constantly to keep the sauce lump-free. Continue whisking as the milk slowly thickens—it’s like magic watching it go from thin to decadently silky in just a few minutes! Keep the heat at medium and don’t walk away so you catch that perfect creamy moment.
Step 3: Season the Sauce
Sprinkle in the black pepper and, if you like extra flavor, the garlic and onion powders too. Stir everything together until the aromatics are fragrant and perfectly blended into the sauce. This is where the creamy base gets even more inviting, with just the right amount of seasoning to spotlight the beefy centerpiece.
Step 4: Add the Dried Beef
Add the chopped, rinsed dried beef directly into the bubbling sauce. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, so the beef softens and releases its savory flavor into the cream. The result: hearty bites of beef nestled in a dreamy, rich sauce—absolutely mouthwatering.
Step 5: Toast the Bread and Assemble
While your creamy beef finishes on the stove, toast your favorite bread slices to golden perfection. Lay the toast onto warm plates and spoon generous helpings of the creamed chipped beef over each slice. Serve immediately, while piping hot and glossy. Dig in and enjoy that first forkful of pure comfort!
How to Serve Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley lends a lovely touch of color and freshness. You can also add a twist of extra black pepper or a side of sliced scallions for a burst of green and gentle bite. For those feeling adventurous, a dash of hot sauce right before serving can add vibrant heat without overpowering the classic flavors of Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast.
Side Dishes
This dish shines when paired with eggs—think sunny-side-up or softly scrambled to soak up the extra sauce. Roasted potatoes, sautéed spinach, or even a crisp green salad also make stellar companions. For a sweet touch (and a retro nod), serve with a glass of orange juice or fresh fruit on the side to balance the savory richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast isn’t just for plain slices! Try ladling the creamy mixture over toasted English muffins for mini open-faced sandwiches, or atop flaky biscuits for a Southern spin. If you’re feeding a crowd, turn it into a comforting casserole layered with bread cubes and baked until bubbly. However you serve it, this dish always feels cozy and nostalgic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any cooled leftover creamed chipped beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to three days, retaining its creamy texture and robust flavor when reheated.
Freezing
Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast sauce can be frozen (without the toast!) in an airtight container for up to two months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and give it a good stir to reincorporate any separated liquids.
Reheating
Gently reheat the creamed beef in a saucepan over low heat, stirring often. If the mixture seems too thick after chilling, add a splash of milk to bring it back to its original creamy consistency. Always serve reheated sauce atop freshly toasted bread for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Breakfast, Main Course
Feel free to experiment with other cured or cooked meats like thinly sliced roast beef, chipped ham, or even leftover corned beef. Just keep in mind that the classic Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast gets its signature flavor from dried beef, but swaps can make this dish your own.
Is it possible to make Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the regular flour, and use gluten-free bread for toasting. The sauce thickens up beautifully and everyone can enjoy this comforting meal.
What if I find the dried beef too salty?
Rinse the beef thoroughly under cold water, and if needed, soak it for a few minutes before chopping. This really helps mellow out the saltiness, so your Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast is wonderfully balanced every time.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time for brunch guests?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and keep it in your fridge one or two days ahead. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove and toast the bread fresh—it’ll taste just as delightful as if made from scratch that morning.
Is there a way to lighten up this dish?
To make Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast a touch lighter, use low-fat milk and swap in a plant-based butter. Whole wheat toast also makes for a heartier, higher-fiber base, but you’ll keep all the nostalgic flavor you love.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after cozy flavors and timeless satisfaction, you can’t go wrong with Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast. This recipe is a breeze to make, irresistibly creamy, and always welcomed, whether you’re serving it up for breakfast, brunch, or whenever comfort food is calling. Go ahead—grab some dried beef and your favorite bread, and treat yourself to a plateful of nostalgia today!
Print
Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast is a classic American comfort food dish, also known as ‘SOS’ or ‘Sh*t on a Shingle.’ This hearty meal features a creamy beef gravy served over crispy toast slices, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or lunch.
Ingredients
For the Creamed Beef:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/8 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1 jar (2.5 ounces) dried beef, rinsed and chopped
For Serving:
- 4 slices of toasted white or sourdough bread
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a smooth roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy, about 4–5 minutes.
- Stir in the pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder if using. Add the chopped dried beef and simmer for 2–3 more minutes until heated through.
- Toast the bread slices to your desired crispness. Spoon the creamed beef mixture generously over each slice of toast and serve warm.
Notes
- To reduce saltiness, rinse or soak the dried beef in water before chopping.
- This dish is traditionally served as a hearty breakfast or lunch and pairs well with fried eggs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices with topping
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 31 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
