If you’re searching for the ultimate nostalgic comfort food, let me introduce you to Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast. This beloved classic graces many family tables, bringing together silky, savory sauce, ribbons of salty beef, and crunchy toasted bread in every bite. Each forkful holds the warmth of home-cooked tradition and the simple joy that only this dish can deliver. Whether you know it as “S.O.S.” or by its classic name, Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast is one of those recipes that’s delicious, affordable, and fast enough for even the busiest weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a small handful of straightforward pantry staples, you’ll have everything necessary to whip up authentic Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast in absolutely no time. Each ingredient plays its vital part, from adding subtle richness to infusing every spoonful with craveable flavor.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons): This buttery foundation sets the stage for a velvety, smooth sauce.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): The key to that lusciously thick and creamy texture, flour binds it all together.
- Whole Milk (2 cups): Full-bodied milk guarantees your sauce is dreamy, rich, and never watery.
- Dried Beef (1 jar, 2.5 ounces): The heart of the recipe, rinsed and chopped dried beef adds its signature depth and bold bite—remember to rinse to keep it just salty enough!
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A simple sprinkle of pepper unlocks a subtle heat and earthy contrast.
- Cayenne Pepper (pinch, optional): For a gentle kick and extra warmth, just a pinch is all it takes.
- Toasted White or Sourdough Bread (4 slices): The ideal vehicle to soak up every last bit of creamy sauce.
How to Make Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast
Step 1: Make a Simple Roux
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted and gently bubbling, whisk in the all-purpose flour. Let this mixture cook for about a minute—enough so that the flour loses its raw taste but avoids any browning. This classic roux is the base for your irresistible sauce.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce
Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking constantly as you go. This ensures your sauce stays silky and lump-free. Keep stirring and simmering for 4 to 5 minutes as everything thickens to that beautiful, pourable consistency. Patience here makes all the difference in achieving the perfect texture for Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast.
Step 3: Add the Beef and Season
Gently fold in the rinsed and chopped dried beef. Sprinkle in the black pepper and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of cayenne. Stir until the beef is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Let the mixture simmer together for about 2 more minutes so everything’s warmed through and deliciously melded.
Step 4: Toast the Bread
While your sauce is finishing up, pop your favorite bread slices into the toaster until golden and crisp. Sourdough or white bread both work beautifully—just choose whichever you love most. The crunch will be the perfect match for your luxuriously creamy topping.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Place two slices of toast on each plate, then ladle the hot, savory chipped beef sauce generously over the top. Grab a fork and dive in—this Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast is absolute comfort in every bite.
How to Serve Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast
Garnishes
Though it’s rich and satisfying on its own, a sprinkling of chopped fresh parsley or snipped chives adds color and a burst of freshness to your finished plate. You can also dust on extra black pepper or a light pinch of paprika for a subtly smoky finish, making each serving of Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast just a touch more special.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty, so lighter sides work best. Try serving alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some gently steamed green beans or asparagus. For a hearty breakfast spin, serve with a side of fried or poached eggs—there’s nothing like yolk mingling with that dreamy sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
While traditional presentation is always a hit, you can layer Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast over split, buttered biscuits for a Southern diner twist, or spoon the sauce onto oven-toasted English muffins for a delightful brunch surprise. Mini toast rounds transform this into perfect party appetizers—classic comfort reinvented.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, simply transfer any extra creamed beef sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate it. It’ll keep well for up to three days, making it a fantastic make-ahead option that reheats beautifully.
Freezing
Creamed sauces can be a bit tricky to freeze, but you’ll have good luck with this one. Allow the sauce to cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers. Label and freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy again, give it a gentle stir as it reheats to bring back its silky texture.
Reheating
To bring your leftover Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast sauce back to life, reheat it slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You can add a splash of milk to loosen it up if it’s become too thick. Microwave reheating works in a pinch; just use short bursts and give a thorough stir in between.
FAQs
Can I use corned beef instead of dried beef?
If dried beef isn’t available, you can substitute thin-sliced corned beef or even deli pastrami. The flavor will be slightly different, but you’ll still get that salty, savory kick everyone loves in Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast.
Is there a low-sodium way to make this recipe?
Definitely! Rinse the dried beef several times under cold water to remove as much salt as possible, and consider using low-sodium butter or milk. If sodium is a major concern, look for reduced-salt dried beef at your grocery store.
Can I make this gluten-free?
To go gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a cup-for-cup gluten-free blend, and serve over your favorite gluten-free bread or toast. The creamy sauce and flavor will be just as comforting!
What is the origin of Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast?
This dish has deep roots in American culinary history, especially in the military where it was fondly (and sometimes not-so-fondly) called “S.O.S.” Soldiers enjoyed it for its simplicity, affordability, and stick-to-your-ribs satisfaction, and now it’s a beloved piece of comfort food nostalgia.
Can I add vegetables or herbs to the sauce?
Absolutely! For a twist, try stirring in a handful of sautéed mushrooms, chopped spinach, or diced red bell pepper. Fresh herbs like thyme or chives add lovely brightness as well without overpowering the central flavors of Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, give Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast a spot on your table. It’s quick, satisfying, and unbelievably comforting—perfect for weeknights, weekend brunches, or any day you want a taste of classic home cooking. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds!
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Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A classic American comfort food dish, Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast, also known as S.O.S., is a creamy and savory sauce made with dried beef served over toasted bread slices. This nostalgic recipe is quick to make and perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Main Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 jar (2.5 ounces) dried beef, rinsed and chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Serving:
- 4 slices of toasted white or sourdough bread
Instructions
- Making the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, about 4–5 minutes.
- Adding Beef: Add the chopped dried beef and stir to combine. Season with black pepper and cayenne if using. Simmer for another 2 minutes until heated through.
- Serving: Serve hot over toasted bread slices.
Notes
- Rinse the dried beef thoroughly to reduce saltiness.
- For a richer version, replace half the milk with heavy cream.
- This dish is also known as “S.O.S.” and is a nostalgic comfort food for many.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
