Classic Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast Recipe: A Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients:
- 1 jar of dried beef slices, rinsed well & chopped
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp flour
- Pinch of cayenne
- 2 cups milk
- Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste
- Bread, toasted
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) for toasting the bread.
- Rinse the dried beef slices well to remove excess salt; pat dry with a paper towel.
- Chop beef into small, bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and a pinch of cayenne pepper; whisk until well combined and cooked for about 45 seconds.
- Gradually add milk, continuously whisking to prevent lumps.
- Once the milk is fully incorporated, add chopped dried beef.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
- Season with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste.
- Serve the creamed beef hot over toasted bread.
- Garnish with additional pepper or parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
FAQs:
- What is Creamed Chipped Beef? Creamed Chipped Beef, often known as “S.O.S.” in military slang, is a traditional American dish. It consists of thinly sliced dried beef in a creamy, seasoned roux-based sauce, typically served over toasted bread.
- Can I use fresh beef instead of dried beef? While dried beef is traditional for its unique flavor and texture, you can use thinly sliced fresh beef or ground beef as a substitute. Adjust the seasoning accordingly, as dried beef is usually saltier.
- Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free? Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend for the roux and ensuring that your dried beef and bread are gluten-free.
- Can I prepare Creamed Chipped Beef in advance? This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it gently while adding a little extra milk if it’s too thick.
- What are some variations of this recipe? Variations include adding sautéed onions or mushrooms to the sauce, using different types of cheese for extra flavor, or serving it over biscuits, hash browns, or pasta instead of toast.
- How long can I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk if the sauce has thickened.
- Is Creamed Chipped Beef suitable for freezing? It’s not recommended to freeze creamed chipped beef as the dairy-based sauce might separate and lose its creamy texture upon thawing and reheating.
- What can I serve with Creamed Chipped Beef? It pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a simple salad, or fruit for a balanced meal.
- Can I use a different type of milk for the sauce? Yes, you can use any milk of your choice including whole, 2%, skim, or even a non-dairy alternative like almond or soy milk.
- Is Creamed Chipped Beef a healthy dish? While it’s a comfort food, it can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. You can make it healthier by using low-fat milk, less butter, and serving it with whole-grain bread and a side of vegetables.