Introduction

Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast, often affectionately known as “SOS” (a classic U.S. military term),
is a comforting and nostalgic dish that combines creamy, savory gravy with thinly sliced dried beef served
over toasted bread. It’s hearty, simple, and deeply satisfying — a perfect breakfast, brunch, or even dinner
option when you crave something warm and filling.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred for creaminess)
• 1 jar (2.5 ounces) dried beef, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 4 slices of toast (white, wheat, or sourdough)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Rinse the dried beef under cold water to remove excess salt, then pat dry with paper towels. Chop into bite-size pieces.
2. Make the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a smooth paste.
3. Add the milk: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce — about 3–5 minutes.
4. Add beef and season: Stir in the chopped beef, black pepper, and garlic powder. Lower the heat and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
5. Serve: Spoon the creamed chipped beef mixture over toasted bread slices. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Description

This dish delivers a delicious balance of salty, creamy, and buttery flavors.
The silky white sauce perfectly coats the savory dried beef, and when served over crisp toast,
it creates a comforting texture contrast. It’s a simple recipe with an old-fashioned feel —
rich enough for a weekend breakfast but quick enough for a weekday meal.

Tips

• Control the salt: Dried beef is naturally salty, so rinsing it before cooking is key. Taste before adding any extra salt.
• Texture control: For a thicker gravy, let the sauce simmer longer. For a thinner consistency, stir in a little more milk.
• Upgrade it: Add a dash of hot sauce, Worcestershire, or a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth.
• Serving idea: Serve with scrambled eggs or roasted potatoes for a complete breakfast.

Correction

If your sauce becomes too thick, whisk in a few tablespoons of warm milk until it reaches your preferred consistency.
If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer or add a touch more flour (dissolved in cold milk first to avoid lumps).