Name: Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 4 ounces chipped beef; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 4 slices toasted bread

Savory, creamy, and loaded with nostalgic comfort, this Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast recipe is a timeless American classic that deserves a permanent spot in your breakfast or brunch rotation. Whether you know it as “S.O.S” from your grandparents or just discovered it, this simple dish brings together creamy white gravy and salty dried beef for a rich, satisfying bite.

Served over warm, buttery toast, this old-school dish is fast, affordable, and ultra-satisfying. It comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy mornings or late-night comfort food cravings.

What Kind of Beef is Used in Creamed Chipped Beef?

Chipped beef is a type of pressed, salted, and air-dried beef that comes thinly sliced and often packaged in jars or vacuum-sealed packets. It has a savory, slightly salty flavor that pairs perfectly with a creamy milk-based gravy. If you can’t find chipped beef, thinly sliced dried beef or even chopped pastrami can be used as a substitute.

Ingredients for the Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast

Chipped Beef
This is the key ingredient. It adds a salty punch and the signature taste of this traditional dish.

Butter
Used to make the roux and create that silky gravy base.

All-Purpose Flour
Thickens the milk into a rich, spoon-coating gravy.

Whole Milk
Gives the dish its creamy texture. You can use half-and-half for extra richness.

Black Pepper
Adds depth and a hint of heat to balance the saltiness of the beef.

Toasted Bread
The base that soaks up the savory gravy. Use thick-cut white bread, sourdough, or Texas toast for best results.

How To Make the Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Rinse the chipped beef under cold water to reduce excess salt, then pat dry and slice into bite-sized pieces or strips.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute until it turns a light golden color and forms a smooth paste.

Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce

Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens into a creamy gravy—this usually takes 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Beef and Seasoning

Stir in the chopped chipped beef and black pepper. Simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to warm through.

Step 5: Toast the Bread

While the gravy simmers, toast your bread slices until golden brown. Butter the toast if desired.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon the creamed chipped beef generously over the toast. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Serve and Store Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast

Serve this dish piping hot right after preparing it. It’s best enjoyed fresh when the gravy is creamy and the toast is crisp. You can garnish with parsley or a pinch of paprika for color, but it’s delicious even without extras.

To store leftovers, transfer the beef and gravy to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen it up. Always toast fresh bread when serving leftovers—soggy toast just won’t cut it.

What to Serve With Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast?

Soft Scrambled Eggs

Their fluffy texture pairs beautifully with the creamy beef.

Crispy Hash Browns

For that extra breakfast crunch on the side.

Sliced Tomatoes or Stewed Tomatoes

A bit of acidity to balance out the richness.

Fresh Fruit or Fruit Salad

Lightens up the meal and gives a touch of natural sweetness.

Pickled Beets

Old-school diners sometimes serve these as a tangy companion.

Hot Coffee or Black Tea

Because no comfort breakfast is complete without it.

Orange Juice or Tomato Juice

For a fresh and zesty morning sip.

More Cozy Breakfast Classics You’ll Love

If this Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast made your morning, here are more recipes to keep the comfort going:

Fluffy Pancakes if you want a stack of golden comfort.
Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole for make-ahead morning ease.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites when you want sweet and cozy.
Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies for a nostalgic snack after breakfast.
Classic Chicken Salad Recipe for lunch after a hearty breakfast.

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Have you been making this since childhood? Or is this your first taste of chipped beef? Let me know in the comments how you serve it up!

Explore nostalgic favorites and modern twists on classic dishes at ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and find your next crave-worthy bite.

Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast Recipe

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Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 2 servings

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Description

Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast is a nostalgic, comforting dish made with salty dried beef folded into a smooth and creamy white gravy, served over golden buttered toast. This classic breakfast idea, often called “S.O.S.,” is quick, affordable, and satisfying—perfect for easy dinners, lazy weekend brunches, or old-fashioned food ideas that never go out of style. It’s one of those easy recipes that brings warmth to your table with simple pantry ingredients.