Creamed Chipped Beef is a classic American comfort-food recipe made with tender chipped dried beef simmered in a rich, creamy white sauce. Served over crispy golden toast, this simple and hearty dish makes an easy breakfast, brunch, or comforting weeknight meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Creamed Beef
- 4 oz (115 g) dried chipped beef
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, optional
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, optional
For Serving
- 8 slices toasted bread
- Butter, for toast
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef
Separate the dried beef slices and cut or tear them into small pieces.
Because chipped dried beef can be quite salty, rinse it briefly under warm water and drain well before cooking.
- Make the Cream Sauce
Melt the butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1–2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and the raw flour smell disappears.
- Add the Milk
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and noticeably thickened.
- Add the Beef
Stir in the chopped dried beef and black pepper.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is heated through and the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Taste before adding salt—the dried beef usually provides plenty of seasoning.
- Serve
Toast the bread until golden and crisp.
Spoon the hot creamed chipped beef generously over the toast. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Pro Tips
- Rinse the beef: This helps remove some of the excess salt.
- Add milk slowly: Whisking continuously creates a smoother sauce.
- Don’t add salt too early: Taste the finished sauce first because dried beef is naturally salty.
- Adjust the consistency: Add a splash of milk if the sauce becomes too thick.
- Best served hot: The sauce thickens as it cools, so serve immediately over freshly toasted bread.
Serving Ideas
Creamed Chipped Beef is traditionally served over toast, but you can also serve it over:
- Buttermilk biscuits
- English muffins
- Baked potatoes
- Mashed potatoes
- Waffles
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a small splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamed Chipped Beef?
It is a classic dish made with dried chipped beef cooked in a creamy white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk, traditionally served over toast.
Why is my sauce too thick?
The sauce naturally thickens as it cooks and cools. Simply whisk in a little extra milk until you reach the consistency you like.
Can I make it less salty?
Yes. Briefly rinsing or soaking the dried beef before cooking can reduce some of its saltiness.
What can I serve with it?
Toast is the classic choice, but biscuits, potatoes, waffles, and English muffins also work beautifully.