Chip beef on toast

Here’s a classic comfort food recipe for Chipped Beef on Toast — often affectionately (or not-so-affectionately) known as “S.O.S.” (Same Old Stuff) in military circles. It’s savory, creamy, salty, and easy to whip up in under 15 minutes.

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🍞 Chipped Beef on Toast (Creamed Chipped Beef)

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred for creaminess)

• 1 jar (2.5 oz) dried beef (like Hormel or Armour), sliced into strips or chopped

• Black pepper, to taste

• Pinch of cayenne (optional, for a kick)

• 4 slices of toasted bread (white, sourdough, or your favorite)

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👨‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Prep the Beef:

   • Rinse the dried beef slices under cold water briefly to reduce excess salt, then pat dry and slice into thin strips or small pieces.

2. Make the Roux:

   • In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

   • Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux.

3. Make the Cream Sauce:

   • Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

   • Cook for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.

4. Add the Beef:

   • Stir in the chopped beef and let it heat through for 2–3 minutes.

   • Season with black pepper and a pinch of cayenne if desired. (Salt is usually unnecessary because the beef is already salty.)

5. Serve:

   • Spoon generously over toasted bread slices.

   • Serve immediately — traditionally with a side of eggs or hash browns for breakfast, or just on its own as a hearty meal.

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💡 Tips & Variations:

• Add peas or mushrooms for a twist.

• Make it richer by using a mix of milk and cream.

• Serve over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or puff pastry for a different take.

Would you like a printable version or a “from-scratch” version with homemade dried beef?