Some meals don’t demand culinary flair or a long list of exotic ingredients—they simply deliver comfort, heart, and nostalgia on a plate. Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast, often known by its military nickname “SOS,” is one of those enduring staples that wraps you in warmth with every bite.
Whether it reminds you of breakfast at grandma’s table or echoes the memory of mess hall mornings, this humble dish blends creamy richness with savory depth in a way that never grows old. And best of all? It comes together fast using basic pantry items.
What Is Creamed Chipped Beef?
Creamed chipped beef is a traditional, stick-to-your-ribs dish made with thinly sliced dried beef—usually from a jar or vacuum pack—swirled into a simple white sauce and ladled generously over toasted bread.
It’s salty, creamy, comforting, and distinctly old-fashioned in the best way. The briny beef and silky roux-based sauce are the perfect match, especially when spooned over a slice of crisp, buttery toast.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 jar (2.5 oz) dried beef, rinsed and sliced into strips
- Black pepper to taste
- 4 slices of toasted bread (white, wheat, or sourdough)
How to Make It
- Rinse the dried beef briefly in warm water to reduce excess salt. Pat dry, then slice into narrow strips.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until foamy.
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for about a minute to form a smooth, pale roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent clumps.
- Bring the mixture to a low simmer. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the sliced beef and stir to combine. Let it warm through for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper.
- Serve immediately over toasted bread slices.
Pro Tips
- Want it even richer? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or an extra pat of butter at the end.
- Looking for added nuance? A pinch of paprika or freshly grated nutmeg adds a subtle layer of flavor.
- Craving a twist? Crown it with a poached egg for an elevated brunch moment.
Why This Dish Endures
Creamed chipped beef on toast is more than sustenance—it’s a thread of history. It speaks of Sunday mornings, frugal meals shared during hard times, and the kind of cooking that comes from care rather than complexity.
Its rustic charm, quick prep, and comforting flavor make it a perennial favorite that bridges generations.
Final Thought
If you’ve never tasted this time-tested dish, now’s your chance. And if it’s been years since your last serving, let this be the nudge to bring it back to your kitchen table—just the way it used to be.