Homemade Creamed Chipped Beef Recipe
Classic Homemade Creamed Chipped Beef is a comforting American dish featuring savory dried beef in a creamy white sauce, served over toasted sourdough or brioche bread. This rich and flavorful recipe combines a buttery roux with whole milk to create a smooth, velvety gravy seasoned with black pepper and a hint of nutmeg, perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
- Author: mia
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Beef and Sauce
- 4 oz dried beef (jarred or pouched)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
To Serve
- 4–6 thick slices of sourdough or brioche bread
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Prepare the beef: Remove the dried beef from its packaging and rinse under cold water to reduce saltiness. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels, then chop into approximately 1/2-inch pieces.
- Melt the butter: Place a large skillet over medium heat and melt the 1/4 cup of unsalted butter until fully liquefied and slightly bubbling.
- Create the roux: Sprinkle the 1/4 cup flour evenly over the melted butter and whisk continuously for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour flavor and form a smooth paste.
- Add milk gradually: Slowly whisk in the 3 cups of whole milk a little at a time, ensuring the mixture remains smooth with no lumps forming.
- Thicken the sauce: Continue to cook while stirring frequently, allowing the sauce to thicken and come to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate beef and seasoning: Stir in the chopped dried beef along with 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper and an optional pinch of ground nutmeg. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Toast the bread: While the beef mixture simmers, toast 4 to 6 thick slices of sourdough or brioche until golden brown, then lightly butter each slice.
- Serve: Generously spoon the warm creamed chipped beef mixture over the toasted bread slices.
- Garnish and enjoy: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and additional black pepper on top if desired, and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Rinsing the dried beef helps reduce its intense saltiness, making the dish more balanced.
- Use whole milk for a rich and creamy sauce; low-fat or skim milk will yield a thinner texture.
- Freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice flavor contrast and subtle heat.
- Sourdough or brioche bread works best for toasting due to their texture and taste, but any sturdy bread will do.
- For a nut-free version, omit the ground nutmeg entirely.
- This dish pairs well with a side of fresh fruit or a light green salad.
Keywords: Creamed chipped beef, dried beef gravy, creamy beef sauce, breakfast skillet, savory white sauce, comfort food, traditional American recipe