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Homemade Creamed Chipped Beef Recipe

4.8 from 89 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  • 46 thick slices of sourdough or brioche bread
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Thicken the sauce: Continue to cook while stirring frequently, allowing the sauce to thicken and come to a gentle simmer.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. Serve: Generously spoon the warm creamed chipped beef mixture over the toasted bread slices.
  9. 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