Are you craving a hearty and comforting breakfast that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further than this classic Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast recipe! With tender slices of dried beef smothered in a creamy, peppery sauce, this dish is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger. Join us as we guide you through each step of creating this timeless favorite and offer tips for making it your own.
Ingredients:
- 1 jar dried beef, sliced into thin ribbons
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- Pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dried Beef: Start by slicing the dried beef into thin ribbons. This will ensure that it cooks evenly and blends well with the creamy sauce.
- Make the Roux: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously until smooth and golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. This mixture is called a roux and will serve as the thickening agent for the sauce.
- Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and reaches a smooth, creamy consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
- Incorporate the Dried Beef: Add the sliced dried beef to the creamy sauce, stirring to combine. Allow the beef to simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to heat through and absorb the flavors.
- Season to Taste: Season the creamed chipped beef with freshly ground black pepper to taste. The dried beef is naturally salty, so additional salt may not be necessary.
- Serve on Toast: Spoon the creamy chipped beef over slices of toasted bread or biscuits. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
Now that you’ve mastered the basic recipe, let’s explore some tips and variations to customize this dish to your liking:
- Add Flavor with Onions: Saute finely chopped onions in the butter before adding the flour to add depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Spice it Up: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Experiment with Herbs: Enhance the flavor of the dish by adding dried herbs such as thyme, parsley, or chives to the sauce.
- Try Different Bread: Instead of traditional toast, serve the creamed chipped beef over biscuits, English muffins, or even mashed potatoes for a hearty twist.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications you can make to adapt this recipe:
- Replace Flour with Xanthan Gum: Substitute xanthan gum for the all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce without adding carbs.
- Use Heavy Cream: Replace the whole milk with heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce that’s lower in carbs.
- Serve Over Cauliflower Rice: Instead of toast, serve the creamed chipped beef over cauliflower rice or sauteed spinach for a keto-friendly option.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
As you embark on your culinary journey, you may have some questions. Here are answers to some common queries about making Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast:
Q: Can I use fresh beef instead of dried beef? A: While dried beef is traditional for this recipe, you can use thinly sliced cooked roast beef or deli roast beef as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as fresh beef may not be as salty as dried beef.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the creamed chipped beef ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much upon reheating.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this dish? A: While you can freeze leftover creamed chipped beef, the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Q: What else can I serve with creamed chipped beef? A: Creamed chipped beef pairs well with a variety of breakfast sides, such as scrambled eggs, hash browns, roasted vegetables, or fresh fruit.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free? A: No, this recipe contains flour, which is not gluten-free. However, you can use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickening agent to make a gluten-free version of the sauce.
In conclusion, Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast is a timeless classic that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. With its creamy, savory sauce and tender slices of dried beef, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you enjoy it on a lazy Sunday morning or as a comforting dinner option, creamed chipped beef is guaranteed to warm your soul and satisfy your appetite. So why wait? Give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to delight your taste buds!
