Classic chipped beef gravy on toast, made with just 6 ingredients it's an old-fashioned recipe that kids and adults both love.

Today, I’m diving into a dish that’s close to many of our hearts: the humble yet always satisfying Chipped Beef Gravy on Toast! Known by its affectionate (and a bit cheeky) nickname, S.O.S, this meal is a real blast from the past. With its velvety white gravy, savory bits of dried beef, and a little kick of cayenne, chipped beef gravy is the kind of comfort food that many of us remember enjoying at Grandma’s cozy kitchen table. Plus, it’s really simple to make, yet undeniably delicious!

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chipped beef gravy on toast garnished with herbs on a white plate

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Chipped beef gravy was originally cooked up to feed hungry troops; this hearty meal quickly became a beloved staple in Southern homes, known for its ability to bring smiles to the breakfast table without breaking the bank. The best part about the chipped beef gravy? It’s super versatile! While I love to serve it over toast, you can get creative with the recipe and serve it over biscuits, rice, or your favorite noodles.

Table of Contents

Why you’ll love this chipped beef gravy recipe

Memory Lane in Every Bite: This recipe isn’t just food; it’s a flavorful journey back to those cherished moments of childhood. Each bite is a warm, tasty reminder of Southern family gatherings and lazy weekend mornings at Grandma’s!
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a handful of pantry staples like butter, flour, and dried beef, you can create a dish that’s super rich and satisfying. It’s proof that you don’t need a long ingredient list to whip up something utterly delicious.
Rich and Creamy: With its velvety texture and robust flavor, this gravy hits all the right notes, making it the ultimate comfort food for any time of the year.
Versatile and Adaptable: Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own! Whether you prefer it spread over crispy toast, steaming rice, or fluffy biscuits, the gravy is a perfect pairing for several other foods.
Quick and Easy: If you’ve got 10 minutes, you’ve got enough time to whip this chipped beef gravy on toast. My recipe is straightforward and hassle-free, making it ideal for both busy weekday mornings and laid-back weekend brunches.

Ingredients to make Chipped Beef Gravy On Toast

Unsalted Butter: The base of the gravy! Unsalted butter adds that rich, creamy texture and flavor we all love in chipped beef on toast. Plus, using unsalted allows you to control the salt content in the dish.
All-Purpose Flour: This pantry staple helps thicken the gravy, giving it that hearty consistency that coats your toast just right.
Milk: Room-temperature milk is key for a smooth, lump-free gravy. It brings everything together!
Black Pepper: A dash of black pepper adds a subtle heat and aromatic depth to the gravy, enhancing the flavors of the beef and butter.
Dried Beef: The main event! This beef adds a hearty, savory punch. Chopped into the gravy, it offers a great texture contrast and rich, meaty flavor.
Cayenne Pepper: My secret weapon! Just a pinch gives the gravy a subtle kick, balancing the rich creaminess with a touch of warmth.

How to make Chipped Beef Gravy On Toast

In a small saucepan, melt butter.
Sprinkle flour over butter.
Whisk vigorously, creating a paste.
Stirring constantly, slowly add milk.
Once all the milk is added, add in pepper, beef, and cayenne.
Whisk and continue cooking until gravy is thickened.

Collage of steps to make chipped beef gravy on toast

Tips for making the best creamed chipped beef on toast

Master the Roux: The butter and flour combo, or the roux, is your gravy’s backbone. Cook it just right – not too short, not too long. It should reach a pale golden color to ensure the raw flour taste disappears while keeping your gravy smooth and thick.
Stir with Patience: Consistent and gentle stirring while adding the milk is key to avoid lumps. Patience pays off with a gravy that’s silky-smooth!
Consistency Check: Speaking of milk, to get the perfect gravy texture, it’s best to add the milk slowly. Pour in a little at a time, whisking constantly. This helps you easily control the thickness of your gravy.
Toast Matters: Opt for a thick, hearty bread that can stand up to the weight and moisture of the gravy without turning soggy. A sturdy Texas toast or a dense sourdough is a fabulous choice for any chipped beef on toast recipe.

Popular substitutions & additions

Sausage: Crumbled, cooked breakfast sausage can step in for dried beef, adding a different savory twist.
Cheese: Stir in some shredded cheddar or pepper jack during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy touch that adds a whole new dimension to the creamed chipped beef on toast.
Spices: If cayenne isn’t your favorite, try using smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes to bring warmth and a bit of smokiness to your gravy.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives can be sprinkled on top just before serving for added flavor and a pop of color.
Mushrooms: For a vegetarian spin, replace dried beef with sautéed mushrooms. They offer a meaty texture and soak up all the delicious flavors in the gravy.
Crumbled Bacon: Who can resist bacon? Add crumbled cooked bacon on top just before serving for a salty, smoky crunch!

Metal spoon serving chipped beef gravy on toast

What to serve with this chipped beef on toast recipe

Why stop at toast when you can spoon this gravy over Baked Potatoes? The velvety gravy filling up a steaming potato is the ultimate comfort dish!
Pour the rich, creamy gravy over warm, tender Drop Biscuits for a Southern-style treat that’s hard to beat.
For those mornings when you’re craving an extra layer of comfort, add a side of golden, crispy Hash Browns. The crunchy exterior and soft interior of the hash browns create a satisfying contrast to the creamy gravy and soft toast.

How to store & reheat Chipped Beef Gravy On Toast

Once the Chipped Beef Gravy has cooled to room temperature, transfer it into an airtight container, leaving the toast separate to prevent it from becoming soggy. Store the container in the fridge.

When it’s time to reheat, gently warm the gravy over low heat on the stovetop. You might need to add a splash of milk to bring back its original creamy consistency. For the toast, pop it in the toaster or oven until it’s heated through and crispy again.

How long will Chipped Beef Gravy On Toast last in the fridge?

Your Chipped Beef Gravy will last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. After that period, the gravy might start to lose its creamy consistency and rich taste.

Can I freeze chipped beef on toast?

You can! Just pour the gravy into a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, ensuring you squeeze out any excess air. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat. The toast, however, is best enjoyed fresh and shouldn’t be frozen with the gravy.

Chipped beef gravy on toast garnished with herbs on a white plate with a metal fork

Frequently asked questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Certainly! If you use salted butter, just be cautious with the additional salt you might add to the recipe. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

What type of milk works best for the gravy?
Whole milk is ideal for a rich and creamy texture. However, if you’re looking to cut down on fat, 2% milk can also work well. Avoid using skim milk, as it may result in a less creamy consistency.

Can I use fresh beef instead of dried beef?
While traditional Chipped Beef Gravy On Toast uses dried beef, you can use thinly sliced fresh beef as an alternative. Just make sure to cook the fresh beef thoroughly before incorporating it into the gravy.

Chipped beef gravy on toast sauce in a plan being stirred with a wooden spoon

Whether you’re enjoying it on a quiet morning or sharing it with friends, this Chipped Beef Gravy On Toast is sure to be a hit! With its mix of creamy, savory, and just a hint of spice, it’s a dish that serves comfort and deliciousness in each bite. Besides being a joy to prepare, is also brings with it a wave of nostalgia, taking you back to cozy mornings at home where food was made with love and recipes like this were passed down through generations. So, whether for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, let this recipe warm your kitchen and your heart!

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