Classic Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast (S.O.S.)
Make this nostalgic comfort food quickly. This recipe delivers tender dried beef in a rich, creamy white gravy served over crispy toast. It is a simple, satisfying meal ready in minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
- Total Time: 20 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup water
- 4 ounces dried chipped beef, shredded or chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt, if needed
- 8 slices white bread, toasted
Instructions
- Toast the bread slices until golden brown and set them aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Stir in the water, pepper, and the chopped chipped beef. Heat through for about 2 minutes. Do not boil after adding the beef.
- Taste the sauce and add a pinch of salt only if necessary, as the dried beef is usually salty.
- Spoon the creamed chipped beef mixture generously over the prepared toast slices. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use half-and-half instead of milk.
- If you prefer a thinner gravy, add more water or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- This dish is often called ‘Shit on a Shingle’ or ‘S.O.S.’ in military tradition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices with topping
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 950
- Fat: 25
- Saturated Fat: 15
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 25
- Cholesterol: 80