Creamed Chipped Beef

About This RecipeCreamed chipped beef is a classic American dish consisting of dried, salted beef in a creamy white sauce, typically served over toast. It has historical roots as a simple, economical meal and was widely used in military rations.Why You’ll Love This RecipeThis recipe provides a method for creating a savory and comforting dish with a straightforward preparation process. It uses a limited number of common ingredients and can be prepared quickly for a hearty meal.Ingredients4 tablespoons unsalted butter1/4 cup all-purpose flour3 cups whole milk, warmed1/4 teaspoon black pepper1 (8-ounce) jar dried beef, choppedToast, biscuits, or hash browns for servingStep by Step InstructionsRemove the dried beef from the jar. If desired, rinse the beef briefly under cool water to reduce saltiness. Pat dry and chop into small pieces.In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for about one minute to form a roux. Do not let it brown.Gradually pour in the warmed milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes.Add the black pepper and the chopped dried beef to the white sauce. Stir to combine and heat through for another 2-3 minutes.Serve immediately over slices of toast, biscuits, or hash browns.FAQWhat is dried beef?Dried beef is beef that has been salted and dried to preserve it. It is typically sold in thin slices in jars or plastic packages and is sometimes referred to as chipped beef.Can I use a different type of milk?Whole milk is recommended for the creamiest sauce, but 2% milk can be used. The sauce may be less rich.Is rinsing the beef necessary?Rinsing is a common step to remove some of the excess salt from the preservation process, but it is optional based on personal taste preference for saltiness.You Must KnowThe key to a smooth sauce is to add the milk gradually while whisking constantly. The dried beef is already cooked and salted, so the dish typically does not require additional salt.Storage TipsLeftover creamed chipped beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a small amount of milk if the sauce has thickened too much. It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.