Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast, affectionately known as “Shit on a Shingle” (SOS), is a time-honored breakfast classic that delivers ultimate comfort and robust flavor with surprising simplicity. This guide will walk you through crafting this satisfying dish, from its humble origins to modern variations, ensuring a perfect, hearty meal every time.
Why Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast Remains a Beloved Classic
There’s nothing quite like starting your day with a truly satisfying breakfast. While some mornings call for something light and fresh, like a vibrant fruit smoothie, other days demand a meal that truly “sticks to your ribs,” as my grandmother used to say. This is where Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast shines.
This dish offers a unique blend of flavors and textures: wonderfully salty, thinly sliced dried beef enveloped in a rich, creamy white gravy, all generously piled atop perfectly toasted bread. It’s a warm, savory embrace that satisfies deep hunger and evokes a sense of nostalgic comfort. While we adore the heartiness of fluffy biscuits and savory sausage gravy, that delightful combination often requires a significant investment of time and effort. The beauty of this Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast recipe (or SOS, as it’s widely known) is that it delivers a similar comforting richness in just minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick breakfast, brunch, or even a surprisingly satisfying dinner.
Generations have cherished this dish as a budget-friendly, simple, and incredibly hearty meal. Its enduring popularity, despite its unconventional nickname, speaks volumes about its deliciousness and ease. If you’re looking for a reliable, comforting recipe to add to your rotation, look no further.
The Storied History of “Shit on a Shingle”
Creamed Chipped Beef, or “Shit on a Shingle,” boasts a fascinating history deeply rooted in necessity and resourcefulness. This retro recipe emerged in the early 1900s and became a staple during wartime, particularly World War I and World War II. During periods of low rations and limited resources, the ingredients for this dish – white bread, dried Buddig Beef slices, and a simple white gravy – were all remarkably easy to find and relatively inexpensive. This made it an indispensable, hearty meal for soldiers and families alike.
The infamous nickname “Shit on a Shingle” originated in the military, where soldiers, perhaps unappreciative of its appearance or simply employing typical military humor, coined the blunt moniker. “Shit” referred to the creamed beef mixture, while “shingle” denoted the toast serving as its base. Despite its unappetizing name, the dish quickly transcended its humble military origins to become a beloved comfort food, widely adopted in households across America. It’s a testament to its intrinsic deliciousness and the comforting warmth it provides.
Today, these ingredients remain readily available and affordable at almost any grocery store, making this classic accessible to everyone. The combination of creamy, peppery gravy with salty, tender beef slices creates a wonderful interplay of textures and savory flavors. It’s truly everything you could desire for a substantial breakfast, a quick lunch, or even a comforting dinner. Try preparing it at home, and you’ll quickly understand why this simple, yet profoundly satisfying, chipped beef recipe has captivated palates for over a century.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Creamed Chipped Beef
Crafting the perfect Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast requires just a few simple, high-quality ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in building the dish’s signature flavor and texture:
- Dried Beef Slices: The star of the show! Brands like Buddig Beef are ideal. This thinly sliced, salted, and cured beef provides a distinct savory, salty flavor that defines the dish. It’s softer and more pliable than beef jerky, perfect for cooking into a creamy sauce. You’ll typically find it in small, vacuum-sealed packets near the deli meats or canned goods section of your supermarket.
- Unsalted Butter: Essential for building the roux, which forms the base of our rich gravy. Since dried beef is inherently salty, using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall sodium content and ensures the dish isn’t overpoweringly salty.
- All-Purpose Flour: The thickening agent for our velvety white gravy. It combines with butter to create a roux, which is key to a smooth, lump-free sauce. For those with dietary restrictions, a good quality gluten-free flour blend can be used as a substitute.
- Milk: Whole milk is highly recommended for its richness and creamy texture, contributing significantly to the luxurious feel of the gravy. While lower-fat milk can be used, it may result in a slightly thinner or less decadent sauce.
- Spices: A judicious blend of seasonings elevates the gravy.
- Onion Powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth without the texture of fresh onion.
- Dried Thyme: Contributes an earthy, aromatic note that beautifully complements the beef.
- Cayenne Pepper: Provides a gentle warmth and a hint of kick, balancing the richness without making the dish spicy. Adjust to your preference.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is essential for flavor, added to taste at the end. Remember, avoid adding extra salt, as the dried beef is already very salty.
- Toast: The “shingle” for our creamy beef mixture. Thick-cut white bread, Texas toast, or brioche are excellent choices. Their sturdy texture and ability to absorb the gravy without becoming soggy are paramount. Brioche offers a slight sweetness that can beautifully balance the salty beef.
How to Make Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast (SOS)
This recipe comes together remarkably quickly, making it ideal for busy mornings. Follow these simple steps for a truly comforting meal:
- Prepare the Beef: Begin by taking your dried beef slices, like Buddig Beef, and cutting them into short, manageable strips. Aim for pieces that are approximately ½ inch by 1 inch. This size is perfect for integrating into the gravy and ensures every bite has a good amount of beef.
- Make the Roux: Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely. Once melted and slightly shimmering, quickly whisk in the all-purpose flour. Continue to whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes, creating a smooth roux. The mixture should turn a light golden color and smell slightly nutty. This step is crucial for preventing lumps in your gravy and building a flavorful base.
- Whisk in the Liquids and Spices: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to ensure the gravy remains smooth and lump-free. Once the milk is incorporated, add the onion powder, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper. Continue to simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. If the gravy becomes too thick, simply add an extra splash of milk to loosen it.
- Add the Beef and Toast the Bread: Gently stir the prepared dried beef pieces into the thickened gravy. Allow it to cook for another 1-2 minutes, just long enough to warm the beef through and allow its flavors to meld with the creamy sauce. While the gravy is finishing, toast your slices of white bread in a toaster or under a broiler until golden and crispy.
- Serve Immediately: As soon as the creamed chipped beef reaches your preferred thickness and warmth, place two slices of hot toast on each plate. Generously spoon the rich, creamy chipped beef gravy over the toast, ensuring every inch is covered. Serve immediately and enjoy this wonderfully comforting breakfast!
Get the Complete Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast Recipe Below. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for Creamed Chipped Beef
While Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast is undeniably rich and satisfying on its own, it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a more complete meal or to add contrasting flavors and textures.
- Eggs: For an even heartier breakfast, serve your SOS with scrambled eggs, fried eggs with runny yolks, or perfectly poached eggs. The creamy gravy and salty beef complement the delicate flavor of eggs wonderfully.
- Potatoes: Potatoes are a natural partner for this savory dish. Consider pairing it with crispy baked hash browns, a side of home fries, or even sweet potato cakes for a comforting twist and a touch of sweetness.
- Fresh Fruit: To lighten up the meal and add a refreshing element, a side of fresh fruit such as sliced berries, melon, or orange segments offers a lovely contrast to the richness of the chipped beef. The acidity and sweetness of the fruit provide a welcome palate cleanser.
- Green Vegetables: For a more balanced meal, a small side of steamed asparagus, sautéed spinach, or blanched green beans can add a touch of freshness and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
- Biscuits: Instead of toast, serve the creamy chipped beef over warm, flaky homemade biscuits for an extra layer of Southern comfort.
Creative Creamed Chipped Beef Recipe Variations
While the classic Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast is perfect as is, it’s also a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Chicken & Turkey: For a lighter take, swap the dried beef with shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!) or shredded cooked turkey. You might need to add a pinch more salt to the gravy in this version, as chicken and turkey aren’t as salty as dried beef.
- Gluten-Free: Easily make this dish gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to thicken the gravy. Instead of regular toast, serve it over gluten-free bread, toasted sweet potatoes, roasted cauliflower steaks, or even gluten-free biscuits.
- Low-Carb: To reduce the carbohydrate content, replace the toast entirely. Delicious low-carb alternatives include roasted cauliflower steaks, large grilled portobello mushrooms, or even a bed of sautéed spinach or kale. You’ll still get all the creamy, savory flavor without the bread.
- Sausage Infusion: Add another layer of savory richness by incorporating crumbled and cooked breakfast sausage into the gravy alongside the chipped beef. This creates an even meatier, smokier profile that is incredibly satisfying.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in a handful of shredded sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack cheese into the hot gravy at the very end, just until melted and creamy. This adds a delicious, gooey, and even more indulgent twist to the classic.
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the gravy. A pinch of red pepper flakes could also add a welcome burst of spice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamed Chipped Beef
The dish Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast earned its memorable nickname, “Shit on a Shingle” (SOS), in the military during World War I and World War II. The term “Shit” referred to the appearance of the creamy beef mixture, which some soldiers found unappetizing in its base form, while “shingle” was the military slang for toast, serving as the foundation of the dish. Despite its crude origins, it became a beloved and classic comfort food.
Creamed chipped beef is primarily made from thinly sliced, dried beef (often a product like Buddig Beef) cooked in a rich, creamy white sauce, typically thickened with a roux (butter and flour) and seasoned with milk and spices. My version enhances the flavor with a thoughtful blend of onion powder, dried thyme, and a hint of cayenne pepper.
Chipped beef refers to salted, cured, and dried beef that has been pressed and then thinly sliced. This process gives it a distinct savory and salty flavor profile, making it a powerful ingredient. Because of its inherent saltiness, it’s crucial not to add additional salt to recipes using chipped beef, as it can easily become overly salty.
Any leftover creamed chipped beef should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creamy consistency. Serve it over freshly toasted bread or warm biscuits.
Beyond SOS, chipped beef is surprisingly versatile! A popular alternative is our classic Chipped Beef Dip Recipe, which makes a bold, zesty appetizer or party snack that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
For the best experience, choose a sturdy bread that can absorb the rich gravy without becoming soggy. Thick-cut white bread, Texas toast, or brioche are excellent choices. Biscuits also make a fantastic base for soaking up every drop of the delicious, creamy sauce.
No, dried beef and beef jerky are distinct products. Dried beef, like Buddig Beef, is typically thinly sliced, cured, and salted, maintaining a softer, more pliable texture. It’s often found in vacuum-sealed packets near other deli meats. Beef jerky, on the other hand, is significantly tougher, less moist, and usually has a chewier texture due to a more extensive drying process, often seasoned with various spices for snacking.
You can certainly prepare the creamed chipped beef gravy ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra milk to thin it back to the desired consistency, as it will thicken upon cooling. Prepare the toast fresh just before serving for the best texture.
Looking for More Classic Breakfast Recipes?
If you’ve fallen in love with the comforting simplicity of Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast, you’ll surely enjoy exploring other classic breakfast and brunch dishes that bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. Expand your morning menu with these fantastic recipes:
- The Creamiest Cheese Grits
- Fluffy Overnight Breakfast Casserole
- Hearty Mexican Breakfast Casserole
- Delightful Strawberry Rhubarb Muffins
- Unique Coke Soaked Bacon
- Wholesome Paleo Pancakes
- Simple & Easy Waffle Recipe
- Savory Corned Beef Hash with Horseradish Cream Sauce
- Perfect French Toast Every Time
- Colorful Breakfast Fruit Pizza
- Flavorful Sweet Potato Hash (Potatoes O’Brien)
Discover new favorites and elevate your breakfast game with these tried-and-true recipes!
Print Recipe
Leave a Review »
Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast (Shit on a Shingle)
5
8
13
4 servings
Video
Watch the Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast recipe video here:
Click to play video: Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast
Ingredients
- 8 ounces dried beef slices (such as Buddig Beef)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ – ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 8 slices thick-cut bread, (Texas toast, brioche, or white sandwich bread)
Instructions
-
Cut the dried beef (like Buddig Beef) into strips, then into short segments, approximately ½ x 1 inch in size.
-
Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook the roux, whisking constantly, for 2-3 minutes until it turns a light-gold color.
-
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Then, add the onion powder, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper. Continue to simmer and whisk for 2-3 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken. Stir in the prepared dried beef and cook for another 1-2 minutes to warm the beef through and further thicken the sauce. If the gravy becomes too thick, add a small splash of additional milk.
-
Meanwhile, toast the thick-cut bread slices in a toaster or under a broiler until golden brown. Once the creamed chipped beef gravy is at your preferred consistency, place 2 slices of hot toast on each plate and generously cover with the chipped beef mixture. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
To store leftovers, transfer any remaining creamed chipped beef to an airtight container and refrigerate for 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen if it has thickened, and serve over fresh toast or warm biscuits.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 55g,
Protein: 32g,
Fat: 46g,
Saturated Fat: 21g,
Cholesterol: 76mg,
Sodium: 1680mg,
Potassium: 580mg,
Fiber: 3g,
Sugar: 18g,
Vitamin A: 703IU,
Calcium: 222mg,
Iron: 16mg
Cook It? Love It? Rate It!
YOU can help this recipe RANK on Google – leave a 5-star review so other hungry people can find it. Thank you!