Chipped beef on toast is a classic dish that features chipped beef in a cream sauce served over toast. The dish is commonly served by the U.S. military, known as SOS or stew on a shingle. If you'd like to try this easy treat, read on as this step-by-step guide will explain how to make chipped beef on toast including the ingredients, preparation method and common variations.

The dish, which is often served as a main course or snack, is both quick and easy to prepare, as well as inexpensive, making it a popular choice for weekday dinners. The ingredients, flour, milk, butter, dried beef and bread are often kept on hand, making it a convenient dish to whip together at the last minute.

While dried beef is generally used, ground beef can also be used instead. Additionally, the dish can be made more flavorful by adding a variety of spices like pepper, cayenne pepper, parsley and/or Worcestershire sauce.

Serving the hot and creamy beef is typically done over toast, while English muffins, biscuits or hash browns can be used as well. The prepared dish can also be refrigerated to heat and serve at a later time.

• 8 oz. dried beef
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 tbsp. flour
• 2 cups milk
• Dash pepper
• Buttered toast

1. Cut or tear the beef into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add in the beef and cook for about one minute or until the beef starts to curl.
4. Stir in the flour to create a roux. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent burns and lumps.
5. Stir in the milk and cook until the mixture slightly thickens.
6. Spoon the mixture over buttered toast on serving plates.
7. Serve and enjoy!

1. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for added spice.
2. For added volume, stir in mushrooms sauteed in butter.
3. Cheese, green onions and/or sliced pimentos can also be added in.