Pioneer Woman Creamed Chipped Beef Recipe

There’s something about a plate of creamy chipped beef that takes you back (thank you, Pioneer Woman!).

My first trick is to keep the beef from being too salty, I give it a quick soak in warm water before adding it to the sauce.

A good roux is suuuper important, so let that butter and flour cook until it smells toasty before pouring in the milk.

Thick Texas toast is my go-to for serving, but it also works well over baked potatoes or even rice.

For extra depth, a small dash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of cayenne adds just the right touch.

How to Make Pioneer Woman Creamed Chipped Beef

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp Butter
• 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
• 2 cups Milk (warm)
• 8 oz. Dried Beef
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat.

Step 2:

Add the flour and whisk until the mixture is smooth to create a roux.

Step 3:

Gradually pour in the warm milk, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.

Step 4:

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until it thickens.

Step 5:

Stir in the chopped dried beef and cayenne pepper, allowing the beef to heat through.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Freshly Ground Black Pepper

Freshly ground black pepper adds a much richer flavor than pre-ground pepper, so give it a try for more zest.

Warm the Milk

Warming the milk before adding it to the roux can help it incorporate more smoothly and prevent clumping.

Substitute Ingredients

If you don’t have dried beef, thinly sliced deli roast beef or corned beef can work as substitutes without changing the taste too much.

Adjust the Thickness

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer while stirring, but be careful not to let it stick to the bottom.

Serve Over Different Bases

While toast is classic, you can also serve it over rice or noodles to give a little twist to the traditional presentation.

What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Creamed Chipped Beef

Buttermilk Biscuits

You can’t go wrong with serving buttermilk biscuits alongside creamed chipped beef.

The buttery, flaky texture of the biscuits perfectly complements the creamy richness of the beef gravy.

Make sure to bake them golden brown, so they are ready to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Green Beans Almondine

If you’re looking to add a touch of freshness to your meal, green beans almondine is a great choice.

The lightly sautéed beans with crunchy toasted almonds offer a contrasting texture to the smooth creaminess of the chipped beef.

The nutty flavor of the almonds will add an interesting element to your dish.

Herb Lemon Rice

You might not think of rice immediately, but herb lemon rice can work beautifully.

The zesty lemon flavor and fragrant herbs refresh the palate, balancing the richness of the beef gravy.

This side dish offers a unique twist that will surprise and please without a doubt.

Ricotta Gnocchi

For something a little different, try serving ricotta gnocchi.

These soft, pillowy dumplings are perfect for scooping up your creamy chipped beef.

Their mild flavor provides a soft counterpoint to the savory beef, creating a harmonious dish.

Sweet Cornbread

Sweet cornbread can be another unexpected, tasty option to pair with your meal.

This side dish will add a comforting note that works beautifully with the savory chipped beef.

Variations and Substitutions

Dried Beef Alternatives

You might not always have dried beef in your kitchen.

Replace it with thinly sliced deli roast beef or cooked bacon for a similar taste.

Corned beef could add a different, but equally tasty, twist.

Butter and Flour Substitutes

If you’re looking to make it dairy-free, swap out unsalted butter for margarine or a plant-based alternative.

For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour.

These substitutions won’t compromise flavor!

Milk Options

Using whole milk might be the common choice, but don’t worry if you need an alternative.

You can choose from skim milk or lactose-free milk.

They will provide the creamy base without the extra dairy content.

Feel free to get creative with different flavors and textures!

How to Store Leftover Pioneer Woman Creamed Chipped Beef

Packaging Leftovers

You should cool the creamed chipped beef completely before popping it into the fridge.

Using airtight containers helps to maintain freshness and flavor.

Removing as much air as possible from the containers prevents the gravy from forming a skin.

Refrigerator Storage

You can store the leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.

Make sure that the fridge temperature is kept at or below 40°F.

Placing the container in the coldest part of your fridge ensures the beef stays fresh for longer.

Freezing Options

Freezing is a fantastic option if you plan to store your creamed chipped beef beyond a few days.

Transfer the dish into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a bit of space for expansion.

Removing excess air can prevent freezer burn and keep the meal tasting great.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Beef

You want to gently heat the beef to avoid tough, chewy meat.

I find it’s best to only cook it until just heated through.

This makes sure the beef stays tender and enjoyable.

Ignoring Lumps in the Gravy

You need to stir continuously while adding the milk to prevent lumps.

Patience is key when pouring the milk.

Gradually add it while stirring, and you’ll achieve that perfect creamy consistency.

Skimping on Seasoning

Not seasoning enough can lead to blandness, making the dish less enjoyable.

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a generous amount of black pepper for a subtle kick.

Taste as you go, and adjust according to your preference to make every bite flavorful.