Hey guys! Craving some good old-fashioned comfort food? Then you've gotta try this Esskay chipped beef gravy recipe. It’s super easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for serving over toast, biscuits, or even mashed potatoes. Let's dive right in!

What is Esskay Chipped Beef Gravy?

Esskay chipped beef gravy, often called creamed chipped beef, is a classic dish that features thinly sliced, salted, and dried beef (chipped beef) in a creamy, savory gravy. The Esskay brand was particularly well-known, hence the name, but you can use any brand of chipped beef you prefer. The gravy is typically made with a base of butter, flour, and milk, seasoned to perfection. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly, making it a staple in many households. The combination of the salty beef and the rich, creamy gravy creates a comforting and satisfying meal that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a hearty lunch, or a simple dinner, Esskay chipped beef gravy is a fantastic choice. Its versatility allows it to be served with a variety of sides, such as toast, biscuits, English muffins, or even cornbread, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Plus, it’s a great way to use pantry staples to create something truly special.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make this classic recipe, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s the list:

• 1 package (usually around 2.5 ounces) of Esskay chipped beef, or any brand you like
• 4 tablespoons of butter
• 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 3 cups of milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: A dash of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor

Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. The quality of your ingredients can impact the final taste, so opt for good-quality butter and fresh milk if possible. Don’t worry too much about the brand of chipped beef, as most brands will work just fine. If you’re watching your sodium intake, you might want to rinse the chipped beef before using it to remove some of the excess salt. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to customize the flavor to your liking. Some people like to add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor, while others prefer a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s easy to adapt to your personal preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make the best Esskay chipped beef gravy you’ve ever tasted. This recipe is so straightforward that even beginner cooks can nail it. Trust me, you've got this!

1. Prepare the Chipped Beef: If the chipped beef slices are large, you might want to tear them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This makes them easier to eat in the gravy. Some people also like to rinse the beef under cold water to reduce some of the saltiness. If you're concerned about sodium, this is a good step to take.
2. Make the Roux: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the flour. Whisk constantly to create a smooth paste, known as a roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously. This step is crucial because it gets rid of the raw flour taste and helps thicken the gravy. Be careful not to burn the roux, as this will give the gravy a bitter flavor. The roux should be a light golden color.
3. Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture starts to thicken. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If you do get lumps, don't panic! You can use an immersion blender to smooth them out, or strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve.
4. Incorporate the Chipped Beef: Once the gravy has thickened, add the chipped beef to the skillet. Stir well to ensure the beef is evenly distributed throughout the gravy. Reduce the heat to low and let the gravy simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the beef to soften slightly.
5. Season to Taste: Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful with the salt, as the chipped beef is already quite salty. If you're using garlic powder or onion powder, add it now. Give the gravy a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can't take it away, so start with a small amount and work your way up.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Esskay chipped beef gravy hot over toast, biscuits, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!

Tips for the Best Chipped Beef Gravy

Want to make sure your chipped beef gravy is absolutely perfect? Here are a few extra tips to keep in mind. These little tricks can elevate your dish from good to absolutely amazing!

• Control the Salt: Chipped beef can be quite salty, so taste the gravy before adding any extra salt. You might find that you don't need any at all. Rinsing the beef beforehand can also help reduce the saltiness.
• Whisk, Whisk, Whisk: When adding the milk to the roux, whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming. This is the key to a smooth and creamy gravy. If lumps do form, use an immersion blender or strain the gravy.
• Low and Slow: Simmer the gravy over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together. This also prevents the gravy from scorching or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
• Adjust the Thickness: If the gravy is too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out. If it's too thin, continue simmering it until it reaches your desired consistency. A little cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) can also help thicken the gravy quickly.
• Add Some Spice: For a little extra flavor, try adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy. This adds a nice kick that complements the richness of the dish.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. This not only makes the dish look more appealing but also adds a bright, herbaceous flavor.

Variations and Add-ins

The basic recipe for Esskay chipped beef gravy is fantastic, but don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own personal touch. Here are a few variations and add-ins to try:

• Mushrooms: Sauté some sliced mushrooms in butter before making the roux. This adds a savory, earthy flavor to the gravy.
• Onions: Dice a small onion and sauté it in butter until softened before making the roux. This adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Bacon: Cook some bacon until crispy, then crumble it and add it to the gravy. The smoky flavor of the bacon pairs perfectly with the salty beef.
• Cheese: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese or cream cheese for an extra creamy and cheesy gravy. This is especially delicious served over biscuits.
• Peas: Add some frozen peas to the gravy during the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Hard-boiled Eggs: Chop up some hard-boiled eggs and stir them into the gravy for added protein and richness. This is a classic addition that many people love.

Serving Suggestions

Esskay chipped beef gravy is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some popular serving suggestions to get you started:

• Toast: This is the most classic way to serve chipped beef gravy. Toast slices of bread and spoon the gravy over the top. For an extra treat, butter the toast before adding the gravy.
• Biscuits: Split open warm, fluffy biscuits and spoon the gravy over them. This is a hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
• Mashed Potatoes: Serve the gravy over creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and filling meal. This is especially delicious on a cold day.
• English Muffins: Toast English muffins and top them with the gravy. This is a quick and easy breakfast option that’s perfect for busy mornings.
• Cornbread: Serve the gravy over slices of warm cornbread for a delicious and comforting Southern-inspired meal.
• Noodles: Toss cooked noodles with the gravy for a simple and satisfying dinner. This is a great way to use up leftover noodles.

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftover chipped beef gravy, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To store, let the gravy cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to reheat, simply warm it up in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a little milk to thin it out if it has thickened too much. Avoid freezing the gravy, as the texture can change and become grainy when thawed.

Conclusion

So there you have it! A simple and delicious Esskay chipped beef gravy recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting weekend breakfast, this recipe is a winner. Give it a try and let me know what you think! Enjoy, guys!