S.O.S. Casserole: A Hearty Homestyle Classic
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey back to the heart of home cooking with our S.O.S. Casserole recipe. Short for “Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast,” this beloved dish has been a staple in kitchens across America for generations. With its simple yet satisfying combination of creamy gravy and savory chipped beef, it’s the epitome of comfort food at its finest. Join us as we dive into the details of this timeless classic and rediscover the joy of homestyle cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 5-ounce jars of dried chipped beef
- 1 cup unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Dash of garlic powder
- 5-8 pieces white bread, chopped into 1”-2” cubes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the dried chipped beef to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the melted butter, whisking constantly to form a smooth paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is lightly golden brown.
- Slowly pour in 3 cups of milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Stir in the salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder, mixing until well combined.
- Cook the gravy mixture for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. If the gravy becomes too thick, you can thin it out with additional milk as needed.
- Return the cooked chipped beef to the skillet, stirring to coat it evenly with the gravy.
- Arrange the chopped white bread cubes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the chipped beef and gravy mixture over the bread cubes, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the S.O.S. Casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations
- For a richer flavor, you can toast the bread cubes in the oven before assembling the casserole.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the gravy mixture for a subtle kick of heat.
- Garnish the finished casserole with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version:
- Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to reduce the carb content.
- Substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk to make the gravy keto-friendly.
- Use low-carb bread or keto-friendly bread alternatives for the bread cubes.
Low-Carb Version:
- Use a low-carb thickening agent such as xanthan gum or glucomannan powder instead of flour to thicken the gravy.
- Replace the milk with a combination of chicken or beef broth and heavy cream to reduce the carb content.
- Opt for low-carb bread options or skip the bread altogether and serve the chipped beef and gravy over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh beef instead of dried chipped beef? A: While dried chipped beef is traditional for S.O.S. Casserole, you can certainly use fresh beef if desired. Just be sure to slice it thinly and cook it thoroughly before adding it to the gravy mixture.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply cover it tightly with foil and bake it when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Q: Can I freeze leftover casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover S.O.S. Casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this casserole? A: While S.O.S. Casserole is traditionally served as a meat and gravy dish, you can certainly add vegetables such as peas, carrots, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I use store-bought gravy instead of making it from scratch? A: While homemade gravy is preferred for its flavor and texture, you can use store-bought gravy as a time-saving alternative. Just be sure to choose a gravy that complements the flavors of the dish.
In conclusion, S.O.S. Casserole is a timeless classic that brings together the comforting flavors of creamy gravy and savory chipped beef in a hearty and satisfying dish. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave a taste of home. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a side of vegetables or salad, this casserole is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly with every delicious bite. So, gather your ingredients and embrace the nostalgia of S.O.S. Casserole as you savor the flavors of tradition and homestyle cooking.
