Creamed chipped beef on toast – it’s a timeless comfort food favorite. Also called SOS (creamed beef on toast) it’s a fast, filling breakfast or brunch. But like any dish you may have leftovers. So can you freeze creamed chipped beef?
The answer is yes, you can absolutely freeze leftover creamed chipped beef! With a few tips for proper freezing and thawing, you can enjoy this savory sauce for months after making it
In this article, I’ll explain everything you need to know about freezing creamed chipped beef, from storage methods to reheating and more You’ll learn how to keep this classic meal at peak flavor so it’s ready anytime
A Quick Overview of Creamed Chipped Beef
First, let’s do a quick rundown of what exactly creamed chipped beef is. Also called dried beef, it starts with salted and dried beef that is shaved or shredded into small pieces.
To make the sauce, the chipped beef is sautéed with flour and spices, then simmered in a creamy white gravy made with milk or cream. Sometimes onions or mushrooms are also added.
The smooth, hearty creamed chipped beef sauce is served spooned over toasted bread, biscuits, mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Now let’s look at the best way to save those leftovers.
How to Freeze Creamed Chipped Beef
Freezing creamed chipped beef is simple:
- Allow the creamed chipped beef to cool completely after cooking.
- Transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Remove as much air as possible and seal the containers tightly.
- Label with the contents and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
I like freezing creamed chipped beef in meal-sized portions for quick and easy thawed meals later on. Make sure containers are airtight to prevent freezer burn.
For best quality, store at 0°F or below – use the coldest sections of your freezer.
Tips for Freezing Success
Follow these handy tips for the highest quality frozen creamed chipped beef every time:
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Chill first: Cool creamed chipped beef completely before freezing for food safety.
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Portion properly: Freeze in recipe-ready amounts like 1-2 cups to avoid waste.
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Wrap airtight: Use heavy duty foil, plastic wrap, or freezer bags. Eliminate air exposure.
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Use freezer-safe materials: Choose containers designed specifically for the freezer to prevent cracking.
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Label everything: Mark contents, amount, and freeze date on each package.
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Know your freezer: Set to -0°F or below. Use the coldest areas like bottom shelves.
Following proper freezing techniques prevents freezer burn and maintains quality over months of storage.
Thawing Creamed Chipped Beef for Later Use
When ready to eat, thaw frozen creamed chipped beef safely using these methods:
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Refrigerator thawing: Place container in the fridge overnight. Takes 12-24 hours to thaw.
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Cold water bath: Submerge sealed container in cold water, changing water every 30 minutes. Takes 1-2 hours.
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Microwave thawing: Defrost in 30 second bursts on medium power, stirring between. Takes about 5 minutes.
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Cook without thawing: Add frozen creamed chipped beef directly to recipes like gravy or soup. Just increase cook times.
For best flavor and texture, thaw in the refrigerator. Never leave creamed chipped beef to thaw at room temp.
Once thawed, use within 3-5 days. Do not refreeze thawed creamed chipped beef.
Reheating and Using Thawed Creamed Chipped Beef
To serve thawed creamed chipped beef, you’ll need to reheat it first. Here are some safe options:
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Stovetop: Gently simmer over medium-low, stirring constantly until heated through. Add milk or cream if too thick.
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Microwave: Heat in 30 second intervals until hot, stirring between. Use medium-low power to prevent splattering.
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Oven: Transfer to a baking dish, cover, and bake at 350°F until bubbly. Stir well before serving.
Avoid high heat when reheating to prevent curdling or separating. Stir frequently for even heating.
Once reheated, enjoy your thawed creamed chipped beef on biscuits, toast, potatoes, rice, pasta, and more! The uses are endless.
Frequently Asked Questions
Freezing creamed gravy often raises questions for beginners. Here are some common queries:
How long does fresh creamed chipped beef last? About 3-4 days in the fridge stored in an airtight container.
Can you freeze the toast/biscuits too? It’s best to freeze them separately to prevent sogginess.
What if my creamed chipped beef has freezer burn? It’s still safe to eat, but the texture may be dry in spots. Just trim off any burnt parts.
Can I make substitutions when reheating? Yes, feel free to add milk, cream, broth, etc. to adjust the consistency.
Is thawed creamed chipped beef safe to eat? Yes, if thawed properly in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other freezing questions! Proper handling is key.
Enjoy This Classic Anytime
As you can see, freezing creamed chipped beef is totally possible for enjoying this yummy comfort food later on. With the right freezing, storage, and thawing methods, it will keep beautifully for 2-3 months.
Be sure to portion, wrap airtight, and freeze promptly after cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or in the oven or microwave.
From biscuits and toast to eggs, potatoes, and more, the uses for thawed creamed chipped beef are endless! With freezer storage, you can savor the rich, creamy flavor anytime.