where do you find chipped beef in the grocery store

Where to Find Chipped Beef in the Grocery Store

If you’re looking to make creamed chipped beef chipped beef dip or other classic recipes that call for chipped beef, you may be wondering exactly where to find this unique ingredient in the grocery store. Also known as dried beef, chipped beef can be tricky to locate since it’s not a common everyday ingredient for most shoppers.

In this article, I’ll share the insider scoop on where to find chipped beef so your next recipe won’t be delayed by an unsuccessful grocery store search. After reading, you’ll be an expert on locating chipped beef and can impress your family with delicious recipes featuring this tasty cured and dried meat.

What Is Chipped Beef?

First, let’s cover the basics. Chipped beef, sometimes called dried beef, is made from salted and dried beef that is sliced very thinly. It has a concentrated savory, smoky flavor from the curing process. The texture is dense and chewy when raw, but becomes tender when cooked.

Some other names for chipped beef include pressed beef, spiced beef, and even chip beef. But you’ll typically see it labeled as “chipped beef” on packaging. Common brands include Armour, Knauss, and Hereford.

Chipped beef can be used in a variety of dishes like the classic S.O.S. (creamed chipped beef on toast), as well as dips, omelets, pasta dishes, and more. Its versatility makes chipped beef a handy ingredient to have on hand.

Where to Find Chipped Beef in the Grocery Store

Now that you know exactly what chipped beef is, let’s get to the good stuff: where to find it! Here are the two key sections to locate chipped beef:

Canned Meat Aisle
The most obvious location is in the canned meat section along with other shelf-stable cured meats like deviled ham, corned beef, and Vienna sausages. Look for jars, cans, or pouches labeled “chipped beef” or “dried beef.” Name brands like Armour are common.

Deli Section/Deli Counter
Many grocery stores also carry chipped beef in the packaged deli meat section or sold freshly sliced at the deli counter. Check near the pre-packaged sliced meats like turkey, roast beef, ham, etc. The deli staff can also slice chipped beef to order.

In addition to the main canned meat and deli sections, you may also have luck finding chipped beef near the hot dogs, bacon, jerky, and other cured meats. Stores organize differently, so scan all areas with packaged meat products if you can’t locate it right away.

I recommend calling your grocery store ahead of time to check if they carry chipped beef and confirm the exact location. The customer service desk can point you in the right direction or transfer your call to the deli manager. This saves you time from having to search aisle by aisle.

What Does Chipped Beef Look Like?

When browsing the shelves, keep an eye out for thin slices of dried cured beef. It may come in bags or tubs rather than cans. The color varies from deep brown to more of a pinkish-red depending on the brand. Don’t expect it to look raw like fresh ground beef.

Chipped beef has a distinct dense and chewy appearance, while still being able to slice thinly. Whole slabs may look shiny or glazed from the curing and drying process. The packaging will always be clearly labeled as “chipped beef” or “dried beef.”

How Much Does Chipped Beef Cost?

Pricing for chipped beef can vary greatly depending on the amount and type you buy. At general grocery stores, expect to pay:

• $3 to $5 for a 5 to 8 ounce pouch

• $5 to $7 for a 12 to 16 ounce tub

• $1.50 to $2.50 per pound when sliced fresh at the deli counter

For best value, watch for chipped beef in the weekly meat sales circular or look for coupons at the register. Buying larger bulk quantities tends to be more economical overall.

Storing Chipped Beef

Keep your chipped beef fresh with proper storage methods:

• Store unopened chipped beef in a cool, dry pantry away from direct light.

• Once opened, transfer any leftover chipped beef to a sealed container or bag.

• Refrigerate opened packages for 3 to 4 weeks.

• Frozen chipped beef keeps 6 months in freezer bags with excess air removed.

• Look for any signs of mold and discard if found.

Now Go Enjoy Delicious Chipped Beef Recipes!

Armed with the inside scoop on where to find chipped beef in grocery stores, you can grab this unique ingredient for your next recipe. Try serving up chipped beef hashbrown casserole, creamy chipped beef sandwiches, chipped beef quesadillas, and more. The savory flavor takes recipes to the next level.

Here are a few quick tips for cooking with chipped beef:

• Sauté in butter briefly to soften the texture.

• Add cream and seasonings for easy creamed chipped beef.

• Combine with cheese, beans, veggies for stuffed peppers or tacos.

• Use small amounts as a smoky seasoning similar to bacon.