Ingredients

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
• 1 (2.5 oz) jar or package dried chipped beef, chopped
• Salt & black pepper to taste (go easy—beef is salty!)
• 4 slices hearty bread (sourdough, Texas toast, or whole wheat), toasted
• Optional: pinch of cayenne or dash of Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour; cook 1–2 minutes until bubbly and golden (this is your roux).
Gradually whisk in milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and smooth (~3–5 min).
Stir in chopped chipped beef. Simmer gently 2–3 minutes until heated through and flavors meld. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
Season lightly with pepper (taste first—chipped beef is already salty!). Add cayenne or Worcestershire if desired.
Spoon generously over warm, toasted bread. Serve immediately.