This classic comfort food can also be made with browned and drained ground beef for a hearty variation. Enjoy it with a cold beer for a satisfying meal!

**Ingredients:**

- 1 jar of dried beef slices, rinsed well and chopped

- 4 tbsp butter

- 4 tbsp flour

- Pinch of cayenne pepper

- 2 cups milk

- Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste

- Bread, toasted

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Beef:**

   - Rinse the slices of dried beef thoroughly to remove excess salt. Pat dry with a paper towel.

   - Chop the beef into small bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

2. **Make the Roux:**

   - In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

   - Add the flour and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the melted butter. Whisk until well combined and the mixture has cooked through, about 45 seconds.

3. **Add the Milk:**

   - Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.

   - Continue to whisk until all the milk has been added and the mixture is smooth.

4. **Combine and Thicken:**

   - Add the chopped dried beef to the saucepan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thickened, about a few minutes.

   - Taste the sauce and season with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper as needed.

5. **Serve:**

   - Spoon the creamed chipped beef over toasted bread slices.

   - Serve immediately.

**Optional Variation with Ground Beef:**

   - Substitute the dried beef with 3/4 pound of ground beef.

   - Brown and drain the ground beef before adding it to the sauce.

**Enjoy!**

This dish is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It's a nostalgic favorite that's sure to bring comfort and warmth to your table.