Chipped Beef & Dumplings with Potatoes – Easy Recipe!

If you love hearty, old-fashioned meals, you’re in for a treat! This chipped beef flour dumplings potatoes recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying flavors. Picture soft dumplings swimming in a rich, velvety sauce, paired with buttery potatoes—pure comfort on a plate! Ready to dig in?

Ingredients & Substitutions

A delicious dish starts with the right ingredients! This chipped beef flour dumplings potatoes recipe brings together simple yet flavorful components to create a rich, comforting meal. Below, we’ll cover the must-have ingredients, possible substitutions, and ways to tweak the recipe to fit different diets and preferences.

Essential Ingredients for Chipped Beef & Dumplings

For a classic, hearty flavor, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

• Chipped beef – This dried, salted beef is the star of the dish. It adds a deep, savory taste that pairs perfectly with creamy sauces. Look for it in jars or vacuum-sealed packs in the deli or canned meat section.
• Flour dumplings – Soft, pillowy dumplings soak up the creamy sauce, adding a satisfying texture. They’re made from flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and milk, creating a tender bite.
• Potatoes – Starchy Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best, as they hold their shape while becoming wonderfully tender.
• Butter and flour – These form the base of the roux, which thickens the sauce and gives it a smooth, velvety texture.
• Milk or cream – Whole milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream makes the sauce rich and indulgent.
• Seasonings – A pinch of black pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of mustard powder enhance the dish’s flavor.

Alternative Ingredients & Dietary Adjustments

Need to adjust the recipe to fit your diet? No problem! Here are some swaps:

• Gluten-free dumplings – Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to keep the texture soft while avoiding gluten.
• Low-sodium version – Since chipped beef is naturally salty, rinse it under warm water before cooking to remove excess salt. Use unsalted butter and low-sodium broth to further control the salt level.
• Dairy-free option – Swap butter for plant-based margarine and use oat or almond milk instead of dairy. The sauce may be slightly thinner, so add a teaspoon of cornstarch to help thicken it.
• Extra protein – Love a heartier dish? Stir in cooked bacon bits or shredded chicken for even more flavor.

Where to Buy the Best Chipped Beef

Since chipped beef isn’t always available in every grocery store, here’s where to look:

• Local grocery stores – Check the deli section or canned meat aisle.
• Butcher shops – Some specialty butchers carry high-quality dried beef.
• Online retailers – Stores like Amazon or gourmet food shops often sell jarred chipped beef with different flavor variations.

If you can’t find chipped beef, thinly sliced dried pastrami or corned beef makes a great substitute!

Additional Flavors & Enhancements

Want to make this dish even more special? Try these flavorful add-ins:

• Cheesy upgrade – Stir in grated sharp cheddar or Parmesan for extra richness.
• Spicy twist – A dash of paprika or cayenne pepper adds a little heat.
• Fresh herbs – Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh finish.
• Tangy kick – A splash of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard enhances the umami flavors.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making this chipped beef flour dumplings potatoes recipe is easier than you think! With a few simple steps, you’ll create a rich, creamy sauce, tender dumplings, and perfectly cooked potatoes. Follow these detailed instructions for the best results.

Preparing the Chipped Beef

Before you start, it’s important to reduce the saltiness of chipped beef, as it’s often quite salty. Here’s what to do:

1. Rinse the beef – Place the chipped beef in a colander and rinse it under warm water for about 30 seconds to remove excess salt.
2. Pat dry and slice – Use a paper towel to blot dry, then slice into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
3. Sauté for flavor – Heat a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the beef and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This enhances the savory taste.

Making the Creamy Sauce

The creamy white sauce is what brings everything together in this dish! Follow these steps for a smooth, velvety texture:

1. Make a roux – In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until golden.
2. Add the milk – Slowly pour in 2 cups of warm milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
3. Season to taste – Stir in a pinch of black pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder for extra depth.
4. Simmer until thickened – Let the sauce cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.

Pro Tip: Want to add an extra layer of flavor? Mix in ½ cup of shredded cheddar for a cheesy twist!

Cooking the Flour Dumplings

Dumplings add a soft, pillowy texture to this dish, making it even more satisfying. Here’s how to make them:

1. Prepare the dough – In a bowl, mix 1 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Cut in 1 tablespoon of butter until crumbly.
2. Add the liquid – Pour in ½ cup of milk and stir until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix!
3. Shape and drop – Scoop small portions (about 1 tablespoon each) and drop them directly into the simmering sauce.
4. Cover and steam – Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the dumplings steam for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.

Bringing It All Together with Potatoes

Now that your chipped beef and dumplings are ready, it’s time to prepare the potatoes:

1. Peel and chop – Use Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeling them if desired, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
2. Boil until tender – Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water and boil for 10-12 minutes until fork-tender.
3. Drain and mix – Drain the potatoes and gently stir them into the creamy chipped beef and dumplings mixture.
4. Final seasoning – Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or fresh herbs like parsley for a finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips

Now that your chipped beef flour dumplings potatoes recipe is ready, it’s time to serve it in the best possible way! Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or saving leftovers for later, the right approach will enhance the flavor and texture. Below, we’ll cover serving ideas, side dishes, reheating tips, and how to store leftovers properly.

Best Ways to Serve Chipped Beef & Dumplings

This dish is rich, creamy, and comforting, making it a standout meal on its own. However, pairing it with the right sides can balance the flavors and add variety to your plate. Here are some great serving ideas:

• Classic presentation – Serve it in a deep bowl, allowing the creamy sauce to coat the dumplings and potatoes perfectly. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
• With a crunchy contrast – A simple side salad with vinaigrette or a serving of steamed green beans adds freshness and balances the richness.
• For a Southern twist – Pair with buttered cornbread or warm biscuits to soak up every bit of the flavorful sauce.
• Lighter option – If you want to cut the heaviness, serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed spinach, or steamed asparagus.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck! This dish stores well and can be enjoyed later with just a few simple steps.

How to Store Leftovers:

1. Cool before storing – Let the dish cool to room temperature before placing it in a container.
2. Use airtight containers – Store in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
3. Refrigerate for up to 3 days – Keep it in the fridge for up to 72 hours for the best taste.
4. Freeze for longer storage – If you need to keep it longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat:

• Stovetop method (best for texture): Heat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through.
• Microwave option (quick but needs care): Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Oven method (best for large batches): Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C), place leftovers in an oven-safe dish, and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes until warm.

Preventing Texture Changes in Leftovers

While this dish tastes amazing fresh, it can change texture after refrigeration. Here’s how to maintain its best quality:

• Dumplings can get dense – To keep them soft, add a few tablespoons of broth or milk when reheating.
• Sauce may thicken too much – If the sauce looks too thick, stir in a bit of warm milk or water before reheating.
• Potatoes can absorb liquid – If they become dry, mash them slightly and mix with extra sauce for a smoother texture.

Making This Dish Ahead of Time

Want to make your chipped beef flour dumplings potatoes recipe ahead for busy nights? Here’s how you can prepare it in advance without losing freshness:

1. Cook the chipped beef and sauce separately – The sauce thickens over time, so making it ahead and storing it separately prevents it from becoming too thick.
2. Prep dumpling dough but don’t cook it yet – You can mix the dough a few hours before cooking, but store it covered in the fridge until ready to drop into the sauce.
3. Partially cook potatoes – If you want to cut down on cooking time, boil the potatoes halfway, then drain and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
4. Combine and finish cooking when ready – Reheat the sauce, bring it to a simmer, drop in the dumplings, and add the potatoes just before serving.

Final Thoughts on Serving & Storing This Classic Dish

This chipped beef flour dumplings potatoes recipe is a hearty, old-fashioned favorite that can be easily adjusted to fit any meal plan. Whether you’re serving it fresh, making it ahead, or reheating leftovers, following these tips ensures a delicious, satisfying meal every time.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about making the perfect chipped beef flour dumplings potatoes recipe.

How do you make chipped beef less salty?

Chipped beef is naturally salty due to the curing process, but you can easily adjust its saltiness. The best way is to rinse it under warm water for 30 seconds before cooking. For an even milder taste, soak it in a bowl of warm water for 5-10 minutes, then pat it dry before using. If you’re still concerned about salt levels, pair it with low-sodium broth or unsalted butter in the recipe.

Can I make this recipe without dairy?

Yes! You can make a dairy-free version of this chipped beef flour dumplings potatoes recipe by swapping out a few ingredients:

• Butter → Use plant-based margarine or olive oil.
• Milk → Try unsweetened oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk for a creamy texture.
• Heavy cream → Use canned coconut cream or cashew cream for a rich alternative.

Just keep in mind that non-dairy substitutes may slightly alter the flavor, but they’ll still result in a delicious, creamy dish.

Can I freeze chipped beef and dumplings?

Yes, but with some precautions! Here’s how to freeze and reheat this dish properly:

• Freeze the sauce separately – The creamy chipped beef sauce freezes well in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Dumplings don’t freeze well – They tend to get dense when thawed, so it’s best to make them fresh when reheating.
• Reheating tips – Thaw the sauce overnight in the fridge, then reheat it slowly on the stovetop. Add fresh dumplings and potatoes when serving for the best texture.

What are the best side dishes to serve with this recipe?

This dish is rich and creamy, so pairing it with a lighter side can balance the flavors. Some great options include:

• Steamed or roasted vegetables – Green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add freshness.
• Simple salads – A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness.
• Crusty bread or biscuits – Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious sauce.
• Pickled vegetables – If you like a tangy contrast, serve with pickles or sauerkraut.

Conclusion

This chipped beef flour dumplings potatoes recipe is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together tender dumplings, creamy chipped beef sauce, and hearty potatoes in one satisfying dish. Whether you’re making it fresh, saving leftovers, or tweaking it to fit your dietary needs, this meal is easy to customize and always delicious. Try it for your next cozy family dinner, and don’t forget to experiment with flavors and sides to make it your own!