Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most comforting. SOS Hamburger Gravy, also known as “Sh*t on a Shingle,” is a beloved dish with roots in both Depression-era cooking and the U.S. military. Designed to stretch ingredients and feed a crowd, this creamy, savory gravy made with ground beef is a nostalgic favorite that remains popular today.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can serve it over toast for a classic military-style meal, spoon it over fluffy biscuits for a Southern twist, or ladle it onto mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta for a filling dinner. It’s budget-friendly, incredibly easy to make, and comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend breakfast.
Whether you’re looking for a taste of nostalgia or just need a quick and hearty meal, this SOS Hamburger Gravy recipe is a must-try.
Not quite what you are looking for? Try these other great recipes:
The best way to store SOS Hamburger Gravy leftovers depends on how soon you plan to eat it:
Short-Term Storage (1–3 days)
- Refrigerator: Transfer the gravy to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy consistency. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Long-Term Storage (Up to 3 months)
- Freezing: Let the gravy cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag (lay it flat for easy storage).
- Thawing & Reheating:
- Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Heat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently and adding a little milk or broth if needed.
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid freezing if you’ve made the gravy with milk only, as it may separate. If you plan to freeze it, consider using evaporated milk or a combination of milk and broth for better texture after thawing.
PrintSOS Hamburger Gravy
SOS Hamburger Gravy – This hamburger creamed gravy or SOS is wonderful over toast, biscuits, rice, pasta, potatoes and even grits! This easy-to-make dish comes from Depression cooking, where a little meat could be stretched to feed & fill up a lot of people, and from the United States military, for the same reason. It is also super simple and quick!
- Prep Time: :05
- Cook Time: :15
- Total Time: :20
- Yield: 6 1x
- Category: Entree
- Method: Stovetop
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups milk (2% or higher)
- 4 tbsp salted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 12 slices bread, toasted
Instructions
- In a medium sauce pan over medium high heat, brown the ground beef. Season with a little salt and pepper. Drain excess grease and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same sauce pan. Add flour and stir until butter/flour mixture is bubbly. Slowly add milk, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly until thick and bubbly.
- Add meat and stir. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve over toast or potatoes.
Notes
Pro Tip:
For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of garlic powder to the gravy. Want it extra creamy? Stir in a bit of heavy cream or sour cream before serving.