Joe's Special is a classic breakfast dish originating from San Francisco, often found at local diners. It’s a hearty and flavorful scramble that combines eggs, spinach, beef, and mushrooms into a protein-packed, satisfying meal. You can enjoy it as a filling breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
Here’s how to make Joe's Special (Scrambled Eggs with Spinach, Beef, and Mushrooms):
Joe's Special (Scrambled Eggs with Spinach, Beef, and Mushrooms) Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1/2 pound ground beef (you can substitute with ground turkey or sausage for variation)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or your favorite variety)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added richness)
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish—parsley, chives, or thyme)
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, or until it's browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat, if necessary, and remove the beef from the skillet. Set it aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and garlic, and cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and tender.
3. Add the spinach:
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until it wilts down and softens. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this stage.
4. Scramble the eggs:
- While the spinach is cooking, crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them lightly with a fork. Season with a little salt and pepper.
- Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet to create space for the eggs.
- Pour the beaten eggs into the skillet and scramble them gently with a spatula. As the eggs begin to set, stir them into the vegetable mixture.
- Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are cooked through but still soft and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Combine and serve:
- Once the eggs are scrambled and fully mixed with the vegetables and beef, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
Tips:
- Customize the protein: While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, sausage, or even leftover cooked chicken for a different twist.
- Cheese: In addition to Parmesan, you could add shredded cheddar, feta, or goat cheese for a creamier texture and more flavor.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
- Serving ideas: Joe’s Special can be served on its own or with a side of toast, avocado, or roasted potatoes for a more filling meal.
Joe's Special is a delicious and hearty scrambled egg dish packed with protein and vegetables. It’s a great way to start the day or enjoy a flavorful brunch or dinner!