Little Joes
Little Joes is a hearty, savory dish combining ground beef, spinach, and eggs with a hint of Tabasco, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large skillet; add chopped onion and cook over medium heat until soft.
- Add the ground beef, mixing with the onion and breaking it up into small bits with a fork.
- Cook until the redness is gone and drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the chopped spinach and mix well. Stir and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, then season with salt to taste.
- Mix a dash of Tabasco with the slightly beaten eggs, then pour over the beef and spinach mixture.
- Stir until the eggs are set.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a warm platter.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Sprinkle with rice or noodles before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a little variation, try adding grated cheese to the egg mixture before pouring it over the beef and spinach. If you prefer, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Fresh spinach can be used instead of blanched, just sauté it until wilted. This dish is great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Little Joes over a bed of rice or noodles for a hearty meal. A side salad or steamed vegetables complement the dish well, providing a fresh contrast. This recipe also pairs beautifully with Beef Dressing Casserole for a comforting dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals until warmed through, or heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Little Joes contains roughly 772 calories, with 14g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (29% of the Daily Value) and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2312mg per serving (101% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used; just be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent the dish from becoming watery.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use lentils for protein. Adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavors.
What can I serve with Little Joes?
Consider pairing Little Joes with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also enjoy it alongside crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).