Why Steak and Eggs Is Your New Go-To Meal

You might still think of steak and eggs as that heavy, greasy dish only found at old-school diners or maybe just for hardcore athletes. It’s a common misconception, but this classic meal is actually undergoing a massive transformation!

Far from being just a simple, old-fashioned breakfast, it has evolved into a surprisingly versatile and incredibly nutritious option for everyone.

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Is Steak and Eggs Actually That Good?

Seriously, step aside, gym bros and greasy spoons! This is about to change how you view your first meal of the day. The truth is, steak and eggs offers so much more than its traditional image suggests. It’s a delicious, adaptable, and seriously protein-rich meal that’s now gaining popularity across the globe.

Many people wonder if steak and eggs is a healthy meal, and we’re here to show you exactly how it can be. This isn’t just about fuel; it’s about flavor and smart eating. In this piece, we’ll uncover some truly amazing steak and eggs variations you’ve probably never heard of, along with clever cooking tips and nutrition hacks that can supercharge your morning. Get ready for a breakfast power move you absolutely need to try.

The Backstory – Where Did Steak and Eggs Come From Anyway?

So, where did this legendary morning fuel actually begin? It’s a fun journey. This iconic breakfast food first gained traction in bustling Australian cafés, offering a hearty start to the day.

From there, it quickly found its way to American diners, especially becoming a beloved diner classic in the southern and midwestern states. But its story goes even deeper, making it much more than just local fare.

If you believe all the recipes out there are basic, prepare to have your mind (and taste buds) completely blown. This classic dish is a blank canvas for incredible global flavors, and we’re about to show you how different countries make steak and eggs an entirely new experience.

5 Global Twists That’ll Make You Rethink Breakfast

Get ready to shake up your morning routine. What are different ways to eat steak and eggs? Forget the usual; here’s where we open up a whole new world of culinary inspiration with truly unique flavors.

These international breakfast spins are rarely shown together with clear, quick how-tos, but we’ve got you covered.

• • Korean Bulgogi + Fried Egg

This savory and slightly sweet dish brings a taste of Seoul right to your kitchen. It’s a fantastic international breakfast recipe.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 4 ounces thinly sliced beef like sirloin or ribeye
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• A pinch of black pepper
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• A large egg
• A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds
• Optional: kimchi, cooked rice, or fresh scallions for serving

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper to create your bulgogi marinade. Add the beef slices and toss to coat them well. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to soak up those flavors.
2. Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Add a tiny bit of cooking oil if needed. Place the marinated beef in the hot pan and cook quickly, stirring frequently, until it’s nicely browned and caramelized, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
3. In the same pan, or a separate non-stick pan, crack your egg and fry it sunny-side up until the whites are set and the yolk is perfectly runny.
4. Serve the flavorful bulgogi beef topped with the freshly fried egg. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and aroma. Enjoy it with a side of spicy kimchi, a bowl of steamed rice, or even wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter bite.

• • Vietnamese Bò Né

Get ready for a sizzling plate of deliciousness, a true street food gem. This unique flavor combination is a real treat.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes

Ingredients:

• A large egg
• 4 ounces tender beef slices, like skirt steak or flank steak
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• A tablespoon liver pâté
• A pinch of black pepper
• 1 fresh baguette, for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat a heavy skillet or a cast-iron pan over high heat until it’s very hot. Add a tiny bit of cooking oil.
2. Carefully place the beef slices onto the hot pan. Quickly sear them for just 1 to 2 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your liking.
3. While the beef cooks, crack the egg directly onto the hot pan next to the beef. Add the spoonful of liver pâté right beside the egg. Let the egg cook sunny-side up until the whites are set but the yolk is still soft.
4. Serve the sizzling plate immediately. Break the egg yolk and mix it with the pâté and beef juices right on the hot plate. Use slices of the fresh, crusty baguette to dip into all those amazing, rich flavors.

• • Argentinian Bife a Caballo

Simple, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, this dish embodies the spirit of robust Argentinian cuisine. It’s a truly satisfying global cuisine idea.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10-15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 medium steak, like sirloin or ribeye (about 6-8 ounces)
• A large egg
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: a generous serving of crispy french fries

Instructions:

1. Pat your steak completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat the cooking oil in a sturdy pan over medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer.
3. Carefully place the seasoned steak in the hot pan. Cook for about 4 to 6 minutes per side for a medium-rare steak, or adjust the cooking time to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes to keep it juicy.
4. While the steak rests, crack your egg directly into the same pan (or a clean one if preferred). Fry the egg sunny-side up until the whites are set and the yolk remains wonderfully runny. Season the egg with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Place the perfectly fried egg directly on top of the cooked steak. Serve immediately, traditionally with a generous side of crispy french fries.

• • Mexican Steak Rancheros

Bring some vibrant, zesty flavors to your breakfast table with this colorful dish, a fantastic breakfast idea for any day.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 5-10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4-6 ounces cooked steak, thinly sliced (freshly cooked or leftover works great)
• 2 small corn or flour tortillas
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon cooking oil
• 1/2 cup your favorite ranchero sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/4 avocado, sliced
• 1 lime wedge, for squeezing
• Optional: 1 tablespoon crumbled cotija or feta cheese

Instructions:

1. If your steak isn’t already cooked, prepare it now by grilling or searing, then slice it thinly. If using leftover steak, gently warm the slices in a pan.
2. Warm your tortillas. You can do this in a dry pan over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or briefly in a microwave, until they are soft and pliable. Set them aside.
3. Heat the cooking oil in a small pan over medium heat. Crack the egg into the pan and cook it fried, perhaps over easy, so the yolk is perfectly soft and runny.
4. To assemble your easy ethnic meal, lay a warm tortilla on your plate. Arrange a layer of sliced steak on top, then carefully slide the fried egg onto the steak.
5. Spoon a generous amount of warm ranchero sauce over the egg and steak. Finish with fresh avocado slices, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and a sprinkle of crumbled cheese if desired. Repeat for the second taco.

• • Aussie Brunch Style

Head Down Under for a fresh and wholesome take on this classic. This version feels light, clean, and incredibly nourishing, making it a perfect healthy fats breakfast option for a relaxed weekend morning.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 10-15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4-6 ounces grilled steak (a leaner cut works well)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh greens, like spinach or kale
• 1 teaspoon cooking oil (olive oil is great here)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 thick slice of sourdough toast

Instructions:

1. 1. 1. Season your steak with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear it to your desired doneness. Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
      2. While the steak cooks, prepare your poached eggs. Bring a medium pot of water to a gentle simmer. Add a tiny splash of vinegar to the water. Gently crack each egg into a separate small bowl, then carefully slide them into the simmering water. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks are still wonderfully runny.
      3. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the fresh greens and sauté for just 2 to 3 minutes until they are wilted. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
      4. Toast your sourdough bread to your liking.
      5. To serve, arrange the sliced grilled steak, the beautifully poached eggs, and the sautéed greens on your plate. Place the sourdough toast alongside for a truly refreshing and nourishing breakfast experience.

Most people think making a delicious steak and eggs meal takes ages, or that you’re stuck with just one basic version. That’s a myth we’re here to bust! You don’t need to be a gourmet chef, nor do you need endless time in the kitchen to enjoy this incredible dish.

In fact, steak and eggs is surprisingly flexible and can be whipped up in many different ways to suit your mood, your diet, or how much time you have. It’s all about breaking up those old routines with some truly easy-to-make versions that are both satisfying and quick.

Quick Recipes for Every Mood (or Craving)

Are you wondering what’s the easiest steak and eggs recipe to start with? Or maybe if you can use leftover steak for breakfast to save time?

You absolutely can! Here are some simple and delightful recipes for every single craving you might have, from comforting classics to clever new takes.

• • Classic Diner Style

This is the timeless favorite, perfect when you want that comforting, hearty breakfast. It’s surprisingly simple to master.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium steak (like sirloin or flank steak, about 4-6 oz per person)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil (like olive or avocado oil)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 slice of your favorite toast (sourdough is great!)

Instructions:

1. Pat your steak dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the oil in a sturdy pan (cast iron is best!) over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
3. Carefully place the steak in the hot pan. Cook for about 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
4. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. This keeps it juicy!
5. While the steak rests, crack your eggs directly into the same pan (or a separate non-stick pan). Cook them sunny-side up until the whites are set and the yolks are still wonderfully runny. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Slice your steak against the grain, then serve immediately with the eggs and toast. It’s truly an easy breakfast idea that tastes amazing.

• • Keto Scramble

For a delicious high-protein breakfast that keeps carbs low, this keto-friendly scramble is your go-to.

Ingredients:

• 4-6 oz ribeye strips or thin-sliced sirloin
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional, but great for flavor)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a pan over medium heat. Add half a tablespoon of butter.
2. Add the ribeye strips to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the remaining butter to the pan. If using, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 3-5 minutes until tender.
4. While the mushrooms cook (or directly into the pan if not using mushrooms), whisk your eggs in a small bowl with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the pan. Stir gently with a spatula as the eggs cook, scrambling them until they are set to your liking.
6. Stir the cooked steak strips back into the scrambled eggs. Serve immediately for a satisfying, low-carb breakfast.

• • Steak and Egg Taco

A fun, flavorful twist perfect for a quick meal, bringing a little Mexican inspiration to your morning.

Ingredients:

• 4-6 oz cooked steak, thinly sliced (freshly cooked or leftover works great!)
• 2 small corn or flour tortillas
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon cooking oil
• 2 tablespoons your favorite salsa
• 2-3 slices of avocado
• Optional: a squeeze of lime, crumbled feta or cotija cheese

Instructions:

1. If your steak isn’t already cooked, prepare it now (a quick sear works well) and slice it thinly. If using leftover steak, gently warm it in a pan.
2. Warm your tortillas in a dry pan over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, until soft and pliable. Set aside.
3. Heat the oil in a small pan over medium heat. Crack the egg into the pan and cook it fried, sunny-side up or over easy, so the yolk is still soft.
4. Assemble your taco: Lay out a warm tortilla. Add a layer of sliced steak, then carefully slide the fried egg on top.
5. Spoon on your favorite salsa, add the avocado slices, and sprinkle with cheese and a squeeze of lime if you like. Repeat for the second taco. These are fantastic for a quick and easy recipe!

• • Breakfast Bowl

This is a versatile and healthy breakfast recipe, letting you build a nutritious start to your day with a mix of ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 4-6 oz cooked steak, diced (can be fresh or leftover)
• 1 large poached egg
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
• 1 cup fresh greens (like spinach, kale, or mixed greens)
• Optional: 1/4 sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, a drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare your quinoa or rice according to package directions. If using fresh steak, cook and dice it. If using leftover steak, gently warm the diced pieces.
2. To poach an egg: Bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer. Add a splash of vinegar (this helps the egg hold its shape). Gently crack an egg into a small bowl, then slide it into the simmering water. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the whites are set and the yolk is runny.
3. In a bowl, create your base with the cooked quinoa or rice. Add the fresh greens.
4. Arrange the diced steak on top of the greens.
5. Carefully place the poached egg on top of the steak.
6. Add any optional toppings like avocado slices or cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. It’s a wonderfully customizable breakfast bowl.

• • Leftover Steak Hash

Don’t let good steak go to waste! This hearty hash is one of the best easy breakfast ideas for using up those delicious leftovers.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked steak, diced into small cubes (this is perfect for using up leftover steak!)
• 1 medium potato or sweet potato, cooked and diced (boiled or baked potatoes work best)
• 1/2 small onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 2 large eggs
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped bell peppers, garlic powder, fresh herbs

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion (and bell peppers, if using) to the pan and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.
3. Add the diced cooked potato or sweet potato to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the potatoes to get slightly crispy and heated through.
4. Stir in the diced leftover steak and any optional garlic powder or herbs. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just to heat the steak through. Season the hash with salt and pepper.
5. Make two wells in the hash mixture. Crack an egg into each well. Cook the eggs to your liking (sunny-side up with runny yolks is classic for hash!).
6. Serve the hash immediately, perhaps topped with a few fresh chives. It’s a comforting and clever way to enjoy a substantial morning meal.

You might have heard whispers that steak and eggs, despite its popularity, isn’t actually good for you, or that it’s just a fatty, unhealthy meal.

Let’s bust that myth right now! The truth is, when prepared smartly, this dynamic duo can be an incredibly healthy and nutrient-dense choice, perfectly fitting into various beneficial eating plans. It’s all about understanding the facts and making informed decisions.

Is It Actually Healthy? Let’s See the Facts

As a health expert, I can tell you that the nutritional benefits of steak and eggs are truly impressive. This isn’t just about filling your stomach; it’s about fueling your body with a powerful combination of nutrients that support everything from muscle growth to brain function, making it a truly dominant choice for your diet.

Your Protein-Packed Muscle Fuel

Steak and eggs is absolutely packed with protein – we’re talking around 20-30 grams per serving, depending on your portion size, according to data from the USDA. That’s a huge win for building and maintaining muscle, keeping you feeling full and energized for hours. This high-quality complete protein provides all the essential amino acids your body needs to repair tissues and recover, making it an ideal meal after a workout or on a busy day. It’s truly a fantastic meal for muscle building and overall energy.

Nutrient Blast Beyond Protein

Moreover, this dish bursts with crucial micronutrients that go way beyond just protein. For example, a large egg contains around 147 mg of choline, a vital nutrient for brain health and memory, as highlighted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Steak, especially red meat, is a prime source of highly absorbable iron (around 2-3 mg per 3 oz serving for lean cuts), essential for preventing fatigue and keeping your blood strong.

You’ll also get plenty of vitamin B12, which boosts your brain and nervous system, and zinc, a big deal for a healthy immune system. These powerful nutrients keep you feeling sharp, energetic, and healthy.

Supporting Hormonal Health for Fitness Fans

For many fitness enthusiasts, there’s also an interest in how food impacts hormonal balance. Thanks to its rich content of zinc and protein, a meal like steak and eggs might play a supportive role in natural testosterone production for men, as some studies suggest.

While it’s definitely not a magic solution, it provides key building blocks and essential nutrients that contribute to overall metabolic health. If you’re serious about your fitness goals, this protein-rich meal offers robust fuel for strength and recovery.

Perfect Fit for Keto and Paleo Diets

When people ask, “Is steak and eggs good for weight loss?” the answer is often yes, especially if you’re following specific dietary patterns. For folks on keto, paleo, or other low-carb diets, steak and eggs is a dream come true.

It’s naturally low in carbohydrates but high in satiating protein and healthy fats, which helps your body utilize fat for fuel and keeps hunger at bay. Add some greens like spinach or a slice of avocado, and you’re golden for a truly balanced breakfast that supports your dietary goals.

Understanding the Calories

Knowing your food’s makeup is key for smart eating. While I can’t draw a live chart here, think of a clear table breaking down the typical calories, protein, and carbohydrates for different versions. For instance, a classic diner style might be around 500-700 calories, while a keto scramble could be 450-600 calories, showing you the immediate nutritional impact.

These numbers directly answer “How many calories are in a steak and eggs breakfast?” and help you make informed choices. Remember, these figures change based on portion size, specific steak cut, and how you cook it.

The ultimate tip for making steak and eggs a consistently healthy part of your diet is all about balance and smart choices. Always aim to include a generous portion of vibrant greens, whether it’s a side of sautéed spinach, a fresh green salad, or sliced avocado, which adds more fiber and beneficial fats.

Also, practicing portion control with your steak helps manage calorie and fat intake effectively. Choosing leaner protein cuts, like a lean sirloin, also makes a big difference in reducing saturated fat while still giving you all the goodness.

The common belief that this dish can’t be elevated beyond basic salt and pepper is simply outdated. It turns out, a few clever tweaks can transform your morning meal from good to absolutely mind-blowing.

Flavor Hacks from the Digital Kitchen: Elevate Your Steak and Eggs

Ever wonder how to add more flavor to steak and eggs? Or what goes well with steak and eggs beyond the usual? If you’re looking to seriously step up your breakfast game, you’re in the right place. These aren’t just random suggestions; these are real-world, battle-tested flavor enhancement ideas from folks who live for great food. Let’s dive into these genius insights:

• Fry eggs in garlic butter—trust me.

This hack is pure genius for a reason. Butter itself is fantastic for cooking eggs, but infusing it with garlic before cracking your eggs in? That’s a total game-changer. The garlic slowly cooks in the butter, releasing its rich, aromatic compounds, which then get absorbed by the eggs as they cook.

It adds a savory flavor depth that’s incredibly simple yet deeply satisfying. It transforms a regular fried egg into a gourmet experience, making every bite of your breakfast feel a little more special.

• Chimichurri over ribeye? Total game changer.

If you haven’t tried this, you are missing out on a serious flavor explosion. Chimichurri, that vibrant, herbaceous Argentinian sauce, is usually associated with grilled meats, and for good reason. Drizzling

it over a juicy ribeye and alongside your eggs introduces a fresh, tangy, and garlicky counterpoint to the richness of the meat. It’s a fantastic way to add an umami boost and cut through the richness with bright, lively notes. This isn’t just about adding flavor; it’s about balancing textures and tastes for a truly unforgettable culinary secret.

• Soy + sesame marinade = life.

This simple marinade is a flavor cheat code, especially for leaner cuts like flank or sirloin. A quick soak (even just 20-30 minutes if you’re in a hurry) in a mix of soy sauce, a touch of sesame oil, minced garlic, and a hint of ginger transforms the meat.

The soy sauce brings umami and tenderness, while the sesame oil adds a nutty, aromatic depth. When you sear the marinated steak, it develops an incredible crust that pairs beautifully with soft eggs. This cooking tip is a fantastic way to infuse your steak with exotic, savory flavors.

• Bò Né with pâté blew my mind.

We briefly touched on this global twist earlier, but the internet’s obsession with it comes down to one thing: the pâté. When you serve your sizzling beef and eggs with a dollop of rich, creamy liver pâté, it adds an unexpected layer of luxuriousness and an incredible savory flavor.

The pâté melts slightly into the hot beef and egg, creating an unbelievably rich sauce that’s perfect for dipping with a crusty baguette. It’s a bold move, but if you’re open to exploring unique flavors, this combination is an absolute must-try for a truly gourmet breakfast.

• Use leftover steak from dinner in a breakfast wrap.

This isn’t just a flavor hack; it’s a convenience hack that enhances your morning. The internet loves efficiency, and repurposing perfectly cooked dinner steak into a breakfast meal is pure brilliance. Thinly slice your chilled leftover steak, gently warm it, and then combine it with a fried egg, a warm tortilla, and some fresh salsa or a sprinkle of cheese.

The slightly cooled and then reheated steak often has a different, pleasing texture, and it absorbs other flavors beautifully. This tip makes for a super quick and easy recipe, transforming an ordinary leftover into a delicious and hearty breakfast. It’s an ideal solution for a busy morning meal that still delivers on taste.

Wrap It Up: Your Breakfast Just Got an Upgrade

If you’ve been stuck in a breakfast rut, believing your morning meal options were limited to the same old cereals or toasts, think again! We’ve just shown you how steak and eggs can be transformed from a basic dish into a global culinary adventure.

This incredible combination truly has serious range, from its historical roots to incredible international spins and super quick, mood-specific recipes. It’s a versatile powerhouse ready to elevate your daily routine.

We’ve covered everything from high-quality protein insights to awesome flavor enhancement techniques, demonstrating how versatile and nutritious this meal can be. Your breakfast doesn’t have to be boring or complicated; it can be an exciting, nutrient-dense meal every single time. We really encourage you to pick one of these versions and give it a try this week.

Which one are you trying first? Let me know in the comments below!

Bonus Section: FAQs

You might think that all your questions about steak and eggs are already covered, or that FAQs are just an afterthought. We know you have specific questions, and getting direct, concise answers is key for making your life easier.

• Can I eat steak and eggs every day?

While steak and eggs is very nutritious and can be part of a healthy diet, eating only this meal daily might lead to missing some micronutrients found in a wider variety of foods. It’s best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet that includes plenty of different vegetables, fruits, and other protein sources to ensure you get all your essential nutrients. Variety truly is the spice of a healthy life!

• Can you meal prep steak and eggs?

Yes, absolutely! You can cook your steak ahead of time (medium-rare is best for reheating) and store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. For eggs, you can hard-boil or pre-cook scrambled eggs and store them. When ready to eat, simply reheat the steak gently and quickly cook fresh eggs, or warm your pre-cooked eggs. This makes for super easy breakfast ideas during busy weekdays, cutting down on morning prep time significantly.

• What sides go best with steak and eggs?

To make your steak and eggs even better, consider these additions:

• • Greens: Sautéed spinach, kale, or a simple green salad for fiber and vitamins.
  • Healthy Fats: Sliced avocado or a sprinkle of nuts for healthy fats and satiety.
  • Carbs: Roasted potatoes (sweet or regular), quinoa, or a slice of whole-grain toast for sustained energy.
  • Freshness: A side of fresh fruit (berries or grapefruit) or a vibrant salsa for a tangy kick.

• Can I make it in the air fryer?

Yes, you can! Air fryers are fantastic for cooking steak quickly and getting a nice crust. For steak, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Season your steak and cook for about 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway, depending on thickness and desired doneness.

For eggs, you can crack them into a small, oven-safe dish or ramekin and air fry at a lower temperature (around 300°F/150°C) for 3-6 minutes, or you can simply cook them on the stovetop while your steak air-fries. This is a great way to create a fuss-free, quick meal with minimal cleanup!