If you’ve never tried a Loco Moco Recipe before, you are seriously in for a treat. This beloved Hawaiian comfort food brings together simple ingredients in the most satisfying way, combining fluffy white rice, juicy beef patties, perfectly fried eggs, and rich brown gravy. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate, offering layers of flavor and texture that just work so well together. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or brunch that wows, this Loco Moco Recipe will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about this Loco Moco Recipe is its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but incredibly essential to get that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tender beef patties to the sunny-side-up eggs that add richness, and let’s not forget the gravy that ties everything together.
- 2 cups cooked white rice: Make sure it’s hot and fluffy as it serves as the perfect base for soaking up all those delicious flavors.
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean): The right fat content keeps the patties juicy and flavorful without being greasy.
- 2 large eggs: Fry them sunny-side up for that runny yolk that adds richness when broken over the dish.
- 1 cup brown gravy: Choose store-bought for convenience or homemade if you want that extra touch of love and depth.
How to Make Loco Moco Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by cooking your white rice according to the package instructions. It’s important to let it steam after cooking to get fluffy grains that aren’t sticky, as the rice acts as the perfect foundation for your Loco Moco.
Step 2: Shape and Cook the Beef Patties
Take your ground beef and shape it into two equal patties. Heating up a skillet over medium-high heat, cook each patty for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through, locking in juices and flavor. Resist the temptation to press the patties down—this keeps them tender.
Step 3: Fry the Eggs Sunny-Side Up
In the same skillet, using the residual beef drippings, fry your eggs sunny-side up. Cook them until the whites are set but the yolks remain beautifully runny, as that golden yolk is where much of the magic in this Loco Moco Recipe happens.
Step 4: Prepare the Brown Gravy
If you’re making gravy from scratch, warm it up now or simply heat your store-bought gravy until hot. The gravy should be smooth and savory, the perfect sauce to complement the beef and rice.
Step 5: Assemble Your Loco Moco
Now for the exciting part! Plate the cooked rice first, gently place the beef patties on top, add the fried eggs, and generously ladle the brown gravy all over. The layers should come together beautifully with every bite offering a harmony of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Loco Moco Recipe
Garnishes
While the classic Loco Moco doesn’t need much to shine, a sprinkle of chopped green onions or a dash of freshly ground black pepper can add a nice touch of color and a hint of freshness that elevates each bite without overshadowing the classic flavors.
Side Dishes
For a complete meal, serve your Loco Moco with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or even a refreshing cabbage slaw. These sides provide balance, adding crisp textures and vibrant colors that pair perfectly with the richness of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Try serving your Loco Moco in a bowl for a comforting, almost stew-like presentation, or add a slice of grilled pineapple on the side to nod to the dish’s Hawaiian roots. Mini versions are also fun for parties, making bite-sized Loco Moco sliders that are as cute as they are delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which can be rare because it’s so good), place them in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep components like eggs separate if you want to maintain their perfect texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the beef patties and gravy separately, but rice and eggs don’t freeze as well. Wrap patties tightly before freezing and use within 1 to 2 months for best taste.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm the beef patties and gravy on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep the gravy silky. Reheat rice with a damp paper towel over it to bring back moisture. Eggs are best freshly cooked, but if reheating, do it carefully to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
What makes Loco Moco different from a regular burger with rice?
The magic of Loco Moco lies in its layers—the beef patty isn’t just a burger; it’s paired with fluffy rice, a runny sunny-side-up egg, and smothered in savory brown gravy, creating a comforting medley unlike any ordinary burger meal.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! While traditional recipes call for beef, ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative. Just be sure to add extra seasoning and keep an eye on cooking time, as these meats tend to cook faster and can dry out.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make your Loco Moco Recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free brown gravy or make your own with gluten-free flour or cornstarch. Ensure any store-bought gravy or sauces you use are safe for gluten-sensitive diners.
Can I make the gravy from scratch?
Yes! Homemade brown gravy typically involves sautéing some butter and flour to make a roux, then gradually whisking in beef broth, seasoning with soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce, and simmering until thickened—a flavorful way to add your personal touch.
What’s the best way to get the eggs just right?
Use a non-stick pan and cook the eggs on medium-low heat, covered if possible, to ensure the whites set evenly without overcooking the yolks. The goal is a runny yolk that adds richness to every bite.
Final Thoughts
This Loco Moco Recipe is the heartwarming, satisfying dish that’s perfect any time you want a little taste of aloha spirit in your kitchen. It’s simple, comforting, and endlessly versatile. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience just how delicious and soul-satisfying this humble Hawaiian classic truly is.
Print
Loco Moco Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
Loco Moco is a classic Hawaiian comfort dish featuring savory ground beef patties served over fluffy white rice, topped with sunny-side-up eggs and smothered in rich brown gravy. Ready in just 35 minutes, this hearty meal combines simple ingredients for a satisfying and flavorful experience perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients
Rice
- 2 cups cooked white rice
Beef Patties
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
Eggs
- 2 large eggs
Gravy
- 1 cup brown gravy (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Cook Rice: Prepare the white rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, allow it to steam and fluff it with a fork to keep the grains separate and tender.
- Form and Cook Patties: Shape the ground beef into two equal-sized patties. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked through.
- Fry Eggs: Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and fry the eggs sunny-side up. Cook until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny for the best texture contrast.
- Prepare Gravy: If making gravy from scratch, prepare it now according to your recipe. Alternatively, heat the store-bought brown gravy until warmed through.
- Assemble the Loco Moco: Place a serving of cooked rice on each plate. Top each with a beef patty, then place a fried egg on top. Spoon the warm brown gravy generously over the eggs, patties, and rice to complete the dish.
Notes
- Use 80% lean ground beef for optimal flavor and juiciness in the patties.
- For vegetarian variation, substitute beef patties with plant-based alternatives and use vegetarian gravy.
- To make homemade brown gravy, use beef drippings, broth, and flour to create a rich, flavorful sauce.
- Cooking eggs sunny-side up with runny yolks adds a creamy texture that complements the savory components well.
- Leftover rice works perfectly for this dish, making it a great way to use up extras.
