If you are ready to dive into a legendary Hawaiian comfort dish, this Loco Moco Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a juicy, perfectly seasoned beef patty resting on a bed of fluffy white rice, all smothered in rich, homemade brown gravy, and crowned with a sunny-side-up egg that adds creaminess with every bite. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal that brilliantly balances textures and flavors, making it an all-time favorite for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays an essential role in creating the authentic taste and comforting texture of this Loco Moco Recipe. From the savory beef patties to the silky gravy and the creamy eggs, every element works together to make this dish truly memorable.
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend): The perfect fat content for juicy, flavorful patties that won’t dry out.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple yet crucial seasonings that bring out the beef’s natural flavor.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For a nice sear on the patties without burning.
- 2 cups cooked white rice: Jasmine or short grain is best for that authentic Hawaiian texture.
- 4 large eggs: Fried sunny-side up to introduce creamy richness to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used for both cooking the eggs and making the luscious gravy.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The base for thickening the savory brown gravy.
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth: Adds depth and richness to the gravy.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Gives the gravy a complex, tangy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Enhances the umami taste in the gravy.
How to Make Loco Moco Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Beef Patties
Season your ground beef generously with salt and pepper, then divide and shape it into four even patties. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook each patty for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful brown crust and are cooked through. Removing them from the heat and keeping them warm is key for assembling the dish later.
Step 2: Whip Up the Delicious Brown Gravy
Using the same pan guarantees you’ll capture all those flavorful browned bits from the beef. Melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour. Cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until it turns golden and creates a roux. Slowly add beef broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in Worcestershire and soy sauce, then season well with salt and pepper. Let it simmer and thicken for about five minutes. The result is a rich, velvety gravy that makes this Loco Moco Recipe utterly irresistible.
Step 3: Fry the Eggs to Perfection
In another pan, melt two tablespoons of butter and gently fry your eggs sunny-side up or to your preferred doneness. The runny yolks add a wonderful silky texture to the dish, complementing the meat and gravy perfectly.
Step 4: Assemble the Classic Hawaiian Dish
Start by scooping fluffy white rice onto each plate. Top each portion with a warm beef patty, generously ladle the thick brown gravy over it, and finish by placing a gorgeous fried egg right on top. This simple layering technique creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that defines the beloved Loco Moco Recipe.
How to Serve Loco Moco Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions or chopped parsley add a touch of color and a subtle, fresh bite to cut through the richness. If you like a little heat, a dash of hot sauce or some sliced jalapeños feels right at home here too.
Side Dishes
Loco Moco is a hearty meal on its own, but if you want to add some balance, crisp mac salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans provide a refreshing crunch. For a true island vibe, serve alongside grilled pineapple or a fresh papaya salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this classic into a fun twist by serving it in a bread bowl or making mini slider versions for a party appetizer. You can also layer it in a bowl with some sautéed mushrooms and onions stirred into the gravy for a richer flavor profile that still respects the traditional Loco Moco Recipe spirit.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover components in airtight containers and refrigerate promptly. The beef patties, rice, and gravy will keep well for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy this Loco Moco Recipe again without losing any of its signature flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked beef patties and gravy separately for up to two months. Make sure to cool everything thoroughly before freezing and use freezer-safe containers or bags to preserve freshness. Rice doesn’t freeze as well, so it’s better prepared fresh.
Reheating
Reheat the beef patties and gravy slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring the gravy occasionally to keep it smooth. For the eggs, it’s best to make fresh as reheated eggs rarely capture the same creamy texture that makes this Loco Moco Recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Though beef is traditional, ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative. Just be mindful they cook faster and might need additional seasoning to maintain that savory punch.
What rice is best for Loco Moco?
Jasmine or short-grain white rice works best because they have a stickier, slightly chewy texture that holds up well under the gravy and patties. Avoid long-grain rice as it tends to be too fluffy and separate.
Is there a vegetarian version of Loco Moco?
Yes! Swap the beef patty with a hearty veggie or mushroom patty and use vegetable broth to make the gravy. It won’t be quite the same but still delicious and comforting.
Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
You sure can! The gravy actually tastes even better after sitting for a bit, so making it ahead and gently reheating is a great way to save time without sacrificing flavor.
What if I don’t like runny yolks?
No problem at all. You can cook the eggs to your liking—over-easy, over-medium, or even scrambled works well, just keep the egg warm until serving.
Final Thoughts
This Loco Moco Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace from the Hawaiian islands that brings together hearty beef, fluffy rice, rich gravy, and a creamy egg in perfect harmony. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food that feels like a warm, satisfying hug on a plate.
Print
Loco Moco Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
- Diet: Dairy-Free option (with substitutions)
Description
Loco Moco is a classic Hawaiian comfort food dish featuring juicy ground beef patties served over steamed white rice, topped with a rich and savory brown gravy, and finished with a perfectly fried egg. This hearty, satisfying meal blends simple ingredients into a deliciously flavorful experience, great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Gravy
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Patties: Season the ground beef with salt and pepper, then divide and shape into 4 equal-sized patties. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 3–4 minutes per side or until browned and cooked through. Remove patties from the skillet and keep warm.
- Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown. Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce, then season with salt and pepper. Let the gravy simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
- Cook the Eggs: In a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Fry the eggs sunny-side up or cook to your preferred doneness.
- Assemble the Dish: Spoon the cooked white rice onto serving plates. Place a cooked beef patty over the rice, then generously ladle warm gravy over the patty. Top each serving with a fried egg and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use jasmine or short-grain rice for the most authentic texture and flavor.
- For added depth, sauté onions or mushrooms and incorporate them into the gravy.
- Serve loco moco hot and fresh to enjoy the full comfort food experience.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with a plant-based oil or margarine.
