Name: Loco Moco: A Comforting Hawaiian Lunch You’ll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef (primary protein source); 1 large Egg (fried sunny-side-up); 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (binds the mixture); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (low-sodium for less saltiness); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (optional enhancement); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (can use fresh minced garlic); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 2 tablespoons Butter (for richness); 2 tablespoons Flour (to create roux); 2 cups Beef Broth (homemade yields best results); 2 cups Rice (short or medium-grain preferred); 1 tablespoon Oil or Butter (prevents sticking)

As I stepped into my kitchen, the sizzle of a frying egg prompted an irresistible craving for a dish that’s become my comfort food go-to: Loco Moco (Hawaiian Lunch). This delightful blend of fluffy rice, juicy burger patties, and rich gravy is not only a crowd-pleaser but also surprisingly quick to make—ready in under 40 minutes! Best of all, this classic Hawaiian comfort food is fully customizable. Whether you prefer beef, turkey, or a plant-based alternative, there’s a version for everyone. The sheer joy of creating this hearty meal from scratch fills my home with warmth and nostalgia. Curious about how to put together your own Loco Moco masterpiece? Let’s dive in!

What makes Loco Moco irresistible?

Satisfying and hearty, Loco Moco is the ultimate comfort food, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Customizable to your taste, whether you want to use beef, turkey, or a plant-based protein, there’s a delicious option for everyone. Quick to prepare, you can have this mouthwatering dish ready in under 40 minutes! Crowd-pleaser vibes abound; friends and family will love digging into this rich blend of flavors. Nostalgic in every bite, this dish transports you straight to Hawaii, making meal times special. Want to explore more comforting meals? Check out our recipes for quick weeknight dinners and customizable comfort foods!

Loco Moco Ingredients

• Make your Loco Moco shine with these essentials!

For the Patties

Ground Beef – The primary protein source that delivers rich flavor and sustenance.
Egg – Adds creaminess when fried sunny-side-up, completing the dish beautifully.
Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the mixture, ensuring your patties hold together well.
Soy Sauce – Infuses umami flavor into the meat; consider low-sodium for less saltiness.
Worcestershire Sauce – An optional enhancement that adds depth to the beef patties.
Garlic Powder – Elevates the overall flavor; fresh minced garlic can offer a stronger taste.

For the Gravy

Butter – Brings richness to the gravy for a luscious finish.
Flour – Used to create a roux that thickens your gravy perfectly.
Beef Broth – The flavor-packed base for the gravy; homemade broth yields the best results.

For the Rice

Rice – Provides a cozy foundation, with short or medium-grain rice being the preferred choice.

For Frying Eggs

Oil or Butter – Prevents sticking and promotes even cooking of the eggs to your desired doneness.

With these Loco Moco ingredients, you’re well on your way to crafting a memorable Hawaiian lunch experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Loco Moco (Hawaiian Lunch)

Step 1: Prepare Patties
In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined—do not overwork the meat to keep the patties tender. Shape the mixture into 2-4 evenly sized patties, about ½ inch thick. Set them aside on a plate while you heat up the skillet.

Step 2: Cook Patties
Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat for about 3 minutes. Once hot, add a splash of oil if your skillet isn’t non-stick. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Once cooked through, transfer the patties to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make Gravy
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until it bubbles. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it takes on a golden hue. Gradually pour in the beef broth while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Stir in soy sauce, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Allow the gravy to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Fry Eggs
In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, crack in the eggs gently, cooking them sunny-side-up for about 3-4 minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny. If you prefer your eggs cooked differently, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Remove them from the pan and keep warm.

Step 5: Assemble Loco Moco
On each plate, serve a generous portion of warm, sticky rice as the base. Top it with a hamburger patty, then generously pour the rich, savory gravy over the patty. Finally, crown each dish with a fried egg on top. Enjoy your homemade Loco Moco, and savor the delightful combination of flavors and textures that make this Hawaiian lunch a comforting favorite!

Tips for the Best Loco Moco

Perfect Patties: Mix ground beef gently to avoid tough burgers; overworking can lead to a chewy texture in your Loco Moco.
Rich Gravy: Use homemade beef broth for an extra depth of flavor in your gravy that elevates this Hawaiian lunch dish.
Fried Egg Style: Adjust egg cooking preferences; sunny-side-up offers a delightful runny yolk, while over-easy provides a firmer option.
Rice Choice: Opt for short or medium-grain rice as it becomes sticky, enhancing the overall comfort food experience.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in separate containers for up to three days; reheat patties and rice before adding fresh eggs for the best taste.

Loco Moco Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Loco Moco by customizing the ingredients to match your taste and dietary preferences!

Plant-Based: Substitute ground beef with plant-based patties for a delicious vegan version. You won’t miss the meat with all the savory flavors!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a flavorful heat that elevates the dish beautifully.
Cheesy Delight: Top your Loco Moco with shredded cheese that melts over the hot patty and gravy for an extra rich and decadent flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornstarch instead of flour for the gravy to enjoy this comforting meal without gluten.
Quinoa Base: Swap rice for fluffy quinoa to increase protein and add a nutty twist to the traditional dish while keeping it light.
Savory Toppings: Elevate your meal with fresh toppings like sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or even pickled ginger for zingy contrast.
Sautéed Veggies: Serve your Loco Moco with a side of sautéed spinach or mixed vegetables to bring in color, nutrition, and texture to your plate.
Fried Tempeh: For a different protein option, replace the beef patty with pan-fried tempeh, which adds a delightful nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the gravy.

Diving into these variations not only caters to different diets but also keeps this comforting favorite fresh and exciting! For more delicious swaps, check out our guides on quick weeknight dinners and other customizable comfort foods.

What to Serve With Classic Hawaiian Loco Moco

Make your meal complete with these delicious pairings that enhance the comforting flavors of Loco Moco!

Macaroni Salad: This creamy, tangy side adds a refreshing bite that balances Loco Moco’s richness—perfect for a traditional Hawaiian plate.
Sautéed Greens: Lightly seasoned and sautéed kale or spinach offers a vibrant contrast, bringing freshness to your hearty meal.
Sweet Pineapple Slices: Grilled or fresh, pineapple adds a burst of sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the savory patty and gravy.
Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw cleanses the palate and adds a delightful texture that complements the dish.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A glass of homemade lemonade or iced tea serves as a refreshing drink, cooling down the meal and enhancing your dining experience.
Teriyaki Glazed Vegetables: Roasted or stir-fried veggies with a touch of teriyaki sauce can introduce a new layer of flavor while adding colorful freshness to your plate.
Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet, creamy rice pairs perfectly with Loco Moco, enhancing the tropical vibe of your meal.
Haupia: A traditional Hawaiian coconut pudding for dessert, creamy and sweet, is the perfect way to end your delightful dining experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Loco Moco meals are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the hamburger patties up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, then shape them into patties and refrigerate. Just ensure you cover them tightly to prevent any drying out. The homemade gravy can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; simply reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your Loco Moco, cook the patties fresh for that juicy flavor, fried eggs to perfection, and assemble everything quickly for a delightful, comforting meal with minimal effort.

How to Store and Freeze Loco Moco

Fridge: Store leftover Loco Moco in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep rice, patties, and gravy separate to maintain texture.

Freezer: Freeze cooked patties and gravy in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Leaving rice out is recommended as it can become mushy when reheated.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth or water to gravy if necessary. Restore freshness to your Loco Moco with a freshly fried egg on top!

Preparation Tips: If making ahead, prepare patties in advance and refrigerate them. Allow to come to room temperature before cooking for even doneness.

Loco Moco (Hawaiian Lunch) Recipe FAQs

What type of rice works best for Loco Moco?
For the best texture, I recommend using short or medium-grain rice. This type has more stickiness, which helps hold the flavors of the gravy and patty beautifully.

How should I store leftover Loco Moco?
Store leftover Loco Moco in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To preserve texture, keep the rice, patties, and gravy in separate containers.

Can I freeze Loco Moco?
Absolutely! You can freeze cooked patties and gravy in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. I suggest leaving the rice out when freezing, as it tends to become mushy when reheated.

How do I reheat frozen Loco Moco?
To reheat, place the frozen patties and gravy in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water to the gravy to restore its consistency. Serve with a fresh fried egg on top for the perfect finish!

Can I use a different protein for the patties?
Very much! Loco Moco is highly customizable. You can use ground turkey, pork, or even plant-based patties if you prefer a healthier or vegetarian option. Just ensure whatever protein you choose is well-seasoned for optimal flavor.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider?
Keep in mind that this recipe contains common allergens such as eggs and soy sauce. If you’re serving family or friends with allergies, you can substitute the soy sauce with coconut aminos or a homemade sauce, and use egg alternatives like tofu scramble for those avoiding eggs.