Stepping into a bustling Hawaiian diner, I was captivated by the comforting aroma wafting through the air. In the vibrant culinary tapestry of Hawaii, the Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco stands out as a beloved classic. This hearty dish marries juicy ground beef patties, fluffy rice, savory brown gravy, and a perfectly fried egg, creating a symphony of textures that leave you craving more. One of the best perks? It’s effortlessly customizable! Whether you’re sticking with tradition or swapping ingredients to cater to your taste, this recipe adapts splendidly to your kitchen whims. Plus, with a high-protein content, it’s not just delicious—it’s also a filling, wholesome choice for any meal of the day. Ready to dive into a dish that captures the essence of comfort food? Let’s make some Loco Moco magic together!

Why is Loco Moco a must-try dish?

Hearty Comfort: This dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Customizable Options: With flexible ingredients, you can easily switch beef for turkey or even try a plant-based patty for a healthier twist.

Quick and Easy: The straightforward preparation process means you can whip up a delicious Loco Moco in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.

Nutrient-Packed: Boasting around 52g of protein per serving, this dish is not just tasty—it’s also a fulfilling choice for those looking to fuel their day.

Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, the Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco is bound to impress, making it a timeless addition to your recipe collection. Try pairing it with a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal experience.

Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco Ingredients

For the Rice
• White medium grain rice – 2 cups; this is the ideal base for achieving that fluffy and sticky texture.
• Water – 2 cups; essential for cooking the rice to perfection.

For the Gravy
• Beef stock – 2 cups; brings a rich flavor to your gravy; can switch to vegetable broth for a lighter version.
• Cornstarch – 3 tablespoons; helps thicken the gravy for that perfect consistency.
• Onion powder – 1 teaspoon; adds savory depth to the gravy.
• Shoyu (Soy Sauce) – 1 teaspoon; infuses umami flavor; tamari is a great gluten-free swap.
• Beef bouillon paste – 1 teaspoon; enhances the gravy flavor, though it can be omitted for a lighter option.
• Heavy cream – 1 tablespoon; lends creaminess to the gravy, or substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.

For the Patties
• Ground beef – 2 pounds; main protein source for the patties, but feel free to use turkey or a vegetarian option.
• Egg – 1 large egg; acts as a binder and adds richness to your burger mixture.
• Onion – ¼ cup, diced; contributes flavor and moisture; shallots can be used for a subtler taste.
• Panko breadcrumbs – ¼ cup; adds delightful texture to the patties; gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used if needed.
• Ketchup – 2 tablespoons; offers sweetness and moisture; consider using homemade tomato sauce for a twist.
• Mayonnaise – 2 tablespoons; increases richness in the mix.
• Salt and pepper – To taste; vital for seasoning.

For the Toppings
• Large eggs – 6 (for frying); serve your Loco Moco with an over-easy egg for that beautiful runny yolk.
• Cooking oil – Of choice; use this to fry the eggs to perfection.

Embrace the adventure of crafting the Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco and indulge in the comfort of flavors that unite culture, taste, and your kitchen creativity!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco

Step 1: Cook the Rice
Begin by rinsing 2 cups of white medium grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear, which helps remove excess starch. Then, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water in a rice cooker. Cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until fluffy, about 20 minutes. Once done, let it sit covered for another 10 minutes to achieve the ideal sticky texture.

Step 2: Make the Gravy
In a medium saucepan, whisk together 2 cups of beef stock, 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of shoyu (soy sauce), and 1 teaspoon of beef bouillon paste. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 5–7 minutes. Once thickened, stir in 1 tablespoon of heavy cream for extra richness, then remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 pounds of ground beef with 1 large egg, ¼ cup of diced onion, ¼ cup of panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined, then form the mixture into evenly sized patties, about ¾ inch thick. Set aside as you heat the cooking oil.

Step 4: Cook the Patties
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of cooking oil. Once the oil is hot, gently place the patties into the skillet. Cook for 5–6 minutes on one side until browned, then carefully flip and cook for an additional 5–6 minutes until fully cooked and the interior reaches 160°F (70°C). Remove the patties from the skillet and keep warm.

Step 5: Cook the Eggs
In the same skillet, add a little more cooking oil if necessary, and reduce the heat to medium. Crack 6 large eggs into the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd. Season with salt and cook until the whites are set and the edges are lightly browned, about 2–3 minutes. If you prefer, gently flip the eggs to cook them over-easy for that runny yolk.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish
To serve your Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco, place a generous scoop of the fluffy rice on each plate as the base. Top with a hearty beef patty, a cascade of the rich gravy, and finish with a beautifully fried egg perched on top. The layers come together to create a comforting dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Make Ahead Options

The Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the rice, gravy, and beef patties up to 3 days in advance. For best results, store the cooked rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and allow the gravy and patties to cool before refrigerating them separately. This not only keeps them fresh but also allows you to reheat them without compromising flavor. When ready to serve, simply reheat each component in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Top with freshly fried eggs for that delicious, runny yolk that brings the dish together seamlessly—just like in your favorite Hawaiian diner!

What to Serve with Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco

Elevate your Loco Moco experience with delightful side dishes that balance flavors and textures, enhancing your culinary adventure.

Sautéed Vegetables:
Freshly sautéed bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots add a vibrant crunch that complements the rich dish beautifully. The bright colors and crispness contrast perfectly with the savory Loco Moco.
Simple Garden Salad:
A light salad of mixed greens tossed with a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint. This helps cut through the dish’s heartiness while providing a delightful burst of freshness with each bite.
Garlic Fried Rice:
For an extra kick, pair it with garlic fried rice. The aromatic garlic enhances the dish’s savory notes, creating a harmonious fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Sweet Pineapple Salsa:
Brighten your meal with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa. The juicy sweetness contrasts wonderfully with the savory flavors of the Loco Moco, making every bite a tropical delight.
Coconut Sticky Rice:
For a more luxurious feel, serve alongside coconut sticky rice. Its creamy texture paired with the rich, meaty Loco Moco makes for a satisfying and indulgent meal.
Tropical Fruit Salad:
Finish with a refreshing tropical fruit salad featuring mango, kiwi, and papaya. The natural sweetness and acidity provide a palate-cleansing finish, rounding out the meal perfectly.
Cold Brewed Coffee:
Pair your meal with a chilled cup of coffee to keep the vibe relaxed and refreshing. The slight bitterness of coffee balances the richness of the dish, making it a satisfying complement.

Expert Tips for the Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco

Rice Choice: Use medium-grain rice for optimal stickiness. It provides the essential foundation that soaks up the savory flavors beautifully.
No Overcrowding: When cooking patties, ensure the skillet isn’t overcrowded; this helps achieve that perfect sear and keeps them juicy.
Homemade Gravy Bonus: For an even richer flavor, consider making your own beef stock instead of store-bought. It elevates the gravy’s taste immensely.
Egg Perfection: Don’t skip the over-easy egg! The luscious yolk adds an irresistible creamy element that enhances the overall flavor of the Loco Moco.
Substitutions Galore: Feel free to explore different proteins or grains, like turkey or quinoa, making this dish customizable to fit your dietary preferences.

Each of these expert tips promises to guide you toward creating the ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco, ensuring it’s a delightful experience from start to finish!

Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Loco Moco, transforming this comforting classic into something uniquely yours.

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a creamy richness without dairy.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the patties and tamari instead of shoyu to avoid gluten.
Protein Swap: Try using turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat as alternatives to ground beef for lighter options.
Rice Variation: Switch medium grain rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier, nutrient-packed base.
Topping Twist: Add sautéed mushrooms or grilled pineapples for a sweet and savory flavor explosion.
Heat Level: Spice it up with a drizzle of sriracha mayo or your favorite hot sauce for an exciting kick.
Egg Style: Experiment with poached or scrambled eggs instead of fried for a different egg texture and taste.
Flavor Boost: Enhance your gravy with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.

Whether you choose a protein swap or a flavor boost, these variations invite you to make this ultimate comfort dish your own. If you’re looking for more delightful dishes or are curious about incorporating unique ingredients, check out our other recipes and get inspired!

How to Store and Freeze Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco

Fridge: Store individual components—rice, gravy, and patties—in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This keeps everything fresh and flavorful for quick meals.

Freezer: Freeze cooked patties and gravy in separate containers for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a delicious meal.

Reheating: Gently reheat rice in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water. For patties and gravy, warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Assembly Tip: To enjoy the Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco, only combine freshly cooked rice with reheated patties and drizzle with warm gravy right before serving!

Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right rice for Loco Moco?
Absolutely! Using white medium grain rice is key for achieving that perfect sticky and fluffy texture that makes Loco Moco truly delightful. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can opt for brown rice or quinoa for a nutritional twist.

What is the best way to store leftover Loco Moco?
Very good question! Store individual components—rice, gravy, and patties—in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy quick meals without compromising flavor or freshness.

Can I freeze the Loco Moco components?
Definitely! Freeze cooked patties and gravy in separate airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge. For best results, reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.

What should I do if my gravy is too thin?
If your gravy turns out runny, try whisking a bit more cornstarch into a small amount of beef stock and adding it to the gravy over medium heat. Stir constantly until it thickens. This should help get that rich, velvety consistency back!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great point! If you’re serving this dish to guests, keep in mind that it contains beef and eggs, so consider alternatives like turkey or plant-based patties for those with dietary restrictions. Additionally, using gluten-free soy sauce like tamari ensures everyone can enjoy the Loco Moco experience!