Imagine a dish that captures the heart and soul of Hawaiian comfort food – that’s our Hawaiian Loco Moco Recipe! It combines a juicy beef patty, rich gravy, perfectly cooked rice, and a sunny-side-up egg.
Our easy loco moco recipe is more than just a meal – it’s a culinary adventure to Hawaii’s beautiful beaches. It’s perfect for both seasoned home cooks and those new to international cuisines.
Experience island flavors beyond the beaches by pairing your Loco Moco with our savory Shrimp Fried Rice recipe. It brings extra tropical flair to your meal and is just as easy to prepare for a weeknight dinner!
Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant. We’ll guide you through making this mouthwatering Hawaiian classic.
Key Takeaways
- Discover an authentic Hawaiian comfort food classic
- Learn how to create a restaurant-quality loco moco at home
- Master the perfect combination of beef, rice, gravy, and egg
- Explore the rich culinary traditions of Hawaiian cuisine
- Impress your family with an easy and delicious international recipe
What Makes Loco Moco a Beloved Hawaiian Comfort Food

Explore the tasty world of loco moco, a beloved Hawaiian dish. It’s more than a meal; it’s a journey of island creativity and cultural mix.
Origins of the Traditional Hawaiian Dish
Loco moco started in the late 1940s on Hawaii’s island. Teenagers at the Lincoln Grill in Hilo wanted a filling, affordable meal. They mixed white rice, a hamburger, and gravy, topped with an egg.
Cultural Significance in Island Cuisine
Loco moco is more than food; it’s a sign of Hawaiian cultural diversity. It combines American burgers, Japanese rice, and local ingredients.
Modern-Day Popularity
Loco moco has grown from a simple dish to a global favorite. Restaurants around the world celebrate its flavors and simplicity. It brings people together with its delicious taste!
Interested in exploring more international classics? Our Authentic Italian Osso Buco recipe offers a whole new world of rich flavors, giving your home cooking repertoire a delicious twist.
Essential Ingredients for an Authentic Hawaiian Loco Moco Recipe

Making a real loco moco recipe begins with picking the right stuff. This classic Hawaiian dish needs a few key things to turn simple parts into a tasty meal!
To make the best hawaiian loco moco, you’ll need these important ingredients:
- Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 ground chuck for juicy, flavorful patties
- White rice (short-grain recommended)
- Large fresh eggs
- Beef broth
- Flour for gravy thickening
- Butter
- Salt and pepper
Quality ground beef is key! Go for fresh, high-grade meat with good marbling. The fat makes the patties tender and juicy, making loco moco so good.
Pro tip: Local Hawaiian chefs recommend using Maui-style sweet onions for an extra burst of flavor in your gravy!
Our authentic loco moco recipe uses fresh, simple ingredients. They come together to make a dish that’s truly amazing. Don’t stress about getting it perfect. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and warm flavors!
Mastering the Perfect Beef Patty for Your Loco Moco

Making a great loco moco burger patty is an art. It can make your dish truly stand out! We’re going to share the secrets of making the tastiest beef patties. These will take your loco moco from good to amazing.
Selecting the Right Meat Blend
The key to a fantastic loco moco burger patty is the meat. We suggest using ground chuck with an 80/20 meat-to-fat ratio. This mix gives you:
- Rich, juicy flavor
- Optimal texture
- Ideal moisture content
Seasoning Secrets for Maximum Flavor
To turn a simple beef patty into a flavor bomb, you need the right seasoning. Our top loco moco burger patty recipe includes:
- Kosher salt
- Fresh ground black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Worcestershire sauce
Cooking Temperature Guidelines
Getting the patty cooked just right is key for the best loco moco. Here are the temperature guidelines:
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 140-145°F
- Medium-well: 150-155°F
Pro tip: Always let your patty rest for 5-7 minutes after cooking. This helps keep those juices in!
For safe and delicious results, always cook your burger patties until they reach the proper temperature—the CDC recommends 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.
Creating Rich and Savory Mushroom Gravy From Scratch
Making the perfect gravy loco moco starts with the right mushroom sauce. Our recipe will make your dish unforgettable!
Choosing the right mushrooms is key. We suggest a mix of:
- Cremini mushrooms for deep, earthy flavor
- Shiitake mushrooms for umami complexity
- Button mushrooms for classic texture
To make silky-smooth gravy, master the roux technique. Start by melting butter and whisking in flour until it’s golden. This makes your loco moco taste like it’s from a restaurant!
“A great gravy can transform an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.” – Professional Chef’s Wisdom
For perfect mushroom gravy, slowly add warm beef stock while whisking. This avoids lumps and gives a smooth texture. Your loco moco will stand out!
Seasoning is crucial. A pinch of fresh thyme, black pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce can make your gravy amazing. Remember, patience is the secret to the best mushroom gravy!
The Art of Cooking Perfect Rice for Loco Moco
Rice is key to a great loco moco rice bowl. Learning to cook perfect rice can make your dish go from good to amazing! We’ll show you how to make that fluffy rice base.
Selecting Your Rice Wisely
Choosing the right rice is important for a traditional Hawaiian loco moco. We suggest using:
- Short-grain white rice
- Calrose rice
- Japanese-style medium-grain rice
Nailing the Perfect Rice-to-Water Ratio
Finding the right water ratio is key for your loco moco rice bowl. Here’s how to do it:
- Measure 1 cup of rice
- Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear
- Use 1.25 cups of water per cup of rice
- Let rice rest after cooking for 10-15 minutes
Fluffing Techniques for Irresistible Texture
After cooking your rice, use a rice paddle or fork to fluff it. This stops clumping and makes the rice light and airy.
Pro tip: Let your rice sit covered for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This helps the moisture spread evenly, making your rice taste like it’s from a restaurant!
How to Fry the Perfect Sunny-Side-Up Egg
Making the perfect sunny-side-up egg is key to a great loco moco recipe. The right way to fry an egg can make your dish go from good to amazing!
Here are the egg-frying secrets to make your Hawaiian dish stand out:
- Choose fresh, high-quality eggs at room temperature for best results
- Select a non-stick pan or well-seasoned cast-iron skillet
- Use medium-low heat to prevent burning
“The perfect egg is all about patience and precision!” – Professional Chef’s Tip
For your loco moco recipe with fried egg, follow these steps:
- Warm your pan with a light coating of butter or oil
- Crack the egg gently into the pan
- Cook until the white is set but the yolk remains gloriously runny
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper
Pro tip: To get that perfect sunny-side-up egg, cover the pan briefly with a lid. This helps the top of the egg white set without flipping. Your classic loco moco recipe deserves nothing less than egg perfection!
Step-by-Step Hawaiian Loco Moco Recipe
Ready to make a homemade loco moco that feels like a Hawaiian breakfast? Our easy recipe will show you how to make this dish with confidence.
Let’s break down this tasty Hawaiian breakfast into simple steps. You’ll be cooking like a pro in no time!
Preparation Time and Serving Details
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 2-3 people
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Assembly Instructions
- Prepare white rice as your base
- Form beef patties with your chosen meat blend
- Cook patties to medium-rare perfection
- Create rich mushroom gravy
- Fry eggs sunny-side up
Plating Techniques
Our loco moco recipe is not just about taste. It’s also about making it look great! Start with fluffy rice as the base. Place a perfectly cooked beef patty on top, then add warm mushroom gravy. Finish with a sunny-side-up egg.
“A great loco moco is an art form that celebrates Hawaiian culinary tradition!” – Hawaiian Cooking Enthusiasts
Pro tip: Make sure each part is warm when you put your homemade loco moco together. This will give you the best Hawaiian breakfast!
Innovative Variations and Modern Twists
Ready to get creative in the kitchen? These exciting twists on the classic island-style loco moco recipe are sure to delight. The traditional loco moco is a beloved part of Hawaiian cuisine. But, there’s always room for new flavors that will make your taste buds happy.
Let’s dive into some tasty variations that turn this classic dish into something new:
- Seafood Lover’s Loco Moco: Try using fresh shrimp or grilled fish instead of beef patties for a sea-inspired twist
- Vegetarian Delight: Use a plant-based patty or a grilled portobello mushroom to make it meat-free
- Gourmet Breakfast Remix: Add crispy bacon and hash browns for a rich breakfast version
- Spicy Fusion: Add jalapeños or sriracha sauce for a spicy kick
Looking for a loco moco hangover cure? Add extra protein and fresh ingredients. A big version with more eggs and greens can really help you feel better!
Choosing lean ground beef helps keep the dish hearty but lighter. The UR Medicine guide explains the ins and outs of beef patty nutrition facts.
Pro tip: Don’t be shy to try new things! Loco moco is all about being creative. Each new version tells a story, celebrating Hawaii’s food culture and inviting your own creativity.
Conclusion
Our journey through the best Hawaiian loco moco recipe has been a delightful exploration. It’s a celebration of Hawaiian cuisine that brings the islands to your table. Every bite tells a story of tradition and taste.
We invite you to become your own chef and make this recipe your own. Try different meat blends, unique gravy variations, or add your own touches. The beauty of loco moco is in its versatility and joy it brings to any meal.
Cooking is an adventure of flavor and passion. Our guide is just the start of your culinary journey. We can’t wait to hear about your kitchen adventures and how you’ve made this dish your own. Grab your skillet, channel your inner island chef, and let the cooking begin!
Aloha and happy cooking!
For those who love comfort food classics, add variety to your table with our crispy Chicken Fried Steak or irresistible Easy Slutty Brownie recipe for dessert. They both capture that homemade satisfaction you’ll crave after your Loco Moco feast!

Hawaiian Loco Moco Recipe
Short Description
Discover the ultimate comfort food from Hawaii! This easy Hawaiian Loco Moco recipe brings together a juicy beef patty, savory gravy, perfectly cooked rice, and a sunny-side-up egg. Perfect for family meals or casual gatherings, it’s a delicious taste of the islands in every bite.
Recipe Details
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients per Serving
- 1 cup cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- 1/3 lb ground beef patty
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup brown gravy (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tsp cooking oil
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: approx. 600 per bowl
- Protein: 27g
- Carbs: 57g
- Fats: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 3g
Instructions
Step 1
Cook your rice according to package directions, then keep warm.
Step 2
Form the ground beef into a patty. Season with salt and pepper. Heat the cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the beef patty until browned and cooked through (about 4 minutes per side).
Step 3
Remove the patty and keep warm. In the same skillet, pour in your gravy and heat gently until hot.
Step 4
In a small pan, heat a little oil and cook the egg sunny-side up until the whites are just set but the yolk remains runny.
Step 5
To plate, scoop hot rice into a bowl, add the beef patty on top, cover with warm gravy, and finish with the fried egg. Sprinkle with green onions if desired.




