Loco Moco (Hawaiian Lunch)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love Loco Moco because it’s the definition of comfort in a bowl. The juicy beef patty is perfectly seasoned and cooked, the gravy is rich and savory, and the sunny-side-up egg adds a deliciously runny yolk that enhances every bite. The combination of flavors and textures is absolutely irresistible, and it’s so satisfying. Whether I’m making it for lunch or dinner, this dish always feels like a special treat, and it’s super filling!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 2 cups beef stock

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for flavor)

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for richness)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups steamed white rice (for serving)

• 4 large eggs (for frying)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying the patties and eggs)

Directions

1. Make the beef patties: I start by dividing the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shaping them into patties. Then, I season the patties with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Cook the beef patties: In a large skillet, I heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. I add the patties to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until they’re browned and cooked through. Once cooked, I remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Make the gravy: In the same skillet, I add the beef stock, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. I bring the mixture to a simmer and cook it for about 5 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken. If I want it thicker, I can make a slurry with a tablespoon of cornstarch and water and stir it into the gravy. I season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Fry the eggs: In a separate pan, I heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. I carefully crack the eggs into the pan, cooking them sunny-side-up until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny. If I prefer my eggs cooked more, I can flip them over for a minute or two to make them over-easy.

5. Assemble the Loco Moco: On a plate, I place a generous scoop of steamed rice. Then, I top the rice with a beef patty, pour the gravy over the patty, and finally, crown it with a fried egg.

6. Serve: I serve this Hawaiian comfort dish hot and enjoy every delicious bite!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken: If I want a leaner option, I can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.

• Add vegetables: I can serve the Loco Moco with a side of sautéed veggies like spinach or bell peppers to add more nutrition to the dish.

• Cheese: I could sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top of the patty for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I can microwave the rice and patty, then top with fresh gravy and a newly fried egg for the best texture. If I prefer, I can reheat everything in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little extra gravy to keep everything moist.

FAQs

Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the gravy in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, I just need to heat it up and pour it over the patties and rice.

Can I make the beef patties in advance?

Absolutely! I can shape the beef patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to cook, I can simply fry them up.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, while traditional Loco Moco uses white rice, I could use brown rice or even jasmine rice for a slightly different flavor and texture.

How do I make the egg “over-easy”?

To make the egg over-easy, I can carefully flip the sunny-side-up egg once the whites are set and cook for another 1-2 minutes for a softer yolk.

Is Loco Moco traditionally served with any toppings?

Loco Moco is often served with a side of crispy fried onions or a garnish of green onions for extra flavor, though it’s just as delicious without them.

Conclusion

Loco Moco is a true Hawaiian comfort meal that combines the flavors of juicy beef, rich gravy, and a perfectly fried egg over rice. It’s hearty, filling, and incredibly satisfying, making it the ultimate comfort food. Whether I’m craving something indulgent for lunch or dinner, this dish always hits the spot, and it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends too!

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