As I savored each bite, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of comfort wash over me. The Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate, blending juicy hamburger patties, creamy brown gravy, fluffy rice, and the undeniable magic of a perfectly cooked over-easy egg. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this protein-rich dish wraps you in its hearty goodness, offering a satisfying escape from the routine of fast food. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, Loco Moco invites you to customize and explore with delightful variations. Are you ready to create a delicious memory with this Hawaiian classic?

Why choose Hawaiian Loco Moco?

Comforting and Hearty: This dish is a warm hug on a plate, combining fluffy rice, juicy hamburger patties, and rich gravy in every satisfying bite.
Ideal for Any Meal: Breakfast, lunch, or dinner—this versatile dish satisfies cravings at any time of day.
Customization Galore: Feel free to swap protein or add toppings like grilled onions or avocado to suit your taste.
Quick Preparation: This recipe is perfect for busy nights, letting you whip up a comforting meal in no time.
Protein-Packed Delight: With over 52g of protein per serving, the Hawaiian Loco Moco fuels your day without the fast food guilt.

Hawaiian Loco Moco Ingredients

• Discover what makes this dish a beloved comfort food!

For the Rice

Medium Grain Rice – The base of the dish, providing a fluffy, slightly sticky texture; opt for brown rice for added health benefits.

For the Gravy

Beef Stock – Creates the flavorful gravy; use vegetable stock for a vegetarian alternative.
Cornstarch – Thickens the gravy to perfection; arrowroot can be a suitable substitute if needed.
Onion Powder – Adds depth to the gravy; fresh sautéed onions impart a brighter flavor.
Shoyu (Soy Sauce) – Provides umami; tamari works well as a gluten-free option.
Beef Bouillon Paste – Intensifies beef flavor; omit if using liquid beef stock.
Heavy Cream – Enhances richness in the gravy; feel free to substitute with milk or non-dairy cream.

For the Burger Patties

Ground Beef – The star protein in this dish; ground turkey or plant-based meat can be used if desired.
Egg – Completes the dish with richness; replace with a tofu scramble for a vegan version.

For Cooking

Cooking Oil – Ideal for frying eggs; choose a neutral oil like canola or coconut.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance flavor; adjust to your taste preferences.

With these key ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a delectable Hawaiian Loco Moco that will leave everyone at your table coming back for seconds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Loco Moco

Step 1: Cook the Rice
Begin by rinsing 1 cup of medium-grain rice thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. Next, add the rinsed rice to a rice cooker along with the appropriate amount of water (typically 1.5 cups). Set the cooker to cook, and in about 20 minutes, you’ll have fluffy rice ready to be the base of your Hawaiian Loco Moco.

Step 2: Make the Gravy
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of beef stock, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 2 tablespoons of shoyu, and 1 tablespoon of beef bouillon paste. Cook over medium heat, whisking continuously, until the gravy thickens, approximately 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, mix well, and set the gravy aside to keep warm.

Step 3: Prepare the Burger Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1 egg, ¼ cup of panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. Mix until just combined and shape the mixture into 4 equal patties. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

Step 4: Cook the Eggs
In a separate non-stick frying pan, heat a teaspoon of cooking oil over medium heat. Crack in 4 large eggs, being careful not to break the yolks, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the egg whites are set but yolks remain slightly runny for that perfect over-easy style, which complements the Hawaiian Loco Moco beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble the Loco Moco
To assemble your Hawaiian Loco Moco, start by placing a generous scoop of the fluffy rice on a plate. Top it with one of the delicious hamburger patties, then pour a hearty helping of the savory gravy over the patty. Finally, add the perfectly cooked over-easy egg on top, allowing the yolk to add an extra layer of richness to this comforting dish. Serve immediately for the best flavor and experience!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Loco Moco

Rice Texture: Ensure your rice is rinsed thoroughly until the water runs clear for a fluffy, non-sticky base in your Hawaiian Loco Moco.
Gravy Consistency: Don’t rush the gravy; allow it to simmer gently to develop deep flavors, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
Egg Cooking: Use a non-stick pan for frying the eggs and avoid distractions to prevent overcooking; aim for that perfect over-easy yolk to elevate your Loco Moco.
Uniform Patties: Shape your burger patties evenly for consistent cooking, preventing any of them from being undercooked or overdone.
Taste as You Go: Always adjust seasonings like salt and pepper to your preference throughout the cooking process, ensuring your Hawaiian Loco Moco is perfectly tailored to your taste.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Loco Moco components are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy days! You can cook the rice and the burger patties up to 3 days in advance; simply allow them to cool before refrigerating in airtight containers. The gravy can also be prepared ahead and stored for up to 2 days—just reheat gently on the stove before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your Loco Moco, all that’s left is frying the eggs fresh for that delightful richness. Assembling the dish takes mere moments, allowing you to savor this comforting meal without the last-minute rushing!

Hawaiian Loco Moco Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to mix things up and turn your Hawaiian Loco Moco into a dish that’s uniquely yours, bursting with flavors and surprises!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream in the gravy instead of heavy cream for a rich, tropical flavor. It adds a delightful creaminess while keeping things light!
Porky Twist: Swap the ground beef patty for Portuguese sausage or even crispy Spam for a deliciously local flair. Both options add a savory depth that’s so comforting.
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute with a veggie burger or mushroom patties for a satisfying plant-based option that everyone can enjoy. You won’t even miss the meat!
Rice Alternative: Consider quinoa or cauliflower rice for a fresh, nutritious base. They bring unique flavors and textures to balance the heartiness of the dish.
Herbed Gravy: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the gravy for an aromatic twist. A little fresh herb action can elevate your Loco Moco to gourmet levels!
Kick it Up: Introduce spicy elements like sriracha or chili garlic sauce into the gravy for a delightful heat. This adds a zing that pairs perfectly with the creamy egg.
Topping Variations: Elevate your dish by adding toppings like avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or crispy fried onions. These will not only enhance flavor but also provide a crunchy texture.
Egg Substitution: For a vegan option, replace the egg with a tofu scramble or avocado for creaminess without the animal products. Both options deliver wonderful texture while keeping it cruelty-free.

Explore these variations to create delightful new memories with every bite of your Hawaiian Loco Moco! And if you’re looking for more ways to spice up your meals, check out my easy homemade gravies or dive into some scrumptious breakfast alternatives. Enjoy your culinary journey!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Loco Moco

Fridge: Store leftover Hawaiian Loco Moco in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the rice and patties fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked components separately (rice, patties, and gravy) in airtight bags for up to 3 months; reheat thoroughly when ready to serve.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the microwave or on the stove until heated through, ensuring flavors are nicely revived.

Meal Prep Tip: Consider preparing the elements in advance and storing them separately, allowing for quick assembly during busy weeknights.

What to Serve with Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the rich flavors and textures of this comforting dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture pairs excellently with savory gravy, providing a velvety counterpart to the heartiness of Loco Moco.
Garlic Butter Broccoli: This vibrant green addition balances the meal with freshness and crunch, bringing a pop of color and nutrients.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted to caramelized perfection, these sweet wedges add a flavorful contrast, enhancing the sweet-savory harmony of the dish.
Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of pineapple, mango, and kiwi brings a hint of sweetness, cleansing the palate after each satisfying bite.
Coleslaw: The crunch of this tangy salad offers a refreshing crunch, making each bite of Loco Moco even more enjoyable.
Iced Lemonade: The zesty citrus refreshment provides a bright balance to the rich flavors, making it the perfect beverage companion for this hearty meal.
Coconut Rice Pudding: For dessert, this sweet treat mirrors the tropical notes of Loco Moco, offering a deliciously creamy finish to the meal.
Furikake Popcorn: A fun and savory snack that carries umami flavors, perfect for sharing as a light appetizer before the main event.

Hawaiian Loco Moco Recipe FAQs

What is the best type of rice to use for Hawaiian Loco Moco?
Medium grain rice is ideal for Hawaiian Loco Moco, as it provides the perfect fluffy and slightly sticky texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, brown rice can also work beautifully, adding a nutty flavor and a bit more fiber to the dish.

How should I store leftover Hawaiian Loco Moco?
You can store leftover Hawaiian Loco Moco in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the best taste and texture, keep the components (rice, patties, gravy, and eggs) separate if possible.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Loco Moco?
Absolutely! For optimal storage, freeze the cooked components separately—rice, patties, and gravy—using airtight bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and then heat thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave.

How do I prevent the gravy from becoming lumpy?
To avoid lumps in your gravy, whisk the cornstarch thoroughly with the beef stock before heating. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens. If it does start to lump, you can strain it through a fine mesh sieve to smooth it out before serving.

Are there any dietary considerations for Hawaiian Loco Moco?
Yes! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, you can easily modify this recipe. For a gluten-free version, replace shoyu (soy sauce) with tamari. If you need it to be dairy-free, opt for a non-dairy cream in the gravy. For plant-based eaters, ground beef can be substituted with a meat alternative or tofu scramble for the eggs.

What if I don’t have all the ingredients on hand?
No worries! The beauty of Hawaiian Loco Moco is its flexibility. If you can’t find fresh onion, feel free to use onion powder as a substitute. If you’re short on beef stock, vegetable stock will work in the gravy, and you can get creative by using different protein like grilled chicken or fried spam for the patties. The more the merrier!