Loco Moco is a beloved Hawaiian dish that combines rice, a burger patty, a fried egg, and rich gravy. This comforting meal is a staple in Hawaiian lunch ideas and is perfect for those looking for easy loco moco recipes to try at home.
Whether you’re craving traditional Hawaiian food or want to learn how to make loco moco from scratch, this homemade loco moco recipe will guide you through creating a delicious loco moco rice bowl that embodies island style flavors.
Understanding Loco Moco
Loco Moco is a cherished dish that embodies the spirit of Hawaiian comfort food. This delightful meal combines a mound of fluffy white rice with a juicy burger patty, a sunny-side-up fried egg, and rich brown gravy.
Often enjoyed as a hearty lunch, it’s a staple in Hawaiian lunch ideas and perfect for anyone seeking easy loco moco recipes. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a beloved choice for locals and visitors alike.
Components of a Perfect Loco Moco
The beauty of a Hawaiian loco moco lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. At the base is a generous serving of rice, which serves as the canvas for the other components.
Next, the loco moco burger patty is crafted from ground beef, seasoned to perfection, and cooked until juicy. Topping this is a fried egg, ideally sunny-side-up, allowing the yolk to meld with the other flavors. Finally, a generous drizzle of brown gravy ties everything together, creating a comforting dish that is both satisfying and delicious.
Preparation Tips for Homemade Loco Moco
Creating a homemade loco moco is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients. Start by preparing the burger patties, mixing ground beef with breadcrumbs and seasonings.
Cooking the patties to your desired doneness is key, as this will enhance the overall flavor. Frying the eggs sunny-side-up adds a beautiful presentation and richness when served. Assemble the dish by layering rice, the patty, and the egg, then generously pour the gravy over the top.
Garnishing for Visual Appeal
While the flavors are the star of the show, garnishing your loco moco with chopped green onions adds a pop of color and freshness.
This simple touch not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a slight crunch that complements the dish’s richness. The vibrant green against the warm colors of the rice and gravy creates an inviting plate that is sure to impress.
Serving Suggestions
Loco moco is often enjoyed as a standalone meal, but it can also be paired with tropical sides to enhance the Hawaiian experience.
Consider serving it alongside a refreshing salad or some grilled vegetables for a balanced meal. For those looking to elevate their dining experience, a side of fresh pineapple or a tropical smoothie can complement the flavors beautifully.
Why Loco Moco is a Must-Try
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a representation of Hawaiian culture and culinary tradition. The combination of rice, a burger patty, fried egg, and gravy creates a comforting bowl that resonates with many.
Whether you’re craving traditional Hawaiian food or simply want to try something new, learning how to make loco moco is a rewarding experience. It’s a dish that brings people together, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Delicious Loco Moco with Gravy

This loco moco features a juicy loco moco burger patty served over a bed of fluffy rice, topped with a perfectly fried egg and smothered in savory gravy. The recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people, making it an ideal choice for a hearty Hawaiian lunch.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked white rice
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large eggs for frying
- 2 cups brown gravy (store-bought or homemade)
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Burger Patties: In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into 4 equal patties.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the burger patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked to your liking.
- Fry the Eggs: In another skillet, fry the eggs sunny-side up or to your preference.
- Assemble the Loco Moco: In a serving bowl, place a scoop of cooked rice, top with a burger patty, and then add a fried egg on top.
- Add Gravy: Pour warm brown gravy over the entire dish, ensuring the rice and patty are well covered.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped green onions if desired and serve immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Calories: 600kcal
- Fat: 35g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
