If you’re dreaming of warm beaches, island vibes, and delicious comfort food, then Loco Moco Hawaii needs to be on your plate. This hearty Hawaiian dish features a juicy beef patty, placed on a bed of white rice, topped with a runny fried egg, and smothered in rich brown gravy. It’s satisfying, soulful, and rooted deeply in Hawaii’s local food culture.
Whether you’re new to Hawaiian cuisine or just craving something hearty and nostalgic, Loco Moco hits all the right notes—salty, savory, and satisfying.
🌺 What Is Loco Moco?
Loco Moco is a beloved Hawaiian comfort food that originated in the late 1940s in Hilo, Hawaii. It’s said to have been invented by a local diner to feed hungry teenagers something affordable yet filling. The original version included just rice, a hamburger patty, gravy, and egg—but today, you’ll find many variations including bacon, Spam, Portuguese sausage, or even kimchi.
🧂 Ingredients for Loco Moco Hawaii
For the Beef Patty:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For the Gravy:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2–4 fried eggs (sunny side up preferred)
- Chopped scallions or parsley for garnish (optional)
LSI Keywords: Hawaiian rice and gravy dish, loco moco burger rice, traditional island breakfast, Hawaii style comfort food, fried egg beef bowl, gravy over rice meal
👨🍳 How to Make Loco Moco Hawaii – Step-by-Step
✅ Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties
Mix ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Form into 2–4 round patties. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side until fully browned and cooked through. Set aside.
✅ Step 2: Make the Gravy
In the same skillet, melt butter and add flour to create a roux. Stir constantly for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Slowly add beef broth while whisking, then add soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–6 minutes until thickened.
✅ Step 3: Fry the Eggs
In a separate pan, fry the eggs sunny side up or to your liking. The runny yolk adds to the richness of the dish.
✅ Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Scoop white rice onto a plate. Place the beef patty on top, then the fried egg. Generously ladle hot gravy over the entire stack. Garnish if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of macaroni salad or steamed greens for an authentic Hawaiian plate lunch.
- Want extra protein? Top with two eggs or add a second patty.
- Swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a twist.
- Great with grilled pineapple for a sweet island touch.
💡 Pro Tips for a Perfect Loco Moco
- Use ground chuck (80/20) for juicy, flavorful patties.
- Let the gravy thicken properly—thin gravy will run right off the plate.
- For extra umami, stir a bit of mushroom powder or bouillon into the gravy.
- You can prep patties and gravy in advance for quick assembly.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use a premade hamburger patty?
Yes, frozen or store-bought patties work in a pinch, but homemade offers the best flavor.
Q2: Is Loco Moco a breakfast dish or dinner?
Both! It’s served all day in Hawaii—breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Q3: Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Use a plant-based patty and mushroom or vegetable gravy instead of beef.
Q4: How long can I store leftovers?
Store the components separately in airtight containers. They’ll keep in the fridge for 3 days.
Q5: Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids love the combo of rice, meat, egg, and gravy. Just adjust seasonings to keep it mild.
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🎯 Final Thoughts
Loco Moco Hawaii is more than just a meal—it’s a piece of Hawaiian heritage served on a plate. It’s quick, hearty, and satisfying, yet incredibly simple to prepare. The combination of seasoned beef, fluffy rice, rich gravy, and that golden runny yolk is pure comfort.
