Are you a comfort food lover looking for a delicious twist on classic diner fare? Look no further than the humble loco moco, a Hawaiian staple that’s gained popularity worldwide. Essentially a hamburger patty topped with a fried egg, gravy, and a scoop of rice, the loco moco is a hearty, satisfying meal that can be customized to suit any taste.
From classic combinations featuring ground beef or Spam, to more adventurous takes incorporating everything from kimchi to meatloaf, there’s a loco moco recipe out there for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore 18 different variations on the theme, from breakfast-inspired twists to seafood-studded creations. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or looking to mix things up with some bold new flavors, we’ve got you covered. So grab a fork and let’s dig in!
Classic Hawaiian Loco Moco with Gravy
Experience the rich flavors of Hawaii’s comfort food classic! This recipe brings together juicy ground beef, creamy rice, and a savory gravy, all topped with a fried egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 eggs
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. In a separate pan, combine ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Assemble the loco moco by placing a scoop of cooked rice on each hamburger bun, topping with a spoonful of the beef mixture, and finishing with a fried egg.
4. Serve immediately, drizzling the gravy over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spam Loco Moco with Fried Egg
Elevate your comfort food game with this mouthwatering Spam Loco Moco dish, featuring a crispy fried egg on top. This sweet and savory fusion is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 1 cup of cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Spam in a pan with butter until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side.
2. In a separate pan, cook the white rice according to package instructions.
3. Top the cooked rice with the Spam slices and drizzle with soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Fry an egg in a separate pan and place it on top of the Spam.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Loco Moco
This Hawaiian-inspired dish combines juicy chicken, savory teriyaki sauce, and creamy rice for a flavorful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups cooked Japanese-style rice
– 4 eggs, beaten
– 1/2 cup diced green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken in a skillet with oil over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add teriyaki sauce to the chicken and simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes.
3. Serve the chicken over cooked rice.
4. Top with a fried egg and garnish with green onions.
5. Cook the egg in a separate skillet with oil over medium heat until the whites are set.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Vegetarian Loco Moco with Mushroom Gravy
Experience the classic Hawaiian dish with a vegetarian twist! This recipe combines savory rice, juicy portobello mushrooms, and rich mushroom gravy for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 2 large portobello mushrooms, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 teaspoons oyster mushroom extract (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine broth, soy sauce, oyster mushroom extract (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Serve cooked rice topped with grilled portobello mushrooms, spooning the mushroom gravy over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kimchi Loco Moco with Spicy Sauce
This recipe combines the classic Hawaiian dish, loco moco, with a spicy kick from Korean-inspired kimchi and sauce. The result is a flavorful and adventurous twist on a comfort food favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy sauce (see below)
– Cooked rice
– Fried egg
Spicy Sauce:
– 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon water
– Garlic and ginger to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a pan until browned, breaking into small pieces.
2. Add chopped kimchi, flour, egg, panko breadcrumbs, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the beef mixture. Mix well.
3. Form patties and cook in a pan for 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Serve loco moco on top of cooked rice with a fried egg and drizzle with Spicy Sauce.
5. Cook Spicy Sauce by whisking all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Shrimp Loco Moco
This recipe combines the classic flavors of loco moco with the savory goodness of garlic shrimp, making it a unique and delicious twist on a comfort food favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 4 hamburger buns (or steamed rice)
– 1 cup beef patty (optional)
– 1/2 cup fried egg (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
2. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger. Pour the mixture into the skillet with the shrimp and stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional minute, then serve on top of hamburger buns (or steamed rice) with beef patty and fried egg (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
BBQ Pork Loco Moco
Experience the fusion of traditional Hawaiian comfort food with a BBQ twist! This sweet and savory dish combines tender pork, fluffy rice, and crispy fried egg for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cooked in BBQ sauce
– 2 cups cooked Japanese-style short-grain rice
– 4 eggs
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: green onions, sesame seeds, or pickled ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pork shoulder in BBQ sauce until tender and shreddable.
2. Prepare Japanese-style short-grain rice according to package instructions.
3. Fry eggs in a non-stick pan with a small amount of vegetable oil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Slice the fried egg into wedges.
5. To assemble, place cooked pork on top of rice, followed by an egg wedge and a sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Loco Moco Burger with Cheese
Get ready for a Hawaiian-inspired twist on the classic burger! This Loco Moco Burger with Cheese combines the rich flavors of beef, cheese, and savory gravy with a fun and playful presentation.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 slices American cheese
– 1/4 cup brown gravy
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles (optional)
– Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Form ground beef into 4 patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness.
3. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns by grilling them lightly or baking in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 minute.
4. Assemble burgers by placing cooked patty on each bun, topping with a slice of cheese, and spooning brown gravy over the top.
5. Sprinkle chopped bacon and add lettuce, tomato, pickles, or sesame seeds if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Breakfast Loco Moco with Portuguese Sausage
Start your day off right with this twist on the classic Hawaiian dish, featuring juicy Portuguese sausage and a runny egg.
Ingredients:
– 4 Portuguese sausages (linguiça), sliced
– 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini)
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Portuguese sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, until browned and crispy.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add condensed cream of mushroom soup and whisk until smooth.
3. Add cooked white rice to the pan and stir until coated with the sauce.
4. Top the rice mixture with sliced Portuguese sausage and mixed mushrooms.
5. Fry an egg in the same skillet used for the sausage.
6. Place the egg on top of the Loco Moco and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kalua Pork Loco Moco
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Kalua pork with the classic comfort food, loco moco. The result is a deliciously unique dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Kalua pork (canned or homemade)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup brown gravy
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat the brown gravy over medium heat. Add the Kalua pork and stir until heated through.
3. Pour the beaten egg into the pan with the Kalua pork mixture. Stir until the egg is cooked through and scrambled.
4. To assemble, place a scoop of rice on a plate, followed by the Kalua pork and egg mixture. Garnish with green onions.
5. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Tofu Loco Moco
A twist on the classic Hawaiian dish, this Spicy Tofu Loco Moco combines crispy tofu, savory beef broth gravy, and a fried egg for a flavor-packed meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns or rice bowls
– Fried eggs for serving
Instructions:
1. Pan-fry the tofu cubes in vegetable oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
2. In a separate pan, cook the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened.
3. Add the beef broth, soy sauce, and gochujang to the pan, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
4. Serve the crispy tofu on top of hamburger buns or rice bowls, spooning the spicy beef broth gravy over the top. Top with a fried egg for added richness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loco Moco with Pineapple Salsa
Classic Hawaiian comfort food gets a sweet and tangy twist with this Loco Moco recipe featuring fresh pineapple salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs, beaten
– Pineapple Salsa (recipe below)
– Buns or plates for serving
Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a pan until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add chopped onion, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir to combine.
3. In a separate pot, cook rice according to package instructions.
4. Assemble Loco Mocos by placing cooked rice in the bottom of a bun or plate, topping with beef mixture, and finishing with a fried egg.
5. Serve with Pineapple Salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf Loco Moco
Elevate the classic comfort food with a Hawaiian twist by wrapping your meatloaf with crispy bacon and serving it on a bed of Japanese rice, topped with a fried egg and savory ketchup.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1 tablespoon ketchup
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Shape into a loaf and wrap with bacon slices.
4. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
6. Fry an egg in a pan and set aside.
7. Assemble by placing the meatloaf on top of Japanese rice, topping with fried egg, and drizzling with ketchup.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Loco Moco Sliders for Parties
Elevate your party game with these bite-sized Loco Moco sliders, inspired by the classic Hawaiian dish. A perfect blend of flavors and textures, these sliders are sure to be a hit with your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup canned pineapple rings, drained
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 slider buns
– Optional toppings: pickled ginger, green onions, and furikake
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Form the ground beef into small patties and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast the slider buns on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Assemble the sliders by placing a beef patty on each bun, followed by a spoonful of white rice, a pineapple ring, and a drizzle of soy sauce and sesame oil.
5. Serve immediately, with optional toppings of your choice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seafood Loco Moco with Crab Cake
Elevate your loco moco game by adding succulent crab cakes to the classic Hawaiian dish. This recipe combines juicy beef, savory seafood, and creamy sauce for a flavorful twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 crab cakes (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef to desired doneness and set aside.
2. In a separate pan, sauté the mixed seafood with a dash of soy sauce until pink and tender.
3. Assemble the loco moco by placing a scoop of cooked rice on the bottom, followed by a layer of beef, then seafood, and finally a crab cake on top.
4. Mix ketchup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and green onions to create the signature sauce. Spoon over the crab cake.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loco Moco Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A creative twist on the classic Hawaiian dish, this Loco Moco Stir-Fry with Vegetables is a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion. By adding a variety of colorful vegetables, you’ll elevate the traditional comfort food to new heights.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey or pork)
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked white rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve the Loco Moco mixture over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Loco Moco Rice Bowl with Avocado
A twist on the classic Hawaiian comfort food, this Loco Moco Rice Bowl with Avocado adds a creamy and nutritious spin. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup ground beef (or alternative protein of your choice)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil to the pan. Stir well.
4. Assemble the Loco Moco by placing cooked rice in a bowl, topping with the beef mixture, and finishing with sliced avocado.
5. Garnish with scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Loco Moco with Pineapple
Take your love of loco moco to the next level with this sweet and sour twist, featuring caramelized pineapple rings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 8 oz cooked white rice
– 2 cups mixed greens (for serving)
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch rings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
3. Form the mixture into 4 patties. Cook in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Meanwhile, caramelize the pineapple rings by cooking them in a separate skillet with a tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 tsp soy sauce over medium-low heat for 5-6 minutes.
5. Assemble the loco moco: place a cooked patty on top of a scoop of white rice, followed by a caramelized pineapple ring.
6. Serve immediately with mixed greens.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a comfort food extravaganza! This article features 18 delicious Loco Moco recipes that will satisfy your cravings. From classic Hawaiian Loco Moco with gravy to innovative variations like Spam Loco Moco with fried egg, Teriyaki Chicken Loco Moco, and more, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to delight. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, or spicy, there’s a Loco Moco recipe on this list that’s perfect for you. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in these comfort food masterpieces!
