Budget-Friendly Loco Moco

This budgetfriendly loco moco gives you all the cozy comfort of the classic Hawaiian dish without stretching your grocery bill. Juicy seasoned beef patties, rich oniony gravy, fluffy rice, and a runny fried egg make every bite hearty and satisfying. It is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, lazy weekend brunch, or any time you are craving serious comfort food.

I first tried this recipe on a busy weeknight, and now it’s a goto when I want something quick yet comforting. Every time I make it, the family gathers around the table eager to dig in.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: one pound for juicy, flavorful patties choose freshly ground meat from a trusted butcher for the best taste
• Garlic powder: adds subtle aroma and depth fresh or greatquality dried works fine
• Onion powder: enhances the savory profile pick a fragrant and potent brand
• Salt: for seasoning and bringing out flavors use fine sea salt or kosher salt
• Black pepper: freshly cracked gives a gentle heat and complexity
• Unsalted butter: two tablespoons to create a smooth rich gravy opt for highquality butter for better silkiness
• Allpurpose flour: two tablespoons for thickening the gravy sift before use to avoid lumps
• Beef broth: two cups for a robust and meaty base homemade or low sodium packaged broth works best
• Soy sauce: one tablespoon boosts umami and saltiness choose naturally brewed for the cleanest flavor
• Worcestershire sauce: half a teaspoon adds tang and savory notes this small addition elevates the gravy
• Longgrain white rice: two cups cooked provides the fluffy base rinse before cooking to keep grains separate
• Large eggs: two cooked with runny yolks to finish the dish fresh eggs deliver the best texture and flavor

Instructions

Season and shape the beef patties:

In a medium bowl combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix gently until the seasonings are evenly distributed without overworking the meat which could make the patties tough. Divide the mixture into two equal portions and flatten each into a wide patty about threequarters inch thick. Setting the patties aside on a plate allows them to hold their shape during cooking.

Brown the patties:

Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. If the pan is not nonstick, add a light drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for four to five minutes per side without pressing them down so that they brown evenly and stay juicy inside. Once they reach a nice golden crust and the internal temperature is safe, transfer the patties onto a warmed plate and tent loosely with foil to keep warm while you make the gravy.

Make the beef gravy:

Lower the heat to mediumlow and add the butter to the same skillet creating a wonderful base flavored by the drippings. Let the butter melt completely. Whisk in the flour and stir constantly for about two minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color indicating the raw flour taste has cooked out. Slowly pour in the beef broth in a steady stream while whisking to avoid lumps. Add the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for three to five minutes until it coats the back of a spoon thickly.

Cook the eggs:

Heat a separate nonstick skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil or butter. Crack in the eggs and cook to your preference. Traditional loco moco often uses sunnyside up or over easy eggs so the runny yolk mixes beautifully with the gravy and rice.

Assemble the loco moco bowls:

If the cooked rice needs reheating, warm it in a pan or microwave. Divide the fluffy rice between two shallow bowls or plates. Place a hot beef patty on top of each rice mound. Spoon a generous amount of the velvety gravy over the patties, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Finally, top each serving with a fried egg. Serve immediately while everything is steaming hot and savory.

This dish is a beautiful harmony of textures and flavors that always feels like a special treat. My favorite part has to be the gravy thick, savory, and rich with a hint of umami that ties everything together.

Storage Tips

Store leftover cooked patties, gravy, and rice in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. When reheating warm the rice and patties gently to keep them from drying out and reheat the gravy on the stove while stirring to maintain its smooth consistency. The eggs are best cooked fresh for each serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground beef can be swapped with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version while still maintaining good flavor. White rice can be replaced with brown rice or even quinoa for different textures and additional nutrients. Butter used in the gravy can be switched out with a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil if needed though this slightly changes the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve loco moco with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple crisp salad to balance the richness. Add sliced green onions or pickled ginger on top for an extra burst of freshness and pair it with a cold pineapple juice or a light lager for a well rounded dining experience.

Timing the eggs to finish just as the gravy is ready ensures everything comes together piping hot. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ What cuts of beef work best for the patties?

Ground beef with moderate fat content is ideal to keep patties juicy and flavorful without excess grease.

→ How can I make the gravy thicker or thinner?

Adjust gravy thickness by slowly adding broth or water to thin it, or simmer longer to thicken for a richer coating consistency.

→ Can I use other proteins besides beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a leaner option with a mild savory flavor.

→ What’s the best way to cook the eggs?

Sunny-side up or over easy eggs complement the dish well, providing a runny yolk that enriches each bite.

→ How to add extra flavor to the rice?

Toast the cooked rice lightly in a pan with a bit of butter or oil before assembling to add a subtle nutty aroma.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare patties and gravy in advance, then reheat gently and cook eggs fresh to maintain texture and flavor.