Four simple parts get stacked here, so each one has to pull its weight: fresh-ground beef, sticky rice, a real pan gravy, and a runny-yolk egg. Build the gravy right in the burger pan, off the browned fond. That way it tastes of the beef and not of a packet.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep15 min
Cook20 min
Makes4 servings
CuisineHawaiian
Cost$$$
Dairy-free
Contains eggs · gluten · soy
Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Ground beef
A fresh 80/20 grind makes a juicy patty and leaves the fond the gravy is built on.
Cook the riceSteam short-grain rice until sticky and keep it warm; it is the base of every plate.
Cook the pattiesForm four loose patties, season, and sear in a hot skillet 3 minutes a side to 155F; set aside and leave the fond.
Build the gravySoften onion in the drippings, stir in 2 tbsp flour, cook 1 minute, then whisk in broth and soy sauce and simmer to a spoon-coating gravy.
Fry the eggsIn a second pan, fry eggs sunny-side up so the yolks stay runny.
StackMound rice, set a patty on top, flood with gravy, and crown with the fried egg so the yolk runs into everything.
Can you make Loco Moco in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Loco Moco? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Loco Moco ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Loco Moco gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
Is Loco Moco vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
Cooked it? Changed something that worked? Leave a note for the next person — first-name basis, no account.
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