Episode 1
A late-night snack theme yields cheesy loaded potato bites, Philly cheesesteak wontons and creamy Tuscan salmon pasta. Guest judge: Kristen Kish.
Episode 2
Date night comes to the kitchen with an array of aphrodisiac appetizers and wildly reimagined beef Wellingtons. Guest judge: Derrell Smith.
Episode 3
It's a battle of the moms with kid-friendly eats, from a cat-shaped broccoli cheddar waffle to chocolatey cupcakes. Guest judge: Jacques Torres.
Episode 4
Contestants cook up festive cheer and big flavors with no-bake desserts and a Thanksgiving dinner made in under 75 minutes. Guest judge: Alyse Whitney.
Episode 5
The most important meal of the day gets all the love with waffle rancheros, breakfast pizza and a savory Dutch baby. Guest judge: Kat Kinsman.
Episode 6
Contestants cook a flattened pork loin with a hotel iron and other on-the-go hacks in a series of vacation-themed battles. Guest judge: Alisa Reynolds.
Episode 7
A tricky two-round poultry challenge spawns homey dishes like Cajun pasta, pollo guisado and "hillbilly" chicken piccata. Guest judge: Monti Carlo.
Episode 8
Creative cooks ring in the new year with decadent finger foods, then use luxurious ingredients to make an entree and a dessert. Guest judge: Ilan Hall.
