Help us celebrate the winners of the 2025 K12 National Cook-Off!

The heat was on—and our young chefs delivered! The 2025 K12 National Cook-Off brought together some of the most promising culinary talents in grades 6–12 from across the country for an unforgettable showdown.

1st Place Winner: Isla, a talented 9th grader from Texas Virtual Academy at Hallsville (TVAH), wowed the judges and took home the top prize of $1,000.

People’s Choice Winner: Stella, a 9th grader from Golden Valley Charter School, stole the hearts of the public, earning 195 votes and a $250 prize.

In the in-person finals, the top five contestants faced two high-pressure rounds—an entrée round and a dessert round. But there was a twist: before cooking, each finalist drew a card from a hat to reveal their required ingredients.

Isla’s Mouthwatering Creations

Isla drew lamb chops, sweet potatoes, carrots, and Bartlett pears for the entrée round. She grilled the lamb chops to perfection, paired them with creamy mashed sweet potatoes, roasted carrots, and a refreshing fresh pear salad.

For the dessert round, Isla drew peaches and made a delicate crepe cake layered with sweet peaches.

Stella’s Mouthwatering Creations

Stella drew beef tenderloin, Yukon Gold potatoes, brussels sprouts, and pineapple for the entrée round. She seared tender beef in butter and rosemary, blanched and pan-fried brussels sprouts, and crisped slices of potato and pineapple for a flavorful twist.

For the dessert round, Stella drew blueberries and made a beautiful blueberry tart topped with a golden caramel garnish.

We couldn’t be prouder of Isla and Stella! Their skill, creativity, and dedication show exactly what our students can achieve with talent and hard work. We can’t wait to see where their culinary journeys take them next.

Watch the episodes and check out the dishes from the other finalists.

Follow @k12.student to stay up to date on all K12 competitions and activities.

Questions? Email us at: [email protected]