Who is the best Amateur Cook in America?

The answer to this question is found in a unique 13-part television series called MasterChef USA. The exciting new second season of this "Olympics of Amateur Cooking" starts airing nationally on public broadcasting stations across the country in Spring 2001.

Each week three of America's best amateur cooks face-off in gleaming stainless steel kitchens. Their task: to cook the best original two course menu, that costs less than $60.00, in only two and a half hours, and move on to the next round of competition. Each week brings them one step closer to winning the Grand Prize of a trip for two to the Cuisinart Resort and Spa on the Island of Anguilla.

The action is directed by host Gary Rhodes, who is helped with the judging on each episode with two special celebrity guest judges: television personalities like comedian Bobby Collins; notable chefs like Michael Chiarello; and famous restaurateurs like Rick Bayless from Frontera Grill in Chicago.

After an impressive first season in which MasterChef USA rocketed to the top ranks of PBS cooking shows, it returns for a new round of culinary contests in April 2001. Check your local listings for the public broadcasting station near you airing the next episode of MasterChef USA.

And don't miss any of thrilling weekly competitions along the road to choosing "the best amateur cook in the country!"

MasterChef USA Season Two Episode Descriptions -->