Meet the Season 2 Contestants: Mike

Michael Thomas (Cleveland, Ohio) is a special education teacher who wants his students to learn how to cook and be self-sufficient. Growing up, Michael spent most of his time with his mother and grandmother, and his connection to food comes from watching the women in his life cook favorite Southern recipes. While his family is from Mississippi, Michael now resides in the Midwest with his wife and three kids.

As a father, he connects with his children in the kitchen and shares his love for cooking with family recipes. Michael also runs a small catering business, employing his fellow special education teachers to help with events. Michael cooks Southern homestyle cuisine. His flavors are rooted in rich, Southern ingredients with added hints of his Midwest style. His signature recipe is Shrimp and Grits with bacon, ham, green onions, and vegetables.

Mike’s Recipes

Meet the Contestants

Meet the Host and Judges

Alejandra Ramos

Alejandra is a television host, TODAY Show contributor, and writer. Known for her vibrant, playful culinary point of view, and passion for style both in and out of the kitchen, Alejandra’s ability to inspire in a way that is fun and approachable has made her a favorite with audiences nationwide. READ MORE

Tiffany Derry

Tiffany Derry is a judge on The Great American Recipe. The Texas native is the founder of Tiffany Derry Concepts and co-founder of T2D Concepts, the Texas-based purpose-driven hospitality group behind Roots Chicken Shak, Roots Southern Table and ‘Shef Tiffany spice and apparel line. READ MORE

Leah Cohen

Leah Cohen is a judge on The Great American Recipe. Leah is the chef and owner of acclaimed New York City restaurant Pig & Khao on the Lower East Side. A 2013 StarChefs Rising Stars Award recipient, Leah’s Filipino upbringing and annual expeditions to the region are reflected in her cooking philosophy, which stays true to authentic Southeast Asian flavors while incorporating classical western techniques. READ MORE

Graham Elliot

Graham Elliot is a judge on The Great American Recipe. He is a self-described “navy brat,” has traveled the world and all 50 states, sparking an intense interest in food which led him to attend Johnson & Wales University. READ MORE