Gordon Ramsay’s MasterChef Alum Chef Kolby is Stirring Up Fresh Recipes for Back to School
Image Credit: Master Chef
Chef Kolby “Kolby Kash” Chandler is redefining what it means to bring flavor to the table. With over 1.5 million social media followers, the Houston-born chef—who first captured hearts as a contestant on MasterChef under the fiery mentorship of Gordon Ramsay—is now serving up more than meals: he’s building a lifestyle brand steeped in Southern Creole soul, modern family hacks, and undeniable style.
“Being a part of MasterChef was truly one of the best experiences of my life,” Chandler reflects. “That high-pressure environment and Gordon Ramsay’s personal instruction—it’s a chapter I’ll never forget.”
Now, as the school year kicks back into gear, Chef Kolby is sharing recipes designed for busy parents, kids, and college students alike—bringing his trademark Creole spin to the season’s most comforting dishes.
Three Must-Try Recipes for the School Year
School Lunches: Pizza Bagels
The crowd-pleaser kids can actually help make. Kolby’s take makes it both fun and filling.
Family Dinners: Creole Salmon & Grits
A 30-minute masterpiece that warms the heart, rich with Southern flavor.
College Nights: Easy Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry
Fast, hearty, and made for first apartments—no delivery needed.
Cooking in Style: Fashionable Aprons for Every Kitchen
Because culinary creativity deserves couture, Chef Kolby insists that the right apron is as essential as the right seasoning. Here are our editor-approved picks for fashionable cooking aprons that will make you feel runway-ready in the kitchen:
Hedley & Bennett Crossback Apron – The cult favorite worn by chefs and home cooks alike. Sleek, durable, and comes in bold colors.
Shop here
Williams Sonoma Italian Linen Apron – Minimalist luxury, with breathable fabric perfect for summer and back-to-school chaos.
Shop here
Levy’s Rigid Denim Apron – A denim apron made for all those days you spend creating.
Shop here
Chef Kolby’s Flavor Legacy
Rooted in his Creole heritage, Kolby’s dishes are unapologetically bold. “The best way I can describe Creole food is FULL OF FLAVOR,” he says. “Here in the South, we need to not just taste seasoning—we need to see it.”
In 2022, he launched Bayou City Seasonings, starting with All Purpose and Garlic Pepper blends that have already garnered rave reviews. His mission? To bottle the essence of his family kitchen and share it with the world.
From strawberry pancakes made with his PawPaw to nationally syndicated TV appearances (Top Chef Amateurs), Chandler’s journey proves that the recipe for success blends heritage, hustle, and a dash of glamour.
Follow Chef Kolby’s Socials