In the premiere episode, chefs Anne Burrell and Gabe Bertaccini have their work cut out for them as they attempt to turn a bunch of culinary train wrecks into kitchen stars, but first, they need to know what they are up against. The recruits kick things off with their signature showstopper dish, and in the main dish challenge, they tackle the ultimate test: recreating the chefs' "winner winner chicken dinner." Those with promise move on while the rest face elimination. Across the season, with guidance from Anne and Gabe, the recruits will tackle restaurant classics, try to master global cuisines, and compete in the fan-favorite Remote Control Chef challenge, in their bid to be the best of the worst.

Chefs Anne Burrell and Gabe Bertaccini take their teams back in time for a grand Italian relay race, where the recruits must pull together an epic spread worthy of the era. After soaking up the Renaissance spirit, the skill drill challenge gets even more refined with a dish of pork Milanese. In the main dish challenge, the recruits dive into making fresh mezzaluna pasta. While some shine, it's "pasta la vista" for those who fall short.