MasterChef is on the hunt for the UK’s most talented home cooks to apply for the next series of the hit BBC One programme.
Following the huge success of the 2026 series, featuring judges Anna Haugh and Grace Dent, a brand-new competition is due to film later this year. Programme makers are searching for the next line-up; home cooks who are full of skill and passion, with a desire to showcase their fabulous dishes to the nation.
The competition represents the diversity of extraordinary home cooks up and down the UK and provides a snapshot into the culinary delights cooked in home kitchens across the country.
The series has proven popular with keen amateur cooks who want to push themselves out of their comfort zone and have something to prove. Throughout the competition, the contestants have the opportunity to learn a huge amount about both themselves and their love of food.
2026 Champion Jhané Gibson says: “MasterChef is so much more than just a cooking competition! It made me a better cook for sure, but it also really pushed me to realise my potential. You become part of the MasterChef family and I made so many lifelong friends along the way. If you’re thinking of applying, just go for it. You never know where it could take you.”
The MasterChef team say: “Appearing on MasterChef can be a thrilling experience and life changing for some. We’ve had contestants from all walks of life; some who have been cooking since they were young, others who have only recently fallen in love with food. Either way, seeing amazing home cooks tell their stories through their food and really push themselves to impress the judges is incredible and we’d love to hear from cooks who have the urge to give it a go.”
To apply, cooks must meet the eligibility requirements and complete an online application. The closing date is July 31st 2026. The competition celebrates the diversity of food culture found throughout the UK and applications from cooks of all backgrounds are welcome. For more details and to apply, visit www.masterchef.tv
MasterChef is a Shine TV production (part of Banijay UK) for BBC One and iPlayer.
Photo: (c) Shine TV Limited/Ziji Productions Limited
