The kitchen is heating up again. MasterChef Australia is back in 2025, and this time it’s personal. The show premiered on Channel 10 on 28 April, with the wildly popular cooking competition returning with a “Back To Win” twist. Yes, familiar faces and a whole lot of drama are all on the menu.

This isn’t just another season. This is a season of revenge, and it’s shaping up to be a feast for longtime fans and foodies alike.

So, we’ve put together a preview looking at things like how people can watch it, and even some of the returning cast members. If you’re an avid watcher, you’ll probably remember some of them from seasons gone by. A lot of people looking for previews are interested in betting on the outcome. Just like a lot of other competitive pursuits, betting on MasterChef is possible and is something that quite a few viewers do get involved in.

People can bet on the winner of the competition and may choose somebody they think has the best credentials – or they might just like the idea of having someone to follow through the tournament.

Back To Win – the Return of the All-Stars

Back To Win isn’t a brand-new idea. It first made waves in 2020 when Emelia Jackson took the crown. Now, five years later, the format is back, and it’s bringing even more culinary firepower. Contestants from all corners of the MasterChef universe from Season 1 through 16 have returnedto take another shot at glory.

These aren’t fresh hopefuls fumbling over what to do in a kitchen. They’re experienced chefs and often pros. Many have built impressive careers since their first appearance. Now, they’re hungrier than ever.

A Judging Panel With Bite

Sorry about another food pun! Fans of the 2024 season will recognize the full judging lineup making a return for 2025. Andy Allen is back, still wearing his easygoing charm and culinary smarts. Poh Ling Yeow, the much-loved artist and chef, brings her warmth and eye for detail. Jean-Christophe Novelli adds international flair with a touch of French culinary finesse. Sofia Levin, the adventurous food critic and writer, rounds out the group.

And just to add even more spice to the mix, Gordon Ramsay will appear as a guest judge. Expect some classic Ramsay energy and hopefully a few fiery one-liners (though maybe he’ll be a little more reserved). His presence alone should crank up the pressure in the MasterChef kitchen.

Who’s Stepping Back Into the Kitchen?

This is where that twist comes in. The cast is stacked with returning contestants who made their mark in past seasons:

• Andre Ursini from Season 1, now a multi-restaurant owner in Adelaide.
• Audra Morrice, the powerhouse from Season 4 who went on to judge MasterChef Singapore.
• Callum Hann, a two-time contestant (Season 2 and 12), respected chef and cooking school owner.
• Alana Lowes, originally from Season 3, who has since built a career as a food writer, presenter and sauce queen.

You can see already from this that it is not going to be amateur hour. These are serious professionals and we’d all love to be in that kitchen when the food is served, I’m sure.

Watching someone return after 10 or even 15 years (armed with new skills and a new outlook) adds depth. There’s history here. Some rivalries may simmer and old friendships might rekindle.

There’s also an edge to these contestants. They’ve tasted the competition before. They know what it takes to survive eliminations and cook under bright lights and ticking clocks.

What We Know So Far

A teaser can be found online. It features clips of returning legends, a taste of the challenges to come and a cheeky flash of Gordon Ramsay. Enough to whet the appetite.

It’s already being talked about as one of the most exciting seasons in recent memory and with this cast, it’s easy to see why. There certainly aren’t going to be any simple college basics being cooked in that kitchen. This is going to be gourmet dining.

What To Expect

With so many heavy-hitters in one kitchen, the food is expected to be top-tier. These aren’t home cooks testing recipes. These are professionals and serious hobbyists who’ve spent years refining their technique. Expect creative twists and some amazing dishes. Even if we want the chefs to get annoyed for the humor of it, it is not likely with these guys in the kitchen.

This season also lands at a time when food trends are constantly shifting. Food television has changed a lot in the years since MasterChef first came to Australia.

And let’s be honest: viewers don’t just want the drama. They want to be inspired. They want to experience flavors they’ve never heard of and techniques they can try at home.

The Contenders Are Ready

As always, only one can win. That’s the game. But with this kind of lineup, it’s safe to say the journey will be just as delicious as the destination.

MasterChef Australia: Back To Win is back on screens on Channel 10 in Australia (and elsewhere) in 2025.