Tyler Malson

My love for cooking started with my grandmother, who taught me the power of simple, homemade meals and bringing people together through food. I am the Chef At VISITATION School, where i get to continue that passion by creating meals that nourish and connect the community. I’m also inspired by Minnesota’s local, in-season ingredients—fresh produce that brings out the best flavors while supporting local farmers. Cooking, for me, is about tradition, community, and making every mea

Growing up in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, brats were a staple in our house, and they’ve become one of my favorite ingredients to cook with. I love finding creative ways to incorporate them into French-inspired dishes, adding a twist to classic flavors. One of my favorites is a bratwurst-stuffed gougère, where the rich, smoky sausage pairs perfectly with the airy, cheesy pâte à choux. I’ve also used brats in a cassoulet, replacing traditional sausage with a well-seared b

My family has a cabin in northern Wisconsin, where we spend much of our summer. If I were to win, I’d use the $25K to launch a seasonal spot featuring creative, elevated brat-inspired dishes—putting a fresh twist on classic Wisconsin flavors. My goal is to celebrate local ingredients and make Wisconsin cuisine exciting and fun for the community all summer long.