The 5 Netflix Cooking Shows You Need to Watch in 2024

In the past decade, the culinary world has truly exploded, not just in restaurants but right into our living rooms through an array of captivating food shows. For many of us, the perfect accompaniment to a relaxing evening is a cooking show, offering a delightful blend of competitive drama, cultural insight, or the simple joy of home cooking. Who can resist the allure of masterful chefs, intriguing ingredients, and the shared passion for food?

Netflix, a titan known for its extensive library of feature films and virtually unlimited TV series, has become a prime destination for food enthusiasts. Today, we’re inviting you to elevate your streaming experience with a curated selection of the most delectable picks from Netflix’s kitchen. We’re diving deep into the 5 Best Cooking Shows To Watch On Netflix, a diverse smorgasbord of flavors that will transport you from your cozy couch to bustling city kitchens and serene culinary landscapes across the globe.

Whether your palate craves the high-stakes drama of cooking competitions, the comforting embrace of classic home cooking shows, or the exhilarating thrill of discovering new cuisines and the stories behind them, Netflix offers an unparalleled buffet of great options. These culinary series are more than just entertainment; they are windows into different cultures, celebrations of human creativity, and powerful sources of inspiration for your own kitchen adventures.

And because food is not just a passion but a way of life, I’m pairing each recommended show with a unique Steamy Kitchen recipe that I believe you’ll utterly enjoy while you view—or perhaps binge-watch—these Netflix culinary delights. Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey!

Chef’s Table: A Deep Dive into Culinary Genius

Kicking off our list is a true crown jewel in Netflix’s extensive library of food documentaries: Chef’s Table. This isn’t merely a cooking show; it’s a profound documentary series that presents a visual and sensory feast, offering an intimate, almost philosophical, look into the lives, kitchens, and minds of some of the world’s most renowned and innovative chefs. Each episode is a meticulously crafted portrait, blending breathtaking cinematography with compelling narratives.

The magic of Chef’s Table lies in its ability to intertwine the artistry of fine dining with the deeply personal stories and philosophies that drive the chefs to create their masterpieces. It goes beyond the delicious food itself, delving into how we connect with food and each other on a profoundly human level. Viewers are invited to understand the sacrifices, inspirations, and relentless pursuit of perfection that define these culinary masters.

From Argentine chef Francis Mallmann’s rustic, elemental use of traditional Patagonian fire and earth cooking methods, vividly explored in the first season, to the serene Korean Buddhist nun Jeong Kwan and her spiritual, ego-less connection to cooking from the soul in the third, Chef’s Table provides an unparalleled look at global food and culture with remarkable depth and realistic gravity. It celebrates diverse culinary traditions, innovative techniques, and the sheer passion that elevates cooking to an art form. This series is an absolute must-watch for anyone who appreciates a powerful, inspiring story served alongside an extraordinary meal, solidifying its place among the best food shows on Netflix.

In the spirit of Chef’s Table, where every dish narrates a unique story and embodies a chef’s life philosophy, I want to share a recipe that holds a truly special place in my heart: Mom’s Chinese Chicken Soup. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a bowlful of cherished memories, a culinary legacy lovingly passed down through generations. Each spoonful simmers with family history and provides the kind of profound comfort that only a mother’s cooking can deliver. What makes it even more endearing is that the original post for this recipe was penned by my eldest son when he was just 11 years old, and revisiting his words is always a delightful trip down memory lane.

Understanding that life is too short not to have options, I’ve thoughtfully adapted this cherished family classic to accommodate whichever kitchen gadget you have readily available. Whether you are a fervent pressure cooker aficionado, a steadfast stovetop enthusiast, or a devoted crock-pot practitioner, I’ve ensured you are well-covered. My deepest hope is that this soup warms your soul and nourishes your spirit as much as it consistently does mine, serving as a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our heritage and loved ones.

The Great British Bake Off: A Sweet Escape

Ah, The Great British Bake Off (known affectionately as “The Great British Baking Show” in the United States). This delightful series has undoubtedly instilled in us all a newfound confidence that we, too, could whip up a perfect Victoria sponge in our sleep, and has charmingly woven the term “soggy bottom” into our everyday vocabulary. This beloved cooking competition has soared in popularity, becoming an indispensable staple of heartwarming reality television and a shining example of the best cooking shows on Netflix.

Within the iconic white tent, amateur bakers from across the UK gather, blending their fervent passion for baking with the gentle intensity of a competition series. It’s a truly heartwarming and often hilarious series that reveres the pure joy of baking, showcasing everything from the humble, perfectly proofed scone to the most intricate, show-stopping pastries. All of this is generously sprinkled with the unique charm, wit, and camaraderie that only the Brits can bring to the screen. Each season offers viewers a mesmerizing array of bakes, from triumphs of confectionery to those memorable mishaps, all critiqued by an esteemed panel of celebrity chef icons.

This cultural phenomenon has successfully captured the hearts of audiences around the globe, making it an obvious and well-deserved choice for one of the top culinary shows on Netflix. Its blend of accessible baking, delightful personalities, and genuine suspense makes it an unparalleled watch for anyone seeking comfort and inspiration in the kitchen.

In the true spirit of this beloved baking bonanza, where simplicity masterfully meets sophistication, I am absolutely thrilled to share with you a recipe that is bound to get the tent buzzing with excitement: Tiramisu Cupcakes! Now, before you even begin to think, “But isn’t Tiramisu that famously fancy Italian dessert with enough intricate layers to rival a proper British winter outfit?” let me swiftly assure you otherwise. Yes, traditional Tiramisu is, indeed, a culinary masterpiece featuring delicate ladyfingers soaked in rich coffee liqueur, layered with luxurious mascarpone cream, and elegantly dusted with cocoa powder. BUT! Who says we can’t have a little fun, inject some creativity, and bake up a storm, all in true GBBO style?

These Tiramisu cupcakes are my playful and cheeky nod to the classic, masterfully simplifying the process without ever skimping on its incredible taste. They begin with a foundation of rich, fudgy chocolate cake, followed by a gentle, flavorful brushing of coffee liqueur to deliver that essential wake-me-up aroma and taste. Then, we generously dollop on the creamy mascarpone, creating a luscious middle layer. But wait, there’s even more! A delicate swirl of airy whipped cream beautifully caps off each cupcake, adding another layer of texture and sweetness. And for the grand finale, a tasteful sprinkle of chocolate shavings that would undoubtedly make Mary Berry beam with pride—and perhaps even elicit a coveted “soggy bottom” joke from Paul Hollywood, albeit in good humor.

And the best part, for all you pragmatic bakers out there? Only two eggs are required! (I can almost hear a collective sigh of relief from egg-savers everywhere.) Plus, there is absolutely no overnight wait time needed. Because, let’s be honest, when you’ve got an undeniable craving for Tiramisu at two o’clock in the afternoon, waiting until tomorrow is simply out of the question. These cupcakes are the perfect quick fix, delivering all the classic Tiramisu flavor with a delightful cupcake twist.

Ugly Delicious: Challenging Culinary Perceptions

Ugly Delicious is the brilliant brainchild of the renowned chef David Chang, a visionary who has consistently pushed the boundaries of modern cuisine. This exceptional Netflix travelogue boldly breaks the mold of traditional cooking shows by taking viewers on a rich, provocative journey that challenges the very notion of what makes food truly “good.” Chang, accompanied by a rotating cast of insightful friends—often fellow writers, activists, artists, celebrity guests, and other chefs—travels the world to dive fork-first into dishes that frequently defy conventional gourmet expectations, from the vibrant culinary scenes of Copenhagen to the bustling eateries of Tokyo.

Ugly Delicious seamlessly blends elements of a captivating travel show, an engaging food show, and a profound cultural documentary all into one compelling series. In a style that the late, great Anthony Bourdain would undoubtedly appreciate, Chang taps into iconic eateries and hidden gems alike, such as Galatoire’s in New Orleans and Mister Jiu’s in San Francisco. Through these explorations, he uncovers the intricate layers of cultural traditions, deeply personal stories, and the beautiful souls dedicated to crafting each dish. The series’ primary goal is to powerfully demonstrate how some of the most satisfying and authentic food often comes without the frills or elaborate plating, proving that the best part of any meal is often the love, history, and community that goes into its preparation. That profound connection and unpretentious deliciousness is precisely what truly makes a dish “ugly-delicious,” making it a standout among food documentaries on Netflix.

Speaking of unexpected culinary heroes and challenging perceptions, let’s talk about a dish that is as deliciously controversial as it is unexpectedly delectable: Spam Fried Rice. Now, I fully understand what you might be thinking. Spam? Really? And my answer is an emphatic yes, really! In the grand and glorious tradition of Ugly Delicious, where the true beauty of food resides not in its pristine appearance but in its profound taste and cultural significance, Spam Fried Rice stands tall as an exemplary dish.

Outside of its cultural strongholds, Spam is often relegated to the status of an “ugly step-child,” typically banished to the highest, furthest reaches of the supermarket shelf, so far out of my 5’2” reach that I invariably have to enlist assistance. However, in places like Hawaii and other Pacific islands, Spam is practically a revered state treasure, a versatile ingredient that can be utterly transformed into a mouthwatering masterpiece. This Spam Fried Rice recipe is living, delicious proof of that transformative power. It’s a dish that wholeheartedly embraces the heart and soul of “Ugly Delicious,” powerfully demonstrating that culinary beauty truly is in the eye—or more accurately, the taste buds—of the beholder. It’s a flavor combination that is as unexpectedly perfect and surprisingly harmonious as pineapple on pizza or fries dipped in a frosty milkshake.

This Spam Fried Rice recipe is about more than just cooking; it’s about challenging established perceptions, and moreover, challenging YOURSELF to take something ordinary and elevate it into something truly extraordinary. It’s a testament that deliciousness manifests in many forms, even from the most unassuming, humble can of Spam. Prepare to be delightfully surprised!

Salt Fat Acid Heat: The Fundamentals of Flavor

Diving into our next course, Salt Fat Acid Heat is less like passively watching a cooking show and much more like actively attending an exclusive masterclass taught by your cool, incredibly knowledgeable, and wonderfully enthusiastic food writer friend. Author and star chef Samin Nosrat takes the helm in this truly transformative series, which is ingeniously structured as part cooking show, part captivating travelogue, and part profound educational journey into the fundamental elements that make food truly POP with flavor. It’s a cornerstone of the culinary education available through Netflix’s expansive library.

Samin’s infectious warmth, genuine curiosity, and unwavering enthusiasm for teaching us about the foundational pillars of exceptional cooking—salt, fat, acid, and heat—make this series an absolute standout. It’s a show meticulously designed to empower you to genuinely think like a chef, so that you too can confidently transform your home cooking from merely mundane to truly extraordinary. Each episode breaks down complex culinary concepts into easily digestible and applicable lessons, proving that mastering a few basic principles can unlock endless possibilities in the kitchen.

As Samin travels the world, from the sun-drenched kitchens of Italy to the intricate culinary traditions of Japan, she brings an invigorating sense of curiosity and a spirit of discovery to each table and every ingredient she encounters. Salt Fat Acid Heat is a deliciously enlightening series that unequivocally proves good food isn’t just about the quality of the ingredients themselves, but far more significantly, about how those ingredients are thoughtfully brought together to create something truly magical. It’s a perfect match and an absolute must-watch for anyone who harbors a desire to truly elevate their culinary skills and gain a deeper understanding of flavor dynamics.

In a similar fashion to Samin Nosrat’s brilliant articulation of the core elements of cooking, I’ve long held a deep conviction that there’s a very specific combination of flavors that, when harmoniously present, takes a dish from merely good to absolutely phenomenal. I affectionately call it the 5 S’s: Salty, Sweet, Savory, Sour, and Spicy. When a dish successfully embodies all five of these fundamental elements, THAT, my friends, is when it truly ascends to flavor nirvana, creating an unforgettable sensory experience.

In the spirit of this delicious wisdom and the pursuit of perfect balance, I’m absolutely thrilled to share my 20 Minute Sriracha Sauce recipe. This homemade condiment concoction is so incredibly vibrant and perfectly balanced that it will quite literally knock your socks off, and then, with a playful charm, kindly offer to pick them up for you. This sauce is where the 5 S’s come together to party in your mouth, and trust me, it’s a bash you absolutely do not want to miss. Each ingredient plays its part, creating a symphony of taste that is both complex and incredibly satisfying.

This Sriracha sauce stands as a powerful testament to the undeniable importance of balance in cooking. It just goes to prove that when you meticulously hit all the right notes—just like Samin teaches with her elements—you inevitably create a flavor experience that is nothing short of transcendent. It’s a simple yet profound way to elevate any meal, making it an essential addition to your culinary repertoire.

Street Food: Unsung Heroes of Global Cuisine

And finally, we arrive at Street Food, a captivating series that masterfully takes us out of the confines of traditional kitchens and plunges us directly onto the vibrant, bustling streets of cities around the world. This extraordinary show serves up a hearty helping of authentic culture, unwavering passion, and, naturally, an abundance of mouthwatering dishes. It is a heartfelt celebration of the culinary heroes—often unsung and working tirelessly—who craft delicious, accessible food from their modest stalls and carts, embodying the true spirit of global street food.

Each compelling episode of Street Food meticulously focuses on a different country or region, offering viewers an intimate and unfiltered glimpse into the lives of those dedicated individuals who feed the masses. From the spicy, tangy, and invigorating flavors of Latin America to the rich, savory, and complex delights of Asian cuisine, Street Food brilliantly showcases the incredible diversity and profound depth of flavors that street food has to offer. Simultaneously, it deeply honors the time-honored traditions, immense hard work, and strong community bonds that these daily meals embody. The series highlights not just the food, but the personal stories, struggles, and triumphs of the vendors, making each dish feel even more significant.

Watching Street Food is akin to embarking on an exhilarating tour of the world’s best open-air markets and vibrant food bazaars, all from the supreme comfort of your own couch. For anyone with an insatiable hunger to explore new cultures, a taste for authentic adventure, and a desire to connect with the human stories behind everyday sustenance, Street Food is the perfect companion, solidifying its place as one of the most engaging food documentaries on Netflix.

Let’s talk about a quintessential street food favorite that has effortlessly stolen hearts (and perhaps a bit of shirt space) all over the globe: Mexican Street Corn, affectionately known as Elote. Now, I completely understand your reservations about the whole “eating corn off the cob” debacle. It is, undeniably, a deliciously messy affair, with every bite a delightful gamble between ultimate satisfaction and what we might playfully call a “corn-tastrophe” of kernels scattering everywhere but directly into your mouth. The struggle is real, and it’s a shared experience among Elote lovers.

So, in the spirit of fully enjoying the explosive, vibrant flavors of Elote without requiring a post-meal full outfit change, I’ve thoughtfully cooked up a little something truly special: Mexican Street Corn in the Microwave. Yes, you absolutely heard that right! We are brilliantly taking this beloved street food classic off the bustling streets and into the convenience of your microwave, transforming it into a complete game-changer for those of us who adore the taste but could frankly do without the inherent mess.

This ingenious recipe is crafted specifically for all my fellow Elote enthusiasts who have found themselves more than once meticulously picking corn kernels out of their teeth and pondering, “There’s got to be a better, cleaner way.” Well, my friends, the better way is finally here, and it is ridiculously easy to prepare. It’s Elote reimagined for the messy eaters, the fork-favorers, and truly anyone who has ever wistfully thought, “I wish I could enjoy this magnificent dish without needing a bib and a shower afterward.” This Microwave Mexican Street Corn recipe not only keeps the authentic soul and incredible flavor of the street original alive but also perfectly caters to the mess-conscious food lover, ensuring pure enjoyment without the fuss.

We sincerely hope you’ve thoroughly enjoyed this curated guide to the crème de la crème of Netflix’s culinary offerings for 2024. These exceptional shows represent the perfect blend of entertainment, education, and truly mouthwatering visuals. Our deepest hope is that they not only ignite your passion for incredible food but also inspire your very next kitchen adventure, encouraging you to explore new flavors and techniques with confidence and creativity.

But rest assured, the feast doesn’t stop here! This streaming service’s pantry is abundantly stocked with award-winning Netflix originals and an ever-expanding buffet of captivating content. For instance, consider the intense culinary battles of Final Table, where elite chefs compete for global culinary supremacy, or the comforting, heartwarming bakes of Nadiya’s Family Favourites. For those who enjoy a generous side of adventure with their meals, we highly recommend checking out Phil Rosenthal’s delightful travels in Somebody Feed Phil or diving into the rich history and regional varieties showcased in Taco Chronicles. Netflix truly offers an unparalleled selection of cooking shows and food documentaries to satisfy every taste and curiosity.

Whatever your choice, be sure to grab your favorite snacks, get incredibly comfy, and thoroughly enjoy the show. And then, of course, please come back and share with me which of these amazing Netflix cooking shows is YOUR absolute favorite in the comments section below. I would genuinely love to know your top picks and hear about your culinary inspirations! Happy watching, and even happier eating!