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Junior masterchefs return on 'MasterChef: Back to Win', fans wonder how long show has been running

Fans can't believe how much the 'MasterChef Junior' contestants have grown as adults as they return to compete for the title

'MasterChef: Back to Win' Episode 2 included further clashes after some cooks won their apron and a chance at redemption. Some chefs appeared to be older, although they have gained culinary knowledge through the years.

The auditions for the most competitive season of 'MasterChef' resumed this week. These auditions provide an opportunity for individuals who have fallen short in previous seasons to realize their culinary goals. This week, three chefs from 'MasterChef Junior' compete as adults for the first time in the all-new "Back to Win – Audition Battles (Part 2)" episode of 'MasterChef,' which aired on Wednesday, June 1 at 8 pm ET/PT on FOX. As the now-not-so-young cooks compete for the coveted white aprons, fans on social media can't get enough of seeing their faves all grown up.

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While many people are impressed by the culinary expertise and ability of 'MasterChef Junior,' it was intriguing to see how the younger chefs have pursued their culinary aspirations. Even though younger cooks seem bold, they appeared to be more careful the second time around. Nonetheless, age is not a factor in the judges' decisions. These cooks had to present the greatest meal imaginable. The judges, Gordon Ramsay, Joe Bastianich, and Aarón Sánchez, do not overlook bad execution, muddled tastes, or poor presentation.

Former 'MasterChef Junior' participants competed in the night's final battle! Tae-Ho is currently 19 years old and finished Season 4 in 13th position. He's attended high school and culinary school since then. Shane is currently 18 years old and finished third in Season 5. Shane has since begun college and works at a Vietnamese BBQ restaurant. Dara is currently 20 years old and was the runner-up in Season 1. People may remember her for constantly having large bows in her hair, but she's since dropped the bow and earned a culinary degree.

Tae-Ho presents "Sleeping Beef," which consists of a New York strip with pasta blankets and sugar snap peas in yuzu dashi sauce. Even though the steak is somewhat undercooked, Joe like the taste, Aarón enjoys the herbs, and Gordon loves the pasta. Shane's main meal is a cajun risotto with blackened catfish and a cajun cream sauce. Gordon praises the risotto for being better than his own at the time. Aarón thinks the catfish is delicious, and the tastes are distinct. Dara finishes with Chinese-style steamed fish, stuffed bok choy, and seasoned dashi broth. Gordon describes it as aesthetically stunning and tasty. Joe describes her meal as "electric" since the fish is cooked to perfection. Dara from Junior Season 1 and Shane from Junior Season 5 are the last two cooks to take home white aprons tonight.

Fans rushed to social media to express their delight at the return of some of their favorite little chefs (who are no longer so tiny). One fan tweeted: "One thing about the #masterchefjunior alumni, they could cook as kids, and they can cook now! Their food looks so good and better than the alumni of #masterchef"

Viewers who have never seen or had the opportunity to watch the "Junior" version of the show have been left shocked by the dishes served by these young cooks. One such viewer wrote: "I’ve never watched MasterChef:Junior before but it’s cool to these former kid contestants on the show as adults. It makes me want to get into MasterChef Junior. #MasterChef"

One OG viewer remarked on the show's longevity over the years, noting that the 'MasterChef Junior' participants are back and fighting as adults: "Dang! Some of the junior competitors are back as adults we really been watching this franchise for a long time! Lol #MasterChef"

To find out who is next in line for a white apron this season, tune in to 'MasterChef: Back to Win' on Fox next Wednesday at 8 p.m.

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