Purdy High School took home first place at Missouri State University’s annual Culinary Showdown on April 4, where students from across Missouri competed in a fast-paced culinary challenge that tested creativity, teamwork and technical skills.

Purdy students Marlene Villa and Easten Goetz wowed the judges with their expertly prepared dish: a top sirloin steak with creamy mushroom sauce, served on a bed of mashed potatoes, with a cucumber and tomato salad on the side.

Their plate stood out for its flavor, balance, and beautiful presentation, the judges said.

The event featured teams from 12 high schools across the state, each challenged to create a restaurant-quality entrée in just 60 minutes. Students were given a list of ingredients and a mystery ingredient at the start of the competition, then had to plan and execute a full meal featuring a protein, vegetable, starch and sauce. The mystery ingredient was cream cheese, which Villa an Goetz incorporated into the mashed potato base.

Throughout the day, students worked through every stage of a professional kitchen operation — from planning and prep to production and cleanup — mirroring real-world culinary settings. They were evaluated on taste, presentation, sanitation, teamwork and timing.

Missouri State University’s College of Education and Hospitality Leadership hosted the event, with support from Hiland Dairy. Attendees also had the opportunity to meet Chef Steven Brooks, an executive chef from Northwest Arkansas, who shared encouragement and inspiration with students throughout the day.

‘This win marks a proud moment for Purdy High School and is a testament to the talent and dedication of its students and culinary program,’ a Purdy schools press release said.