About Us

About Molly Carswell Pilz

Welcome to my corner of the culinary world! I’m Molly Carswell Pilz, a passionate recipe developer and food storyteller based in the heart of Bryson City, North Carolina. Born on February 20, 1982, my journey into cooking has been as rich and textured as the Appalachian landscapes that surround my home.

Personal Interests

Cooking has always been more than just a task for me—it’s a form of creative expression. I adore exploring new ingredients, reinventing classics, and diving deep into the science of flavor. My downtime is often filled with leafing through old cookbooks, gardening herbs on my porch, or taking food-inspired road trips across the Southeast. I gravitate toward Southern comfort food with a modern twist, and I can never resist a bold Korean BBQ or a well-balanced Mediterranean dish.

Professional Background

With over 15 years in the culinary field, I’ve worn many hats—from line cook to head chef, from test kitchen technician to freelance food stylist. I earned my stripes in both professional kitchens and hands-on workshops, refining a versatile skill set that bridges rustic authenticity with elegant presentation. I hold a Culinary Arts diploma from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and have had the joy of working with both local eateries and nationally recognized food brands.

My mission is to create recipes that empower home cooks, excite food enthusiasts, and offer professional chefs something new to chew on. My dishes are tested thoroughly in my kitchen on Fryemont Street and are guided by one simple philosophy: food should feel like home.

My Story

I grew up watching my grandmother bake cornbread in a cast iron skillet and my father smoke trout by the creek. These humble beginnings grounded me in tradition but also made me curious. I began testing recipes in my teens, often making a mess but learning quickly. Over time, that spark grew into a flame, and I found myself chasing the craft full-time.

The real turning point came when I started developing recipes not just for my own table but for others. The thrill of seeing someone recreate my dishes—and make them their own—is what keeps me going. I want to demystify cooking for beginners while also offering layers of complexity for seasoned chefs.

What I Offer

Through my work, I bring a diverse palette of recipes that range from cozy one-pot meals to intricate dinner party centerpieces. Every recipe is backed by technique, tested for clarity, and infused with personality. Whether you’re looking to refine your knife skills, master sous-vide cooking, or simply perfect a biscuit recipe, I’m here to walk with you step by step.

Meet our Team

Join the Community

Cooking, to me, is communal. I invite you to be part of a warm, welcoming community where questions are encouraged and experimentation is celebrated. Let’s swap stories, exchange tips, and bring a little more joy into our kitchens every day.

Thank you for stopping by and sharing in my culinary adventure. I can’t wait to cook something extraordinary with you.

From my kitchen to yours,

Molly