Aaron McCargo, Jr. competed on and won Season 4 of "The Next Food Network Star" in 2008, beating out thousands of culinary hopefuls for the ultimate dream job - his own Food Network show. "Big Daddy's House" premiered Aug. 3, 2008 and ranked as the number one "in the kitchen" weekend show during its initial six-episode run. Food Network renewed the show for a second season, which premiered Jan. 4, 2009, and for a third season, which premiered July 12, 2009. On "Big Daddy's House," McCargo shares his passion for big, bold flavors and fun family cooking. From comfort foods to barbeque favorites to breakfast delights, McCargo whips up mouth-watering recipes inspired by many years of culinary experience and his fun-loving family while bringing a down-to-earth vibe and warm smile to the kitchen. McCargo has also made appearances on Food Network shows such as "The Best Thing I Ever Ate" and "Guy's Grocery Games," and is a recurring chef on Spike's hit makeover show "Bar Rescue."

In 2010, McCargo's cookbook, "Simply Done, Well Done," entered bookstores nationwide, offering up the delectable menu choices showcased on his series in an easy-to-prepare, simple way, making his good cooking available in people's kitchens everywhere. McCargo also launched a product line of spices (McCargo's Flavor of Bold) and barbeque sauces (Jersey BBQ), thereby furthering his quest to make flavorful, bold foods available to everyone.

A family man who adores all things flavorful, McCargo's passion for cooking was sparked at the age of four when he started baking cakes in his sister's Easy Bake Oven. Always an entrepreneur at heart, he began making and selling cakes and cookies to his childhood friends. At age 13, McCargo was a junior volunteer in the kitchen at Cooper Hospital University. He has since worked in nine New Jersey restaurants in both casual and fine dining. In 2003, McCargo opened his own restaurant in Camden, N.J., called McCargo's Restaurant. He also served as the executive VIP catering chef at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. He attended Atlantic Cape Community College's Academy of Culinary Arts.

McCargo has been featured on numerous national news programs including the "Today" show, "Live with Regis and Kelly," "Rachael Ray," "The Talk," "Dr. Oz" and "The Chew." His rise to fame has been covered everywhere from The New York Times to Essence Magazine, where he was previously a contributing editor. In Essence Magazine, readers were able to find more of his innovative ideas about how to get the family into the kitchen. He has served as spokesperson for the Great American Dine Out and worked closely with Share Our Strength to help nearly 12.6 million American children in their fight against hunger. The Great American Dine Out afforded McCargo the opportunity to see his recipes featured on menus of participating restaurants around the country.

Born and raised in Camden, N.J., McCargo regularly speaks to youth at community schools and events, illustrating that they too can succeed despite the odds. Honoring him for his success and service, Camden Mayor Gwendolyn Faison presented McCargo with the keys to the city in 2008 and designated Sept. 25 as Aaron McCargo, Jr. Day.

McCargo comes from a large family (he has five brothers and sisters), whose constant support has helped him achieve his goals. In his spare time, he enjoys Bible study, tennis, Buffalo wings, watching sports and traveling. Married with three children, McCargo lives with his family in New Jersey.

McCargo is the founder of the Play To Win charity, whose charter is to provide services to male youth primarily residing in single-parent homes in Camden and demonstrating at-risk behaviors. He is currently working on his latest cookbook and awaiting the highly anticipated opening of his newest restaurant, Fry Factory.