Cooking Up Success: The Rise of Teen Chef Sophia ‘SJ’ Thomas
By: Jamie L. Parker
In a world where teens are often glued to screens, 15-year-old Sophia “SJ” Thomas stands out by heating the kitchen and inspiring a generation. This culinary prodigy isn’t just following recipes; she’s crafting a legacy that’s as rich and flavorful as her signature dishes.
From Play Kitchens to Professional Ones
Sophia’s love affair with cooking began at the tender age of three. What started as playful mixing in her family’s kitchen soon became a full-blown passion. By 13, she had launched SJ Savory Kitchen, aiming to teach kids and families how to whip up nutritious meals at home. But she didn’t stop there; recognizing the importance of kitchen safety, she introduced SJ Cookware, a line designed with young chefs in mind.
Making History and Headlines
Sophia’s talents haven’t gone unnoticed. She made history as the first African American to grace the cover of Teen HiLife magazine, a testament to her trailblazing spirit. Her accolades include the National “Girl of Merit” award in both 2018 and 2019, and in 2022, she received a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from Senator Lucy McBath. These honors highlight her dedication to culinary arts and her community.
Stirring Up the Media
With charisma as compelling as her cuisine, Sophia has been featured on major networks like NBC, Fox, and ABC. Her guest cooking segments have reached over 2 million viewers, showcasing her ability to connect with audiences and inspire budding chefs nationwide.
A Heart as Big as Her Ambitions
Beyond the kitchen, Sophia’s commitment to giving back is truly inspiring. With military veteran parents, she actively supports veteran non-profits, sending care packages overseas. She also contributes to charities like Victoria’s Voice and No Kid Hungry. She and her sister helped raise over $150,000 for Stand Up for Kids, a non-profit aiding homeless youth.
Cooking Up a Storm: Sophia’s Five-Cheese Macaroni
One of Sophia’s standout recipes is her indulgent Five-Cheese Macaroni, which ideally encapsulates her flair for comfort food with a gourmet twist. Here’s how you can recreate it:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound macaroni
- 8 tablespoons butter, divided
- ½ cup shredded Muenster cheese
- ½ cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 8 ounces cubed Velveeta cheese
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- ¼ teaspoon seasoning salt
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
- Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a deep 2½-quart baking dish.
- Cook the Macaroni: Fill a large pot with water, add the vegetable oil, and bring to a rapid boil. Add macaroni and cook for about 7 minutes, until somewhat tender. Drain well and return to the pot.
- Cheesy Goodness: Melt 8 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan and stir it into the macaroni. In a large bowl, combine all the shredded cheeses. Add 1½ cups of the shredded cheeses, half-and-half, cubed Velveeta, eggs, seasoning salt, and pepper to the macaroni. Mix thoroughly.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the macaroni mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cups of shredded cheese on top. Dot with the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and bubbly. Serve hot.
Photo Courtesy: Raquel Riley Thomas
Balancing Act: Teen Life and Ambitions
Despite her packed schedule, Sophia remains grounded. She cherishes time with her family, enjoys watching scary movies, and dotes on her pets—Logan, a British Shorthair cat, and Marley, an English Creme Golden Retriever.
A Shining Example for Gen Z
Sophia “SJ” Thomas exemplifies the spirit of Gen Z—innovative, community-minded, and fearless in pursuing passions. Her journey from a curious toddler in the kitchen to a celebrated teen chef and entrepreneur is a recipe for inspiration, proving that with dedication and heart, the sky’s the limit.
Published by Jeremy S.
