Rachael Ray Season 9 Episode 111 Fat Tuesday with Dale Earnhardt Jr. & Rach's New Orleans-Style Pinwheel Steaks

In Rachael Ray season 9 episode 111, titled "Fat Tuesday with Dale Earnhardt Jr. & Rach's New Orleans-Style Pinwheel Steaks," the beloved TV chef welcomes a special guest: retired NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt Jr.

As the title suggests, the episode centers on Fat Tuesday, the annual holiday celebrated in New Orleans. Rachael channels the city's vibrant cuisine with her recipe for New Orleans-style pinwheel steaks. These savory masterpieces are filled with a mix of sausage, onions, and bell peppers, then grilled to perfection.

Dale joins Rachael in the kitchen to whip up a dish of his own – a classic Mardi Gras pairing of jambalaya and red beans and rice. The two share banter and cooking tips as they prepare their respective dishes, making for a fun and lively segment.

But it's not all about the food in this episode. Rachael also takes a moment to reflect on the meaning behind Fat Tuesday, which is traditionally a time of excess and indulgence before the fasting season of Lent begins.

To honor the spirit of the holiday, Rachael whips up a batch of king cake, a colorful and festive treat that's a staple of Mardi Gras celebrations. Along with a few culinary tips, she shares her recipe for the classic dessert.

Aside from the food-related segments, Rachael also welcomes a special guest from the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a charity that grants wishes to critically ill children. Together, they surprise a young girl with the opportunity to meet Dale Earnhardt Jr. and attend a NASCAR race.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to a mix of cooking tips, heartfelt moments, and lively banter. It's a fitting tribute to the lively and indulgent holiday that is Fat Tuesday.