About Myself

Texas BBQ Cooking Classes in (Near Dallas) Lavon, TX

Master BBQ Pitmaster Steve Botkin

Desperado BBQ — Est. 2013

Desperado BBQ was founded in 2013 with one mission: produce authentic, championship-quality Texas barbecue while developing award-winning BBQ sauces and rubs trusted by backyard cooks and competitive pitmasters alike.
I'm also a Advanced KCBS Certified Judge.

My competitive barbecue journey began with an unforgettable debut—earning Grand Champion in my very first BBQ competition. Since then, I've competed against some of the most respected names in barbecue, including Myron Mixon, Moe Cason, Harry Soo, and Johnny Trigg, earning championships and awards while continually refining my craft.

Pitmaster Steve Botkin with Harry Soo and Johnny Trigg Pitmaster Steve Botkin with Moe Cason Pitmaster Steve Botkin with Myron Mixon
In 2016, I was honored to be invited as the behind-the-scenes pitmaster for award-winning pitmaster Harry Soo of Slap Yo' Daddy BBQ first BBQ classes in Sydney, Australia. While Harry taught the classes, I prepared and cooked the championship barbecue, giving students an authentic taste of world-class competition BBQ.
Pitmaster Steve Botkin in Sydney, Austraila Pitmaster Steve Botkin in Sydney, Austraila Pitmaster Steve Botkin in Sydney, Austraila
In 2017, I made history as the first American pitmaster invited to teach authentic Texas barbecue in Perth, Australia. Sharing award-winning techniques developed through years of competition and experience, which I have trained new and experienced bbq pitmasters plus barbecue enthusiasts from around the world in the art of true Texas BBQ.
Pitmaster Steve Botkin in Perth, Austraila Pitmaster Steve Botkin in Perth, Austraila Pitmaster Steve Botkin in Perth, Austraila
I was also featured as a guest BBQ pitmaster on Paula Deen's Positively Paula TV show, where I showcased authentic Texas barbecue techniques and flavors to a nationwide television audience. My appearance highlighted the traditions and craftsmanship behind genuine Texas BBQ, further establishing my reputation as an award-winning pitmaster. Watch the TV show: "BBQ Inside"
Pitmaster Steve Botkin and Paula Deen Pitmaster Steve Botkin Pitmaster Steve Botkin and Paula Deen

My Cooking Philosophy

Great barbecue is built on precision, patience, and passion. My cooking style combines the technical discipline of KCBS championship competition with the rich traditions of authentic Texas barbecue. Whether your goal is to win competitions or simply serve unforgettable brisket in your own backyard, I'll teach you the techniques, timing, and confidence needed to produce consistently outstanding results.

Commitment to Quality

Exceptional barbecue starts with exceptional ingredients. We use only premium-quality meats, carefully selected seasonings, and proven cooking methods. While quality comes at a higher cost, the difference is unmistakable—and it's a standard we never compromise.

Join a Desperado BBQ Class

Beginning in September 2026, I'll be hosting immersive, hands-on BBQ classes in Lavon, Texas. Students will learn using professional-grade equipment, including the Recteq RT-1200 "The Beast", a customized Weber Smokey Mountain 22-inch (WSM), and my one-of-a-kind BBQ FrankenCube smoker.

Every class is designed to provide practical, real-world instruction that you can immediately apply at home or on the competition circuit. Whether you're new to smoking meat or looking to elevate your barbecue to championship standards, I look forward to sharing the knowledge and techniques I've developed over decades behind the pit.