We hear the competition was fierce flavorful.

But once the spoons were down, Minnesota gastronauts Sen. Al Franken (D) and Rep. Chip Cravaack (R) were declared the co-champs of the second annual Hot Dish Off.

Franken wooed judges with a pseudo-holiday offering featuring roast turkey, gravy, wild rice and water chestnuts, while Cravaack wove together eggs, sharp cheddar, ground pork and cream of mushroom soup into a breakfasty treat.

As predicted, the other participating Members of Congress did not spare the interesting meats, loading up their regionally inspired casseroles with everything from browned pheasant to cubed Spam.

Hungry for more? Feast your eyes on the recipes for all the featured entries here.