You don't know what you might be missing

By Vinnie Penn
Special to MSN TV

The most-watched reality TV shows may be on the major networks and get major ratings, but that doesn't mean that they are the be-all-end-all when it comes to reality TV.

I know what you're thinking: "Well, of course not. What about all those 'Housewives' and Kardashians?" And you're right. But elsewhere, on channels you might ordinarily skip over, where TV series with subject matter that might not even seem remotely entertaining, some of the best, most compelling reality television is taking place.

The Food Network made a name for itself with its reality TV programming. Having kicked it up a notch since Emeril, the network's competition shows rival "Idol" as far as fan base and fervor. This season's "Next Food Network Star" (now known simply as "Food Network Star") is quite possibly its best yet, for starters. Taking a cue from "The Voice," Bobby Flay, Giada De Laurentiis and Alton Brown are judges-cum-mentors and each assembles a team to go head-to-head, with one "coach" ultimately delivering this season's winner. "Chopped All-Stars" has also made a splash since its April bow.

Here's a list of some reality TV shows you might not know about but should.

Bing: 'Food Network Star'

What's your favorite underrated reality TV show? Tell us at MSN TV on Facebook and Twitter.

"The Next Food Network Star" airs Sundays at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Food Network.

(Food Network)