Save A collection of affordable, flavorful popcorn mixes perfect for snacking and sharing, ideal for snack boards and parties.
Popcorn is my go-to snack whenever friends visit. One evening, I made three different popcorn mixes for a movie night and everyone kept grabbing handfuls throughout the night!
Ingredients
- Popcorn kernels: 1/2 cup
- Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp
- Melted butter: 2 tbsp
- Sea salt: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Onion powder: 1/2 tsp
- Cayenne pepper: 1/4 tsp, optional for heat
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 2 tbsp
- Dried Italian herb mix: 1 tbsp
- Nutritional yeast: 1 tbsp, for cheesy flavor, vegan option
- Dried chili flakes: 1/2 tsp
- Ranch seasoning mix: 1 tbsp
- Finely chopped fresh chives or parsley: 2 tbsp, optional
Instructions
- Heat oil:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add a few popcorn kernels, cover and wait until they pop.
- Pop kernels:
- Add the remaining popcorn kernels, cover, and shake the pot occasionally. Once popping slows to a few seconds between pops, remove from heat.
- Transfer popcorn:
- Transfer the popcorn to a large bowl.
- Coat with butter:
- Drizzle with melted butter and toss to coat evenly, if using.
- Add seasonings:
- Sprinkle your chosen savoury seasonings over the popcorn while tossing to ensure even distribution.
- Mix and serve:
- Add any fresh herbs or cheese, if desired. Toss again. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Save Making homemade popcorn mixes together has become a fun family activity. We love experimenting with new flavors and sharing bowls during movie marathons.
Required Tools
Large pot with lid, large mixing bowl, measuring spoons, small saucepan for melting butter.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter, Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning). For dairy-free or vegan, use olive oil and omit cheese/ranch or use vegan substitutes. Ranch seasoning may contain milk or egg, always double-check labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (basic popcorn with butter and salt): Calories, 140. Total Fat, 7 g. Carbohydrates, 17 g. Protein, 2 g.
Save Customize popcorn mixes to suit your crowd and enjoy a tasty, budget-friendly snack that is sure to please everyone.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I pop the popcorn kernels properly?
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot, test a few kernels until they pop, then add the rest, covering and shaking occasionally. Remove heat when popping slows.
- → Can I make these mixes vegan-friendly?
Yes, substitute melted butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan-friendly flavor.
- → What are some seasoning combinations to try?
Mix smoked paprika with garlic powder and dried herbs for a smoky-herby blend or try cayenne with nutritional yeast for a spicy cheesy twist.
- → How should I store the popcorn mixes?
Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to two days, keeping flavors vibrant and the popcorn crunchy.
- → Are there any allergen considerations?
These mixes may contain dairy from butter, Parmesan, or ranch seasoning. For dairy-free, omit those or use vegan alternatives. Always check labels for allergens.