Easy Stovetop Popcorn Recipe
User Reviews
4.2
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Cook Time
5 mins
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Total Time
5 mins
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Servings
4 2 cups each
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Calories
1535 kcal
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Cuisine
gluten-free
Easy Stovetop Popcorn Recipe
Description
Easy Stovetop Popcorn starts by heating a tablespoon of oil with a single kernel to test the temperature. When that kernel pops, the remaining kernels are added and coated with hot oil by swirling the pot. The lid is cracked slightly during popping to release excess steam, which helps maintain crispness. Once popping slows, the pot is removed from heat to prevent burning.
The residual heat conveniently melts butter placed back in the pot after popping, which can then be drizzled over the popcorn. Seasoning salt is optional for a mild, savory taste.
This method produces fresh popcorn suitable for snack time and can be customized with different seasonings or toppings. Using a neutral high-heat oil such as vegetable or canola allows for even heating without smoke.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil $0.04, high heat
- 1/3 cup popcorn kernels $0.19
- 2 Tbsp butter $0.26, optional
- 1/2 tsp seasoning salt $0.05, optional
Instructions
- Add the oil and one kernel to a large sauce pot. Place the lid on the pot and turn the heat onto medium-high. Wait for the test kernel to pop.
- Once the kernel pops, add the rest of the kernels, replace the lid, and give the pot a swirl to coat the kernels in the hot oil. Wait for the kernels to begin to pop. You can swirl again to redistribute the hot oil, if needed.
- Once the kernels begin to pop rapidly, crack the lid a little bit to allow excess steam to escape. Make sure it's only open a little to keep the pot hot enough to continue popping the corn.
- When the popping slows to about one pop per second, turn off the heat. Wait a few extra seconds for the last few pops, then remove the lid and pour the popcorn into a bowl.
- Let the pot cool for two minutes or so, then add the butter to the still hot pot. Allow the residual heat in the pot to melt the butter, swirling the butter to maximize the contact with the hot pan. Drizzle the melted butter over the popcorn bowl, then sprinkle with seasoning salt or your favorite herbs and spices.
Notes
- Use high-heat cooking oils like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed for popping.
- Cracking the lid slightly during popping prevents sogginess by releasing steam.
- Swirl the pot occasionally to coat kernels in hot oil and promote even popping.
- Allow residual heat to melt butter for drizzling instead of adding butter to oil before popping, which reduces burning risk.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 42 cups each
Amount Per Serving
Calories 1535 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 2cups | |
| Calories | 153.5kcal | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 8.75g | 3% |
| Protein | 1.45g | 3% |
| Fat | 13g | 20% |
| Sodium | 340.9mg | 14% |
| Fiber | 1.63g | 7% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.2
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