Cheesy Parmesan Popcorn: The Perfect Movie Night Snack
Who doesn’t love popcorn? It’s the ultimate snack – easy, fun to make, and endlessly customizable. For a savory twist, cheesy parmesan popcorn brings the perfect balance of crunch and flavor. With just the right amount of parmesan, butter, and a few seasonings, this popcorn is irresistible. Here’s everything you need to make it at home, along with some tips, variations, and storage suggestions.
Cheesy Parmesan Popcorn Recipe
Ingredients:
- 100g popcorn kernels
- 30g olive oil or coconut oil (for stovetop)
- 45g unsalted butter, melted
- 30g grated parmesan cheese
- 2g garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs, finely chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions:
Pop the Kernels
Start by popping the popcorn kernels. You can use a stovetop, air popper, or microwave—any method works!
- Stovetop: Add 2 tablespoons of oil to a large pot, add the kernels, cover with a lid, and heat over medium-high. Shake occasionally until popping slows down.
- Air Popper: Simply pour the kernels into the air popper and let it do its thing!
- Microwave: Place kernels in a paper bag, fold the top of the bag, and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, listening for the popping to slow. If you prefer you can use this new popcorn maker that goes in the microwave. It will also allow you to add butter to the lid. As the popcorn pops, the butter melts and drizzles over the freshly popped kernels, creating a gourmet experience without the need for extra tools.
Add the Toppings:
- Pour the hot popcorn into a large bowl. Drizzle the melted butter over the popcorn, tossing gently to coat.
- Sprinkle with parmesan, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss again until evenly coated.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately for the best flavor. Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for an extra touch if desired!
Suggestions for Best Parmesan Popcorn
Grate Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan has a softer texture and more flavor than pre-packaged options, which can sometimes be drier.
Distribute the Cheese Evenly: Toss the popcorn while it’s still warm so that the parmesan clings better.
Adjust Seasonings: Parmesan is naturally salty, so taste before adding too much salt. Add pepper, chili flakes, or even smoked paprika for a flavor boost.
Oil Choices: Olive oil gives a rich, savory taste, but for a slightly sweet contrast, try coconut oil. If you like butter, start with oil to prevent burning and add butter at the end.
Flavor Variations to Try
Spicy Cheddar and Parmesan: Mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder with the parmesan for a spicy kick.
Italian Herb Parmesan: Add a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme) for a Mediterranean flair.
Truffle Parmesan Popcorn: Drizzle a small amount of truffle oil over the popcorn before adding parmesan for an earthy, luxurious taste.
Parmesan Ranch Popcorn: Toss the popcorn with a little ranch seasoning powder along with the parmesan for a creamy, tangy snack.
Storage
To keep your cheesy popcorn fresh:
Store in an Airtight Container: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. For best taste, try to enjoy within 1-2 days.
Avoid Refrigeration: The fridge can introduce moisture, making the popcorn soggy. Store at room temperature instead.
Refreshing Leftovers: If the popcorn softens, re-crisp it in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for 5-10 minutes.
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