15-Minute Garlic Parmesan Popcorn
A quick and easy stovetop snack, this Garlic Parmesan Popcorn combines zesty spices with savory Parmesan for a flavorful, low-calorie treat. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for satisfying cravings with wholesome ingredients.
Equipment
- 1 large heavy-bottomed pot with fitted lid
- Measuring spoons (set of various sizes)
- 1 large mixing bowl
- Fine grater (for Parmesan)
- Heat-resistant silicone spatula
Ingredients
- ¼ cup popcorn kernels enough to cover the bottom of your pot in a single layer
- 1 to 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil enough to coat the bottom of the pot thinly
Spice Blend:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Topping:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter melted
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Your Cooking Pot: Select a large, heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid to ensure even heat distribution and prevent popcorn from escaping. Pour in the vegetable or canola oil, spreading it evenly across the bottom in a thin layer.
- Add Popcorn Kernels: Place the popcorn kernels into the pot so they form a single layer. This helps the kernels pop uniformly without overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.
- Heat and Pop the Corn: Cover the pot with the lid and place it over medium-high heat. As the kernels heat up, they will begin to pop. Gently shake the pot every 15-20 seconds to prevent the kernels from burning and to help unpopped kernels settle to the bottom. Listen for the popping to slow down significantly—when there are about 2 seconds between pops, it's time to remove the pot from heat.
- Mix the Spice Blend: While the popcorn is popping, combine chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, rosemary, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. This mixture will add a bold, spicy flavor to the popcorn.
- Season the Popcorn: Once the popcorn is fully popped, immediately drizzle the melted butter over the hot kernels. Sprinkle on your desired amount of the prepared spice mix and toss thoroughly in a large bowl to ensure every kernel is coated evenly.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan cheese directly over the seasoned popcorn. Toss once again gently to distribute the cheese evenly, giving the popcorn a savory, cheesy finish.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the popcorn to serving bowls and enjoy while warm for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Oil Choice: You can substitute vegetable or canola oil with light olive oil or avocado oil for a slightly different flavor and healthy fats. Avoid extra virgin olive oil due to its lower smoke point.
- Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a milder snack, or increase it if you prefer more heat.
- Parmesan Tip: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and offers superior flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness. Reheat gently in the oven or stovetop if needed, but avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Replace butter with melted coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute, and omit Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative to suit dietary preferences.
