This post may contain affiliate links.
Learn how to make the best stove top popcorn using this simple process, that uses just three ingredients and one pot! Skip the microwave and make tender, fluffy, perfectly popped popcorn every time.
In This Post
One of my superpowers is that I make really good popcorn. Yep, it’s one of those little life skills that I’ve perfected. It’s light, fluffy, and salty with a buttery coating that makes you feel like a kid taking your first bit of movie theater popcorn.
I don’t know about you, but there is no comparison between homemade and microwave popcorn. And once you learn how to make it my super easy way, you’ll ditch those little store-bought packets for good.
What You Need To Make Stove Top Popcorn
- Corn Kernels – white kernel or yellow kernel popcorn
- Olive Oil
- Butter
- Salt
- Heavy bottom pot or Dutch oven with a lid
- Serving Bowls
What Type Of Oil Is Best For Cooking Popcorn?
My favorite oil for making stovetop popcorn is extra virgin olive oil. I think it adds great taste with a bit of extra flavor. Also, olive oil has a high smoking point, making it great for homemade popcorn.
Other popular oils are coconut oil or canola oil. Grapeseed oil and other vegetable oils can also be used.
How Do You Make Popcorn Soft And Fluffy?
To keep the popcorn soft and fluffy without getting soggy, as the popcorn pops, tilt the lid on the pan to release any steam that’s built up. Once the popcorn kernels are completely popped, pour them into a bowl, then add the toppings.
Tips For Making Perfectly Popped Stove Top Popcorn
- Use a large pot or Dutch Oven to cook the popcorn. This will provide even heating that’s needed for cooking the kernels.
- Make sure the oil is at the right temperature. Place the pot on the burner over medium high heat, add the oil and place a couple of corn kernels in the pot. Once the kernels pop, add the remaining popcorn and cook.
- Shake the pot a few times as the batch of popcorn cooks. This will prevent hot spots and keep the popcorn moving.
- Season the popcorn immediately after pouring it into the serving bowl.
Seasoning Ideas For Popcorn
My favorite popcorn toppings are the classic combination of melted butter and salt, but there are so many more topping ideas to experiment with. Here’s a few to try:
- Parmesan cheese
- Ranch seasoning
- Taco seasoning
- Cinnamon sugar for a kettle corn type of vibe.
- Sprinkle on your own mix of herbs and spices to make it a healthy snack of your liking.
Craving More? Try These Snack Recipes
- Pimento Cheese Bites
- Million Dollar Dip
- Candied Pecans
- Cinnamon Sugar Crackers
- Ranch Fire Crackers
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup popcorn kernerls
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- salt, to taste
Instructions
- Add olive oil to a heavy bottom pot or Dutch oven. Add 2 corn kernels to the pot set over medium-high heat. Place lid on the pot. When the 2 kernels pop, pour in the remaining kernels.
- Place lid on and shake the pot. As the popcorn pops, occasionally shake the pot. When the kernels have stopped popping, turn off the heat and immediately pour the popcorn into the serving bowl.
- Sprinkle on salt, then drizzle with ½ of the melted butter. Toss the popcorn, drizzle on the remaining butter, taste, and add more salt if needed. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Crisp & Quick: Best Air-Fryer Recipes!
FREE EMAIL Bonus
My go-to air fryer recipes....you have to try these!
Craig
It tasted good, but I like it better when corn oil is used instead of olive oil