Microwave Popcorn Instructions – How To Make Popcorn In The Microwave

Making popcorn in the microwave is quick, easy, and hassle-free! This recipe guarantees perfectly popped, movie-theater-style popcorn in minutes, with no worries about burning or undercooking. Add your favorite toppings to customize the flavor and enjoy a delicious snack for any occasion.

Have a bag of microwave popcorn? Follow these easy instructions for cooking popcorn in a microwave and you will have fresh, movie-style popcorn in minutes!

Why You’ll Love Microwave Popcorn

• Quick and Easy: With just two minutes in the microwave, you’ll have a delicious snack ready to enjoy. It’s perfect for busy days, unexpected guests, or late-night cravings.
• Customizable: You can add your favorite toppings, from savory spices to sweet drizzles, making each batch unique to your taste. It’s a versatile snack for everyone!
• Healthy Option: Skip the store-bought, pre-seasoned bags, and control exactly what goes on your popcorn. This allows for healthier, low-calorie snacking without compromising flavor.
• Minimal Cleanup: All you need is a microwave and a bowl. There’s no need for pots, pans, or special equipment, making cleanup a breeze.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a movie night, party, or just spending time with family, popcorn is a universally loved snack that always hits the spot.

Microwave Popcorn

Making popcorn in the microwave is super easy and quick. Just follow the instructions below and you won’t have to worry about burning your popcorn or not cooking it enough ever again!

You will have delicious movie-theater style popcorn in no time at all. It makes a great movie or party snack! Your family will love it.

You can any microwave popcorn brand – it will work!

You can also add your own seasonings to customize the popcorn to your taste!

Want to make popcorn but don’t have a microwave? Check out this recipe for air fryer popcorn: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UneOa1cojRo&ab_channel=MelanieCooks

Ingredients for Microwave Popcorn

• Microwaveable Popcorn – The star of this recipe, available in various flavors or plain for you to season as you like.

For exact measurements, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Microwave Popcorn

• Microwave – Essential for cooking the popcorn quickly and efficiently.
• Bowl – Perfect for serving your freshly popped popcorn and catching any added toppings or seasonings.

How to Cook Popcorn in the Microwave

First remove one of the packages of popcorn from the plastic wrapping.

Make note of which side the popcorn bag should be placed down. It will say “this side down” or something similar. Be sure to place the correct side facing down in your microwave.

Now most microwaveable popcorn will say to cook for 1 minute and 45 seconds, but I find that it is not enough time for most microwaves. If you want to fully cook your popcorn, set the microwave for 2 minutes.

Once you have cooked the popcorn, the bag will be inflated and very hot. Carefully remove from microwave.

Pour into a large bowl for serving. You can eat it as is or add some additional toppings or seasonings. Delicious!

Here are some popcorn topping ideas. Get Creative and change up your plain popcorn!

• Sprinkle on some cinnamon and sugar
• Chili powder
• Taco seasoning
• Nutritional yeast (also a great cheese substitute)
• Curry powder
• Mix in some sriracha sauce and garlic powder
• Toss with a package of powdered ranch seasoning!

What to Serve with Microwave Popcorn

Looking for some other light snacks to serve along with your popcorn? Check out some of these great ideas for healthier options when serving friends or family at a gathering. They will love these gluten free and vegetarian options!

• Air Fryer Apple Chips
• Air Fryer Roasted Chickpeas – So Crispy!
• Keto Parmesan Cheese Crisps Recipe
• Baked Beet Chips Recipe
• Healthy Hazelnut Chocolate Truffles Energy Balls

Tips for Success

• Check the Package Instructions: Most microwave popcorn bags will indicate which side should face down during cooking. Follow these instructions to ensure even popping.
• Listen Closely: Popping times can vary by microwave. Stop the microwave when the popping slows to about 2 seconds between pops to avoid burning.
• Handle with Care: The bag will be very hot when it’s done cooking. Use oven mitts or a towel to remove it and open it slowly to avoid steam burns.
• Customize Your Popcorn: While plain popcorn is delicious, adding your favorite toppings can elevate it. Try options like melted butter and salt, powdered cheese, or a pinch of cinnamon sugar for variety.
• Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers (though that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container to keep them crisp. Avoid adding wet toppings to the entire batch if you plan to store some for later.

Variations and Substitutions

• Sweet Popcorn: Transform your plain popcorn into a dessert by adding melted chocolate, caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar and cinnamon. These sweet variations are perfect for holiday treats or dessert buffets.
• Savory Popcorn: If you love bold flavors, try sprinkling your popcorn with chili powder, taco seasoning, or nutritional yeast for a cheesy, vegan-friendly option. You can also mix in garlic powder or onion powder for a more robust taste.
• Butter-Free Option: For a lighter version, skip the butter entirely and use a small spritz of olive oil spray to help seasonings stick. This option is great for those watching their calorie intake.
• Spicy Kick: Add a bit of heat to your popcorn with a drizzle of sriracha or a dusting of cayenne pepper. Mix well to coat each kernel evenly.
• Mix-Ins: Toss your popcorn with roasted nuts, pretzel bites, or even dried cranberries for a unique snack mix. This adds texture and variety, making it perfect for parties or trail mixes.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftover popcorn, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and crisp. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days. Avoid adding toppings that could make the popcorn soggy if you plan to store it.
• Reheating: To refresh leftover popcorn, spread it out on a baking sheet and warm it in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. Alternatively, you can place it in the microwave for 20–30 seconds on a microwave-safe plate, though this might make it slightly less crisp.
• Avoid Refrigeration: Refrigerating popcorn can introduce moisture, leading to sogginess and a loss of texture. Always store it in a dry, cool place.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the popcorn is done?

Listen for the popping to slow down to about 2 seconds between pops. This is the perfect time to stop the microwave to avoid burning the popcorn.

Can I cook popcorn without oil or butter?

Yes! Most microwaveable popcorn bags contain enough natural moisture to pop without added oil or butter. If you’re seasoning it afterward, a light spritz of cooking spray can help the toppings stick.

Why is my popcorn burning before all the kernels pop?

Microwaves heat unevenly, which can cause some kernels to burn while others remain unpopped. Stopping the microwave as soon as the popping slows down can help minimize burning.

What are some healthier seasoning options?

For a healthier snack, skip the butter and opt for seasonings like nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, or a touch of salt. You can also add a small amount of olive oil spray to help the seasonings stick.

Can I reuse unpopped kernels?

Yes, you can repop the unpopped kernels! Simply place them in a paper bag, fold the top over tightly, and microwave for about a minute. Be sure to monitor closely to avoid burning.

More Microwave Recipes

Do you love using your microwave to cook food? Or live in a dorm room without access to a kitchen? Check out some of my easy microwaveable recipes below! You can cook lots of yummy food in the microwave!

• Microwave Cinnamon Apple Slices
• How To Cook Frozen Edamame In The Microwave
• Gluten-Free Banana Bread Mug Cake Microwave Recipe
• How To Cook Brussels Sprouts In The Microwave
• How To Cook Sweet Potatoes In A Microwave
• How To Cook Broccoli In A Microwave

See also dessert popcorn recipes!

Want to try something sweet instead of savory? Check out my easy recipes for delicious dessert-style popcorn!

• Chocolate Covered Popcorn Recipe
• Christmas Popcorn With M&Ms And Marshmallows
• Homemade Caramel Popcorn Recipe
• Cinnamon Brown Sugar Popcorn Recipe