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A bowl of spiced Parmesan popcorn ready for snacking

Spicy Parmesan Party Popcorn

A crunchy, zesty popcorn snack with rich Parmesan cheese and a spicy kick, perfect for movie nights and gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 130
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Popcorn
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil Not required if air popping with a popcorn maker.
  • ½ cup popping corn
  • Olive oil spray
For the Seasoning
  • ½ to ⅔ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Finely grated.
  • ¾ tsp fine salt Use fine salt to ensure it sticks; avoid flakes.
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper Adjust to taste.
  • ½ tsp paprika Optional for extra color.

Method
 

Popping the Popcorn
  1. If using stovetop, heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Check if the oil is ready by dropping in a few kernels; if they spin slowly, it's ready.
  3. Add the remaining popcorn kernels to the pot and cover with a lid.
  4. Gently shake the pot every now and then as the kernels start popping.
  5. Once the popping slows, remove the pot from heat and transfer the popcorn to a large bowl.
Seasoning the Popcorn
  1. In a small bowl, mix together the fine salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
  2. In a large serving bowl, add one-third of the popped popcorn. Spray with olive oil and sprinkle with one-third of the cheese and spice mix.
  3. Repeat the layering process two more times, ensuring everything is well-seasoned.
  4. Serve immediately for the best taste.

Notes

For a lighter snack, use air-popped popcorn with olive oil spray. Adjust spice levels to taste and feel free to experiment with other cheeses or spices.