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Jalapeño Popcorn in Just 10 Minutes!

Jalapeño Popcorn – Crispy, Buttery, and Spicy Snack
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This Jalapeño Popcorn is the perfect spicy and savory snack for movie nights, game days, or anytime you crave something bold. The buttery crunch of fresh popcorn pairs perfectly with the heat of jalapeños, making every bite deliciously addictive. This recipe is easy to make, highly customizable, and ready in minutes! Try it with cheddar cheese for an extra indulgent twist or add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for depth.

  • Author: Julia Hartman
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Essential Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil, divided
  • 6 slices pickled jalapeño peppers, drained (or more to taste)
  • 1/3 cup popcorn kernels
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1 (1-ounce) packet ranch dressing mix

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a cheesy twist)
  • A pinch of cayenne pepper (for extra heat)
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free, cheesy flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky depth)

Instructions

Step 1: Infuse the Oil with Jalapeño Flavor

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced jalapeños and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Remove the jalapeños and set them aside—your oil is now infused with spicy flavor!

Step 2: Pop the Popcorn

  1. Add the remaining vegetable oil to the pot and heat until shimmering.
  2. Drop two popcorn kernels into the oil. Once they pop, add the rest of the popcorn.
  3. Cover with a lid, leaving a small gap to allow steam to escape.
  4. Shake the pot occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even popping.
  5. When popping slows to 1 pop every 3 seconds, remove the pot from heat.

Step 3: Flavor the Popcorn

  1. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the popcorn.
  2. Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix while tossing to coat evenly.
  3. If making cheesy jalapeño popcorn, add the shredded cheddar and toss.

Step 4: Final Touches

 

  1. Mix in the sautéed jalapeños for extra heat.
  2. For a flavor boost, sprinkle smoked paprika or cayenne pepper.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy your bold, spicy, and buttery snack!

Notes

💡 Pro Tips for the Best Jalapeño Popcorn:

  • Keep the lid slightly open while popping to release steam for ultra-crispy popcorn.
  • Toss popcorn in a large bowl for even seasoning.
  • Use fresh jalapeños for a spicier, fresher taste instead of pickled ones.

🔥 Customizations & Variations:

  • Cheesy Jalapeño Popcorn – Add parmesan or cheddar for a savory boost.
  • Sweet & Spicy Popcorn – Mix in honey or maple syrup for a sweet-heat balance.
  • Keto-Friendly Option – Use coconut oil & nutritional yeast instead of butter & ranch mix.
  • Gluten-Free – Ensure your ranch seasoning is certified gluten-free.

🥶 Storage Tips:

 

  • Store leftover popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature.
  • Best eaten within 24-48 hours for maximum crunch.
  • Reheat by spreading it on a baking sheet and warming in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savordelish.com/jalapeno-popcorn-recipe/