How to Cook Popcorn in the Microwave

paper bag with popped popcorn inside microwave.

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Make fresh, homemade microwave popcorn using whole kernels and a simple brown paper bag. This quick and budget-friendly method gives you light, fluffy popcorn that’s perfect for butter, salt, or any sweet or salty topping you love.

Prep Time2

Cook Time2

Total Time4

Course: Snacks

Cuisine: American

Keyword: How to cook popcorn in the microwave

Servings: servings

Calories: 127kcal

Author: Lois

Equipment

Brown Paper Lunch Bags

Ingredients

¼ cup popcorn kernels
1 tablespoon butter; melted
Salt; to taste

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Instructions

Add ¼ cup popcorn kernels to a clean brown paper lunch bag. Fold the top over twice to seal.
Place the bag upright in the microwave and cook on HIGH for 1½ to 3 minutes, stopping when the popping slows to about 2 seconds between pops.
Carefully open the bag, pour the popcorn into a large bowl, and season with melted butter, salt, or your favorite toppings.

Notes

Tips

Fold the top of the paper bag tightly so the kernels stay contained while popping.
Stop the microwave as soon as the popping slows to avoid burning the popcorn.
Season the popcorn while it’s warm so the butter and salt stick better.

Storage & Make Ahead

Store popped popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Not recommended for freezing, as the texture becomes soft.
Pop the kernels just before serving for the best flavor and crunch.

Please note: Brown paper bags aren’t specifically designed for microwave use, so keep an eye on the popcorn while it cooks. It’s always safer to stop the microwave early and leave a few unpopped kernels than to overcook it and risk scorching.

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