How To Make Stovetop Popcorn in a Dutch Oven

Yes, you CAN make perfect popcorn without a popcorn maker or microwave. Find out how to make popcorn in a Dutch oven on the stovetop for a fun snack!

Popping popcorn in a Dutch oven is as easy as heating the oil and adding the kernels. It’s so easy to whip up for a fast snack and can be enjoyed so many ways!

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about Making popcorn in a dutch oven

Only 3 Ingredients!

Popcorn can be such a simple, healthy snack and it only takes a couple ingredients I’m sure you already have around the house: popcorn kernels, oil and salt!

quick homemade snack

You can whip up a big bowl of popcorn in less than 10 minutes on the stovetop!

Healthy Snack

Did you know popcorn is high in fiber and contains antioxidants? Depending on how it’s prepared, it can be a low-calorie snack that is a great addition to a weight-loss diet.

Homemade popcorn is obviously, so much better for you than movie theater popcorn and flavored microwave popcorn! They’re almost always made with ultra refined oils and coated in artificial flavor made from chemicals and preservatives.

Delicious

And of course, popcorn is just so yummy and fun! The perfect snack to enjoy with a movie, as an afternoon snack or a side with lunch.

what you need to make watermelon popsicles

ingredients

• Popcorn Kernels – You can use any dried corn that is labeled “popcorn”.
• Oil – While you can use any kind of cooking oil you have on hand, olive oil and unrefined coconut oils are the healthiest options and will give your popcorn the best flavor.
• Salt – Salt to taste.
• Butter (Optional) – My favorite way to enjoy homemade popcorn is with a light drizzle of butter. Tossing the popcorn until it’s evenly coated.

Flavoring Ideas

How to make popcorn in a dutch oven

Heat – Add the oil and a couple of popcorn kernels to the Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and heat over medium-high heat until you hear the popcorn kernels pop.

Add the Popcorn – When the popcorn kernels have popped, you’ll know that the oil has heated to the right temperature to pop the rest of the popcorn. Add the remaining 1 cup of popcorn kernels and salt.

Cook – Replace the lid (leave a slight crack to prevent too much steam from building up in the pot) and reduce heat to low, cooking for about 3 minutes. Give the pot a shimmy or shake every 30 seconds or so to keep the popcorn from burning.

Remove From Heat – When you don’t hear any popping for several seconds, remove the Dutch oven from the stove and remove the lid.

Transfer to a Bowl – Pour the popcorn into a large bowl. Discard any un-popped kernels. Toss with melted butter if using and season with salt to taste.

tips for success

Serve – Homemade popcorn is best enjoyed right away for best flavor and texture.

Store – Leftover popcorn can be sealed in an airtight container for up to a week.

Variations – Try switching things up from time to time using these different popcorn toppings:

• Salt and Black Pepper
• Red Pepper Flakes of Chili Powder with Lime Zest
• Drizzle of Honey and Cinnamon
• Nutritional Yeast
• Cheddar Seasoning
• Ranch Dip Seasoning
• Premade Popcorn Seasonings

FAQ about dutch oven popcorn

What type of oil is best for popping popcorn in a Dutch oven?

Any neutral flavored oil will work for making stovetop popcorn. Olive oil and coconut oil are the healthiest options, much better than seed oils or highly processed oils like canola and vegetable oils.

How much oil should I use for popping popcorn in a Dutch oven?

1/4 cup of oil should be used for 1 cup of popcorn kernels.

Do I need to preheat the Dutch oven before adding oil and popcorn?

Yes, it’s best to add the popcorn kernels when the oil is hot enough to pop them. Preheat the oil in a Dutch oven along with a couple of kernels. When you hear the kernels pop, the oil has reached the correct temperature and the rest of the popcorn can be added.

How do I prevent popcorn from burning in a Dutch oven?

To keep the popcorn from burning in the hot oil, give the Dutch oven a shimmy or shake every 20 seconds or so while it is popping to keep the kernels evenly coated in the oil.

Can I use a lid while popping popcorn in a Dutch oven?

Using a lid while making stovetop popcorn keeps the hot kernels from popping right out of the pot and potentially burning someone or something.

It is a good idea to leave the lid slightly at an angle to give the steam a way of escaping so that the popcorn doesn’t end up chewy from too much moisture being in the pot while it pops.

More healthy Homemade Popsicle Recipes

If you liked this recipe, I think you’ll really enjoy these other homemade snack recipes on the blog:

• Healthy Fudgesicles
• Rice Crispy Treats Sweetened With Dates
• Healthy Berry Jello
• Crunchy Granola Bars
• Instant Pot Vanilla Yogurt

I hope you love making popcorn in a Dutch oven now! If you make them, I’d love for you to come back and leave a comment and rating so that I know how you like them!

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