Enjoy movie theater popcorn in the comfort of your own home with this classic Buttered Popcorn Recipe.

Buttery popcorn being drizzled with melted butter in a white bowl, perfect for homemade movie snacks.

Ah, there’s nothing quite like cozying up on the couch with your pajamas on to binge-watch series or immerse yourself in a good movie. For me, it’s the perfect way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon or leave the stresses of the workday behind. Of course, this little indulgence demands a proper snack, and nine times out of ten, you can bet I’ll be reaching into a huge bowl of popcorn. Sorry, chips and dip!

Sure, I could just buy the ready-made stuff, tear into the bag, and munch away. Making my own popcorn, however, is not only a joy but also a nostalgic activity that throws me back a few decades to when I was a little girl. On Friday nights, my brother and I would park ourselves in front of the television to watch back-to-back sitcoms like Full House and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air while my mom kept us happy with a seemingly endless supply of homemade popcorn. If I close my eyes, I can still hear those kernels popping and Mom asking if we wanted it sweet or salty. For us, the answer was always salty—and deliciously buttery!

Our crave-worthy buttered popcorn recipe proves that making your own popcorn is easy and much more affordable than buying it in a bag. The next time you’re snuggling up in front of the television, stop by the stove first and whip up a batch!

Golden popcorn kernels in a bowl, with salt, butter, and a popcorn machine lid on a light surface.

Add more flavor

The best thing about this recipe is that it allows plenty of room to give it your own touch! If you love savory flavors, consider stirring grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and dried rosemary into the butter before adding it to the popcorn. Are you a fan of spicy, zesty flavors? Try adding cayenne pepper and lime zest to the butter.

Those who prefer a sweet variation can add some cinnamon and sugar to the butter or toss the buttered popcorn with a drizzle of maple syrup. For the ultimate treat, melt a bar of dark chocolate, drizzle it over the popcorn, and finish with a pinch of sea salt flakes!

Buttered popcorn in a white bowl with hand picking popcorn, snack, movie night, crunchy popcorn, homemade popcorn, Baked Bree style.

How do I store leftovers?

Let the popcorn cool completely before placing it in an airtight container or Ziploc bag. You can store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigerating, as it will render the popcorn soft.

Butter melting over popcorn in a large bowl, close-up of hot butter pouring on freshly popped popcorn.

Serving suggestions

Inviting friends over for movie night? Treat them to a delicious spread that includes cheesy Homemade Goldfish and a bowl of Homemade Potato Chips with a creamy and cooling French Onion Dip. If you’re looking to serve warm snacks instead, try our irresistibly crispy Mozzarella Sticks or pass around a platter of these tender Grape Jelly Meatballs.

Buttered popcorn in a pot with salt and popcorn kernels on a table.

Buttered Popcorn Recipe

BakedBree

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 5

Total Time 10

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Servings

Calories 306 kcal

Ingredients

3/4 cup butter melted, divided
1 cup popcorn kernels
2 teaspoons fine sea salt

Instructions

Place a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven on medium heat to warm up. Pour in 3 tablespoons of the butter. Add 2 kernels, place the lid on, and listen for them to pop.
Once the two kernels have popped, add the rest of the popcorn. It should cover the bottom of the pot in a single layer. Cover and listen for the popping to get really rapid. This takes 3-4 minutes. Place the lid slightly ajar to let out some of the steam. When the popping starts slowing down, turn off the heat.
While the popcorn is still hot, pour over the rest of the melted butter and sprinkle on the salt. Toss well to coat.