Learn A New Way To Make Cheap, Healthy Popcorn

On a warm summer night, one of my favorite things to do is curl up on the couch with a good movie, a thin blanket, and a bowl of fresh popcorn. But recently, I made a very sad discovery: It seems that microwave popcorn is loaded with all kinds of icky chemicals and preservatives. Who knew something as innocent and classic as popcorn could be bad for our health? That's why I was so excited to come across this new, delicious way to make my favorite movie-night snack. Not only is this quick and easy, but it's cheap, too! We decided to use ours with organic, melted butter. Sure, it's not the healthiest way to make a snack, but I like knowing that it's all-natural. For the same price as a few packets of popcorn, you can buy a bulk container of kernels that will last you for months! Also, if any kernels don't pop, you can just save them to reuse for your next bowl. I'll admit that I was hesitant about this at first — but when I tried it out, I was thrilled. This is one brilliant food hack I'll definitely be hanging on to! Will you be trying it out, too? Let us know below, and please SHARE!

To enjoy your popcorn in a healthier, cheaper way, you'll need to gather a few simple supplies: a jar of all-natural popcorn kernels, some butter, and a microwave-safe bowl and plate.

U.S. President Donald Trump, center, and Vice President J.D. Vance meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, left, in the Oval Office at the White House on Feb. 28, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Trump and Zelensky are meeting today to negotiate a preliminary agreement on sharing Ukraine’s mineral resources that Trump says will allow America to recoup aid provided to Kyiv while supporting Ukraine’s economy. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images/TNS)
Andrew Harnik/Getty Images/TNS

First, pour your kernels into your bowl. I didn't measure for this batch, but I tend to use about 1/4 cup of kernels.

Next, grab your butter. I'm using 2 Tbsp. here, but you can use as much — or as little — as you prefer.

Tiger Woods, Vanessa Trump
Carmen Mandato/TGL/TGL via Getty Images, Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

After that, place your microwave-safe plate on top of the bowl. Set the butter on top of the plate.

Donald Trump Jr. and Vanessa Trump
Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

Set the whole caboodle in your microwave, then cook it for about 2:45 to 3 minutes (depending on your microwave's wattage).

The plate not only allows air and heat to circulate within the bowl, but it prevents the kernels from wildly escaping.

When all your kernels are popped, carefully remove the dishes. (They'll be pretty hot, so you might want to use oven mitts.) Your butter should be all melted, so drizzle it over your fresh popcorn.

Salt it to taste, maybe throw in a few M&Ms, and you're ready for movie night! Will you be trying this out at home? Let us know below!

Please SHARE if you love cheap, healthy snacks!