Dinner

Pizza Popcorn

Name: Pizza Popcorn
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 cups popped popcorn (about 1/3 cup unpopped kernels); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon tomato powder or pizza seasoning (optional for stronger flavor)

Bysarra August 16, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Pizza popcorn is a savory and flavorful snack that brings together the beloved taste of pizza with the irresistible crunch of popcorn. This easy-to-make treat is seasoned with classic Italian herbs and a touch of cheese, making it perfect for movie nights, parties, or simply when you’re craving something salty and cheesy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pizza popcorn recipe is incredibly simple to prepare and requires only a few pantry staples. It delivers the familiar and comforting flavor of pizza without the need for dough, sauce, or an oven. It’s a fun and unique twist on regular popcorn that can be made in minutes and customized to your liking. Whether you’re serving a crowd or looking for a quick snack, pizza popcorn is a winning option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Popped popcorn (air-popped or stove-popped)
Olive oil or melted butter
Grated Parmesan cheese
Dried oregano
Dried basil
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt, to taste
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Directions

Prepare your popcorn using your preferred method (air-popped or stovetop).
Place the popcorn in a large mixing bowl.
Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over the popcorn while gently tossing to coat evenly.
In a small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the popcorn, tossing continuously to ensure an even coating.
If desired, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Serve immediately or store for later.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings and takes about 10 minutes to prepare from start to finish.

Variations

Cheesy blend: Add a mix of grated mozzarella and Parmesan for a more indulgent flavor.
Vegan version: Use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan and substitute olive oil for butter.
Spicy version: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Herb explosion: Add thyme or rosemary for a more complex herb profile.
Smoky flavor: Use smoked paprika for a rich, smoky taste reminiscent of wood-fired pizza.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pizza popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To restore its crispness, reheat it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes on a baking sheet, checking frequently to prevent over-toasting.

FAQs

What kind of popcorn works best for this recipe?

Air-popped popcorn or stovetop-popped popcorn works best as it allows better control over oil and seasoning.

Can I use microwave popcorn?

It’s not recommended, as most microwave popcorn varieties come pre-seasoned and may not pair well with the pizza flavorings.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use olive oil instead of butter.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all the ingredients used (especially the Parmesan) are certified gluten-free.

How can I make the popcorn extra crispy?

Ensure the popcorn is fully cooled and dry before adding oil and seasonings. You can also reheat it briefly in the oven after seasoning.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

You can, but dried herbs coat the popcorn more evenly. If using fresh, finely chop them and use sparingly.

What cheese alternatives work well?

Nutritional yeast, grated Romano, or a vegan cheese blend can be used depending on dietary preferences.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s mildly spicy with red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the level of heat to your liking or omit the flakes entirely.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, prepare and store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven before serving if needed.

What’s the best way to evenly coat the popcorn?

Toss the popcorn in a large bowl while gradually adding oil and seasonings to ensure even distribution.

Conclusion

Pizza popcorn is a delightful snack that merges two favorites into one irresistible treat. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a great option for any occasion—from casual snacking to party appetizers. Customizable, flavorful, and easy to store, it’s a must-try for any popcorn or pizza lover

sarra