20 Best Flavored Popcorn Recipes

What can I add to popcorn for flavor?

Making homemade popcorn is cheaper and healthier than buying store-bought popcorn, but it can fall flat without any flavoring. Use one of our flavored popcorn recipes to jazz up your favorite movie night snack. Or for an even easier option, try these simple popcorn topping ideas:

• Garlic powder or garlic salt
• Dried parsley and grated Parmesan
• Nutritional yeast, which is a healthy—but still flavorful—alternative to cheese

Nacho Popcorn

My husband and I like to munch on this while watching TV. The nacho flavoring is a zesty alternative to butter and salt. —Linda Boehme, Fairmont, Minnesota

Chewy Caramel-Coated Popcorn

When I was a kid, my mom made this recipe often. I've adapted it to make it more chewy and gooey than her crunchy, nut-loaded version. I get requests to make this for every event that I host, and have never had a single leftover! —Shannon Dobos, Calgary, Alberta

Ranch Popcorn

What’s movie night at home without some popcorn to munch? Try a big tub of this buttery, showstopping blend. It’s easy, cheesy and finger-lickin’ good. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Striped Chocolate Popcorn

For a bake sale last year, I wanted to try something different. I’d seen chocolate popcorn in a candy shop and thought I’d try making it. This recipe was a great success. —Mary Schmittinger, Colgate, Wisconsin

Tex-Mex Popcorn

Spicy Southwest seasoning makes this snackin'-good popcorn ideal for any fiesta. —Katie Rose, Pewaukee, Wisconsin

Gingerbread Caramel Crunch

If you love gingerbread, you won't be able to resist this crispy, crunchy popcorn. Munch it yourself or share it as a tasty gift! —Lynne Weigle-Snow, Alexandria, Virginia

Vegan Popcorn Seasoning

This vegan popcorn seasoning will have everyone wanting more! It is a perfect base for experimenting with your favorite flavorings. —Rashanda Cobbins, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Rosemary-Parmesan Popcorn

Fresh herbs and real cheese make this popcorn a homemade favorite that will make you forget about store-bought seasoning mixes. —Dan Kelmenson, West Bloomfield, Michigan

Peppermint Popcorn

Crisp and minty, this simple popcorn snack is a hit with all 10 of our children. For variety, use whatever kind of candy you like. —Shirley Mars, Kent, Ohio

Three-Herb Popcorn

Try this seasoned treat for a tasty twist on plain popcorn. Mixed nuts add crunch and flavor but are optional. The next time you have cream soup or chili, sprinkle a small handful over individual servings. —Flo Burtnett, Gage, Oklahoma

Maple Crunch Popcorn

For a snack that's sure to bring smiles, try this medley of popcorn and pecans covered in a sweet and buttery coating.—Elmira Trombetti, Paducah, Kentucky

Parmesan Ranch Popcorn

Whether you need a quick gift idea or yummy munchies for movie night, we've got you covered with this cheesy twist on regular popped popcorn. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Chocolate-Mint Popcorn

I wrote a book called “20 New Ways to Enjoy Popcorn.” When I poll friends, they favor this recipe, a delicious treat for after-dinner coffee. — Polly Brunning, Thaxton, Virginia

Sweet & Salty Popcorn

There’s nothing like making memories with grandkids in the kitchen and seeing their excited, happy faces while they help. — Diane Smith, Pine Mountain, Georgia

Buffalo Ranch Popcorn

This zippy buffalo chicken flavored blend is sure to spice up your favorite snack. It's perfect for game time, movie time, or as a special after-school snack. Be sure to drizzle the sauce mixture over the popcorn gradually, otherwise you'll end up with soggy popcorn. —Jenny McCarthy, Sussex, Wisconsin

Marshmallow-Peanut Popcorn

My brother calls this combo of popcorn, marshmallows, peanuts and pretzels the “perfect popcorn." The taste is reminiscent of a Big Hunk candy bar. —Julie Perez, Idaho Falls, Idaho

Buttery Cajun Popcorn

Cheesy and spicy, this finger-lickin' snack with just a hint of lime is downright addictive! —Beth Stengel, North Hollywood, California

Savory Popcorn Seasoning

I love this popcorn seasoning recipe. Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat to a late-night treat. —Janice Campbell, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska

Sugar N Spice Popcorn

Our family can't get enough of this light, cinnamon-sweet popcorn. The baked kernels are wonderfully crunchy and coated just right. Try mixing some to have on hand as an anytime nibble.

St. Patrick's Day Popcorn

Everyone's eyes will be smilin' when they see this green popcorn. The emerald color gives this snack instant St. Patrick's Day appeal. —Karen Weber, Salem, Missouri