Best Overall
Orville Redenbacher Microwave Popcorn
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Popcorn is delicious in all forms and flavors, but fresh ones just hit another level. The days of buying expensive popcorn machines are over because many brands now offer microwavable alternatives that you can make at home without any extra accessories. If the idea of popping flavorful popcorn kernels at home strikes you, we've reviewed the best microwave popcorn of 2024 and can safely say that the Orville Redenbacher Microwave Popcorn is our favorite on this carefully curated list. To help you find a flavor that hits all the right notes, here's a complete buying guide to satisfy your popcorn cravings!
Microwave Popcorn: A Buyer’s Guide
Microwave popcorn is a simple and satisfying alternative that helps you create fresh and warm snacks without going overboard with fats and calories. While you can pop popcorn in a popcorn popper, not everyone has the means or time to go through the process. For those short on time, microwave popcorn is the solution. Different brands offer various flavors and ingredients to consider. In our buying guide, we've covered the essential factors along with methods to create the perfect popcorn in the microwave.
What to Consider When Buying Microwave Popcorn
Quantity
Before placing an order, you must know the quantity of popcorn you require. Users who host many movie nights or have families with occasional gatherings always prefer keeping extra in the house. Contrarily, if you’re trying to shed some extra pounds, consider keeping a limited range to avoid overeating. The quantity you choose in most cases should suffice for at least one month to prevent frequent purchases.
Flavor
When it comes to flavor, microwave popcorn is also incredibly diverse. From simple butter and cheese options to more exciting flavors like barbecue and jalapeno, there are so many options to choose from. The flavors you pick depend on personal preference and the audience's age. For instance, you might consider using cheese or butter flavor instead of jalapeno for a kids’ movie night.
Ingredients
Most brands now offer healthy ingredients with low fats and sodium content. However, it is essential to go through the list to see whether it fits your diet plan or not. Popcorn with non-conventional flavors might be higher in fat and sodium quantity and calories. So, consider buying plain ones to stay within your daily nutritional goals.
How to Pop Kernels in a Microwave
Popping kernels in a microwave is a lot more challenging than we think. A simple fluctuation in temperature can completely burn them or leave them raw and brittle in the end. There are two ways to use a microwave for popcorn: with or without the pack.
Popping with pack
In most cases, people just read the instructions given on the pack and place it in the microwave. Within 90 seconds, you can enjoy fresh snacks that smell absolutely divine. Unfortunately, uneven cooking is quite common in this method and leads to waste or burnt kernels. You need to keep your settings on medium-high and constantly observe the grains as they pop in the bag. Also, spreading flavor across the back can be tricky if it's not distributed properly.
Popping without pack
Some people like to go unconventional and pop their favorite popcorn without the pack. Simply open the packet and transfer the kernels to the popcown bowl you wish to serve them in. Use only microwavable plastic. Scrape any excess flavor on the pack and add it to the bowl. Cover the bowl with a lid (or plastic plate) and set the time at three minutes with medium-high heat. This is a useful method that helps mix the flavoring thoroughly, but you need to pause the oven and stir once or twice to ensure every kernel gets adequate heat to pop.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: Orville Redenbacher Microwave Popcorn
- Premium Quantity: Pop Secret Microwave Popcorn
- Rich Flavor: Pop Weaver Microwave Popcorn
- Family-Friendly: Act Ii Microwave Popcorn
- Variation In Flavor: Jolly Time Microwave Popcorn
Reviews
Premium Quantity
Pop Secret Microwave Popcorn
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Rich Flavor
Pop Weaver Microwave Popcorn
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Family-Friendly
Act Ii Microwave Popcorn
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Variation in Flavor
Jolly Time Microwave Popcorn
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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FAQs
Are there any limitations to eating microwave popcorn?
If you have lung disease or are allergic to any ingredient, we recommend not indulging in microwave popcorn.
How long does a microwave popcorn last?
Before opening the seal, microwave popcorn can last for months after its expiry. Plus, you can store them for over a week after popping them.
Are microwave popcorn keto-friendly?
Popcorns are made from corn, the main source of gluten and carbohydrates. People following extra low-carb diets like keto and paleo should avoid eating them.
How to make perfect microwave popcorn?
To ensure perfectly cooked and flavorful results every time follow these instructions:place one packet of unpopped kernels into a brown paper bag and close securely, place bag inside your microwave on high heat for approximately 2-3 minutes (depending on your microwave), remove bag carefully, open bag with caution as steam may escape, add desired flavorings such as butter, salt or other spices, and enjoy!
What's the difference between movie theater popcorn and microwave popcorn?
The main difference between movie theater popcorn and microwave popcorn is the flavor. Movie theater popcorn is traditionally made from unpopped kernels that are cooked in oil, giving it a more distinct, salty-sweet flavor. On the other hand, microwave popcorn is usually flavored with buttery seasoning or artificial flavors, and has a less intense taste than movie theater popcorn. Additionally, movie theater popcorn often contains more saturated fat due to the oil used in the cooking process, while microwave popcorn tends to be lower in calories and fat. Finally, movie theater popcorn can be more expensive than microwave popcorn due to the effort required to make it.