How to Make Spicy Cajun Popcorn

It’s time for another spicy popcorn recipe! This time, we’re taking inspiration from the bold and vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine. 

The heart of this Cajun popcorn recipe is the seasoning — a blend of ingredients including paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, and garlic powder. It’s definitely something you’ll be hooked on. 

And the best part? It’s ridiculously fast (and fun) to make with your trusty Popper.

Check it out:

Cajun Popcorn Ingredients

• ½ cup kernels
• 4 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (feel free to adjust to your desired level of heat)
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Steps for Making Cajun Popcorn

Step 1: Make Cajun Seasoning

Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside.

PRO TIP: Use a spice grinder or food processor if you have one. If not, a mortar and pestle will do — you just need to give it elbow grease.

Step 2: Heat

Set your stovetop to medium heat. Let the Popper preheat for 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Oil

Pour oil into the Popper.

Step 4: Add Kernels

Drop 2-3 kernels into the pot. Add in the rest of the kernels when the first one pops, then put the Popper’s lid on. 

Step 5: Turn and Pop

Turn the crank clockwise as the kernels pop. Once popping slows, take the Popper off the heat and slowly remove the lid. 

Step 6: Combine

Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over your popcorn, put the lid back on, and give the pot a few turns (or shakes) to evenly distribute the flavor. 

Step 7: Serve

Pour the cajun popcorn into a huge bowl, give steam a few minutes to escape, and then enjoy it while watching a movie or playing Monopoly with your family! 

More Cajun Popcorn Tips

• For best results, we recommend using the freshest spices. If yours have been sitting in the pantry for a while, the popcorn won’t taste as amazing.  

• While we think coconut oil does the best job at popping corn, you can also choose to experiment with bacon grease or other oils.  

• If you like your popcorn extra spicy, don’t hesitate to add more cayenne pepper or even a pinch of red pepper flakes. 

• Consider pairing your Cajun popcorn with a dipping sauce. Go for something creamy or tangy, like ranch dressing or garlic aioli, to add another layer of flavor to the snack. 

Want More Popcorn Recipes?

We hope you enjoy your Cajun popcorn — let us know what you think in the comments.

If you’d like to make other popcorn recipes, then check out our other blog posts for inspiration. You might want to try this sriracha popcorn next!