How to Make the Ultimate Pizza Popcorn

Popcorn and pizza, anyone? We know this mashup isn’t quite as popular as popcorn with M&M’s or pizza with pasta, but give it a chance, and don’t be surprised if it disappears in minutes!

Pizza popcorn takes the zesty, addicting flavors you enjoy about pizza and turns it into a light, more guilt-free snack. You can’t go wrong serving it at movie night or during game day! 

Here’s how to make this gourmet treat using your trusty Popper:

Pizza Popcorn Ingredients

• ½ cup kernels
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons tomato powder (or finely crushed sun-dried tomatoes)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼  teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt, to taste

Pizza Popcorn Directions

Step 1: Prep Pizza Popcorn Seasoning

In a small bowl, mix parmesan cheese, tomato powder, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them) then set aside. 

Step 2: Heat

Set your stove to medium heat and preheat your Popper for 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 3: Pour Oil

Pour olive oil into the Popper.

Step 4: Add Kernels

Toss 2 to 3 kernels into the pot. Pour the rest when the first kernel pops, then cover your Popper.

Step 5: Turn

Turn the Popper’s crank clockwise as the kernels pop to keep them from burning. 

Step 6: Remove

Take your Popper off the heat when popping slows and remove the lid.

Step 7: Season

Drizzle melted butter over your freshly popped popcorn, then toss the Popper to distribute it evenly. Once that’s done, sprinkle the pizza popcorn seasoning and toss the pot again or shake it well. 

Step 8: Serve

 Pour your pizza popcorn into a huge bowl and dig in! 

More Pizza Popcorn Tips

• Add finely grated mozzarella cheese for extra cheesiness.  

• Can’t find tomato powder? Use finely crushed sun-dried tomatoes or even a small amount of tomato paste mixed with the melted butter.

• Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some cayenne pepper for a spicier pizza popcorn.

• This isn’t the only way to make pizza popcorn! You can include more toppings if you want. Throw pepperoni and bacon bits into the mix, or to make it healthier, use dehydrated bell peppers or dried onions.

A Pizza Goodness in Every Handful 

While real, fresh-out-of-the-oven pizza is tough to beat, if you’re after a light yet satisfying snack that reminds you of your favorite comfort food, pizza popcorn will hit the spot! 

Now you can follow this Italian popcorn recipe to a T or customize it with your go-to toppings — the choice is yours.

Want even more popcorn recipes and snacking inspiration? Check out our blog or share your suggestions down below!