How to Make Paper Bag Popcorn, Step by Step
Updated: Jan. 04, 2021Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links.
Making paper bag popcorn in the microwave is one of the easiest ways to make the homemade version of your favorite movie snack.
As an avid home cook, I try to pull out all the stops when I have people over. But the recipe that gets the most remarks (and the most copycats!) is so easy it’s hardly a recipe at all: paper bag popcorn (aka, DIY microwave popcorn).
Using a plain brown paper bag, I can make a batch of popcorn in less than 3 minutes and everyone flips for the trick. Sure, store-bought microwave popcorn is delicious (here are the best microwave popcorn brands). But it’s also expensive and coated with unhealthy chemicals. On the other hand, paper bag popcorn is easy, fast and surprisingly healthy. Here’s how to make it.
How to Make Paper Bag Popcorn
Making paper bag popcorn is one of the three main ways to make homemade popcorn. This recipe makes enough for one to three people, depending on how many kernels you use—and how hungry you are!
You’ll need:
- Popcorn kernels, between 1/4 and 1/2 cup
- A brown paper bag (a typical lunch bag is just the right size)
Directions
Step 1: Pour kernels into the bag
For a snack-size serving for one person, use 1/4 cup of kernels. Use 1/3 cup if you want a good-sized portion for two (or dinner for one, if it’s been one of those days). To completely fill the paper bag with popped popcorn, use 1/2 cup of kernels.
Pour the kernels directly into the bag. No need to add anything else!
Editor’s tip: The type of popcorn kernels you use—yellow or white—may affect the texture and shape of your popcorn.
Step 2: Close the bag
Fold the top of the bag over twice to prevent the kernels from spilling. If your microwave is on the small side, you might need to fold in each corner to allow the bag to spin freely as it heats.
Step 3: Pop the popcorn
Microwave the kernels on high heat for 2 to 3 minutes. The exact timing will vary depending on the type of kernels you use and your microwave’s power.
Keep an ear on the microwave and stop it once the popping slows and there are several seconds between pops. Let the bag sit for a minute before opening—the bag will be hot and a few more kernels will pop.
That’s it! Go ahead and fold up the bag to use for another batch.
Tips for Making Paper Bag Popcorn
What can I add to paper bag popcorn?
Like any homemade popcorn, paper bag popcorn is a blank slate for toppings and flavors. Melted butter and salt are the standby, of course, but there’s no need to stop there. Season with cinnamon and sugar, toss with cheese powder or nutritional yeast, or try any of our flavored popcorn recipes.
Is it safe to pop popcorn in a brown paper bag?
Brown paper bags aren’t technically microwave safe (the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service advises against putting brown paper bags in the microwave), but the paper bag method is a tried-and-true way to make homemade popcorn. To be safe, keep an eye on the microwave as the popcorn is popping.
How do you make microwave popcorn without a paper bag?
If you don’t have a paper bag or aren’t comfortable with the idea of sticking one in the microwave, there are plenty of microwave-safe popcorn makers you can buy. This Ecolution microwave popcorn popper is one of the best popcorn makers on the market.
Apart from the microwave, you can make popcorn on the stove using a large pot, or use a popcorn maker to make air popped popcorn.
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
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. —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 green color gives this snack instant St. Patrick's Day appeal. —Karen Weber, Salem, MissouriTeddy Nykiel, Taste of Home Associate Digital Editor, contributed to this article.
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