Instant Pot Popcorn

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Created On: March 9, 2024&nbsp|Updated: March 9, 2024| 22 Comments

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$1.39

$0.17

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The recipe prices will vary based on fluctuating grocery costs. Please use what is posted as a guide.

Calling all movie lovers! Craving that delicious movie theater popcorn but want to stay in the house? This easy Instant Pot recipe is your answer! Made with just three ingredients in about 20 minutes, you can enjoy perfectly popped, flavorful popcorn from the comfort of your couch.

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Our budget-friendly popcorn costs about $1.39 to make. It makes eight servings for around $0.17 per serving.

Table of Contents

What You’ll Love About This Instant Pot Popcorn:

Cost-effective:Making popcorn at home is much cheaper (and tastes better!) than buying microwaveable bags, and you can control the quality of the ingredients. No more fake butter!
Quick and Convenient:This recipe takes only 20 minutes to prepare, making it the perfect snack for any occasion. You’ll only need a few ingredients and simple steps to make a big batch of fresh popcorn.
Crispy and fluffy:No more soggy, sad popcorn! This Instant Pot recipe ensures perfectly popped kernels that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Ingredients & Estimated Cost:

Recipe Cost: $1.39

Per Serving: $0.17

1 teaspoon salt –$0.01
4 Tablespoons refined coconut oil – $0.48
1 cup popcorn kernels –$0.90

The recipe cost is calculated by the amounts needed for the recipe. To find out more about how we price our recipes, check out Budget Recipes Explained. The pricing for this recipe was updated in March 2024.

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How To Make Instant Pot Popcorn:

***For complete recipe instructions and a recipe video, see the recipe card below.

First, set the Instant Pot to the “saute” setting and then press the “Adjust” button until it reads “More.” Preheat with 2 tbsp coconut oil for 2 minutes.
Add ½ cup kernels, stir, cover, and cook for 5-6 minutes until mostly popped. Let sit for 1-2 minutes.
Transfer popcorn, season with salt, and repeat with remaining ingredients. Enjoy!

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Popcorn Instant Pot Recipe Variations and Substitutions:

Flavor:Feel free to add melted butter and your favorite popcorn seasonings.
Oil option:Vegetable oil can be used instead of coconut oil, but for the best flavor, coconut oil is recommended.

Instapot Popcorn Storage Tips

Serve andStore:It’s best to eat this popcorn right after it’s popped. If you need to store it, keep it in an airtight container for 24 hours.

Freeze:This recipe does not freeze well; therefore, we do not recommend freezing it.

Recipe FAQs

What kind of oil should I use for popcorn?

For best results, use refined coconut oil due to its high smoke point. However, vegetable oil can be a substitute.

How do you keep popcorn crispy?

Store leftover popcorn in an airtight container for lasting freshness and crunch.

Why won’t my popcorn pop in instant pot?

For optimal popping, use fresh popcorn kernels. They’ll yield the fluffiest results! We have found that stale kernels do not pop when we use them.

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Get Kids Involved With This Recipe:

Ages 2-3:Engage your little chefs! Let them measure and add the kernels, then watch in delight as the popcorn pops.

Ages 4-5:Let them measure the popcorn kernels and pour them into the pot. Once popped, they can help season the popcorn with salt in a big bowl and be official taste testers.

Ages 6-8:This recipe is perfect for little ones to help! Teach them to set the Instant Pot to “saute,” measure, add ingredients, and then watch and listen for the popcorn to pop.

Ages 9-11: Read the recipe together twice.This ensures your child understands the steps and potential hazards. Supervise closely throughout the entire process.This is especially important near hot oil and appliances like the Instant Pot. Remember, the goal is to encourage their independence while ensuring safety in the kitchen.

Ages 12+:Let your little chef take the lead! With your close supervision, they can learn to master this recipe. Then, while they proudly enjoy their creation, you can celebrate their culinary success with a happy dance in the corner!