Spicy Ranch Popcorn Snack Mix
A quick and easy spicy ranch flavored popcorn snack mix perfect for movie nights, combining tangy ranch seasoning with a spicy kick and crunchy nuts and pretzels.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels (about 90g) or 10 cups pre-popped popcorn
- 1 package ranch seasoning mix (1 oz / 28g)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (60g), melted
- 1 cup mixed nuts (roasted almonds, cashews, peanuts) about 120g
- 1 cup pretzel sticks or mini pretzels (about 50g) – optional
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (25g)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
Instructions
- Pop the popcorn kernels: Heat a large pot over medium heat with a tablespoon of oil. Add the 1/2 cup (90g) of popcorn kernels and cover with a lid. Shake the pot occasionally to prevent burning. Once popping slows to 2-3 seconds between pops, remove from heat. Pour popped corn into a large mixing bowl, discarding unpopped kernels.
- Toast the nuts and pretzels (optional): Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread mixed nuts and pretzels on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
- Melt the butter: Microwave 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter until melted, about 30 seconds, or melt gently on stovetop without browning.
- Mix the seasoning: Sprinkle ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt evenly over the popcorn in the large bowl.
- Add nuts, pretzels, and Parmesan: Toss in toasted nuts, pretzels, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Combine everything: Pour melted butter over the mixture and gently toss with spoons or hands until evenly coated, about 2-3 minutes.
- Final check and adjust: Taste and add extra salt or cayenne if desired. Let rest for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve: Transfer to a large bowl or individual snack cups and enjoy fresh.
Notes
Use plain, unbuttered popcorn kernels for best flavor and seasoning adherence. Toast nuts and pretzels for extra crunch and flavor. Adjust cayenne pepper to control spiciness. Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (30g)
- Calories: 150180
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 200
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 4
Keywords: spicy ranch popcorn, snack mix, movie night snack, easy popcorn recipe, ranch seasoning popcorn, spicy snack