Microwave Popcorn in the Air Fryer
Yes, you can cook microwave popcorn in an air fryer - but the paper bag needs to be removed first. This method uses the contents of a microwave popcorn bag and cooks the kernels separately in the air fryer until light and crisp. It takes a little longer than the microwave, but it’s a handy alternative when a microwave isn’t an option.
Equipment
- 1 air fryer I used my Ninja Foodi
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- aluminum foil for preparing the basket
- oven mitts
Ingredients
- 1 bag microwave popcorn roughly ½ cup popcorn kernels
- 1 teaspoon high-smoke-point oil e.g. avocado, coconut or canola oil
- 1 pinch salt or to taste
- extra seasonings optional
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut open the bag and pour the contents into a bowl. Do not put the paper microwave popcorn bag into the air fryer.
- Prepare the air fryer basket and line it with aluminium foil, making sure the liner is secure.
- Add the oil to the popcorn kernels and stir to coat, then spread the kernels across the prepared basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, carefully shaking the basket occasionally once the popcorn begins to pop.
- Once the popping has mostly stopped, switch off the air fryer and carefully remove the basket.
- Transfer the popcorn to a bowl, toss to distribute the seasoning and serve warm.
Notes
- Do not put the sealed paper microwave popcorn bag into the air fryer. Open the bag and cook the contents separately.
- Air fryers vary, so the exact cooking time may differ slightly depending on your model.
- Spread the kernels in a single layer for more even cooking.
- Carefully shake the basket once the popcorn begins popping.
- Stop cooking once the popping has mostly slowed down rather than waiting for every last kernel to pop.
- Some unpopped kernels are normal when making popcorn in an air fryer.
- The basket and any loose kernels will be very hot, so take care when removing the popcorn.
- Toss the finished popcorn before serving to redistribute the seasoning.