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- 1/2 cup unpopped popcorn kernels - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted - 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix - 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust according to your desired spice level) - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt, to taste - Optional: Chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese for garnish For this Buffalo Ranch Popcorn, you need simple ingredients that pack a punch. Start with unpopped popcorn kernels. They are key to getting that fluffy base. Next, we use unsalted butter. It helps the seasonings stick and adds a rich flavor. Ranch seasoning mix gives the popcorn its iconic taste. You can adjust the spice with hot sauce. For more depth, garlic powder and onion powder enhance the flavor. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness. Don’t forget salt to bring all the flavors together. I love adding optional garnishes like chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese. They not only look great but also add a gourmet touch. You can mix and match these ingredients to suit your taste. {{ingredient_image_2}} To make Buffalo Ranch Popcorn, you can choose between two methods: an air popper or the stovetop. - Air Popper: Simply add 1/2 cup of unpopped kernels to the air popper. Start it up and let it do the work. The popcorn will fly out into a bowl. - Stovetop: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your kernels and cover with a lid. Shake the pot gently while it pops. Keep shaking until the popping slows. For even popping, avoid overcrowding the pot. Use fresh kernels for the best results. Now, let's prepare the flavorful coating. - In a small mixing bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of melted butter, 2 tablespoons of ranch seasoning mix, 1 tablespoon of hot sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. - Don't forget a pinch of salt! Whisk these ingredients together until smooth. This step is key for a great texture. The better you whisk, the more evenly the flavor spreads. After popping your corn and making the coating, it’s time to combine them. - First, slowly drizzle the seasoning mixture over the popcorn. - Use a spatula or your hands to toss it gently. Make sure each kernel gets coated. Coating works best when the popcorn is warm. Warm popcorn absorbs the flavors better. Enjoy your delicious Buffalo Ranch Popcorn! To make great popcorn, choose the right kernels. I prefer high-quality, non-GMO kernels. They pop better and taste great. You can use either an air popper or the stovetop method. For stovetop, use a heavy pot. Heat oil over medium heat and add the kernels. Cover the pot. Shake it gently to avoid burning. To prevent burnt popcorn, listen for the popping sound. When it slows down, it’s time to stop. Remove it from heat right away. If you wait too long, the popcorn can burn. You can customize the heat in your Buffalo Ranch Popcorn. Start with one tablespoon of hot sauce. If you want more heat, add more sauce. Taste as you go! If you prefer milder flavors, try using a ranch seasoning without hot sauce. You can also mix in some cheese powder for a cheesy twist. There are many ways to boost the flavor of your popcorn. Try adding extra seasonings like smoked paprika or chili powder. They add depth to your snack. For toppings, consider chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese. These add a nice crunch and rich taste. You can also serve it with a side of ranch dip for extra fun! Pro Tips Use Fresh Kernels: Always use fresh popcorn kernels for the best popping results. Stale kernels may not pop as effectively, leading to a disappointing snack. Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your spice tolerance. Start with less and add more if you like it spicier! Toss While Coating: To ensure even coating, toss the popcorn continuously while drizzling the butter mixture over it. This helps every kernel get that delicious flavor. Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunchiness. Avoid refrigerating, as it can make them stale. {{image_4}} You can try many fun seasoning blends with Buffalo Ranch Popcorn. For example, mix chili powder and lime for a zesty kick. Try a blend of taco seasoning for a Mexican twist. You can even go sweet by adding cinnamon and sugar. Sweet and spicy makes a great mix! Want a dairy-free version? Use coconut oil instead of butter. For the ranch seasoning, look for a dairy-free mix or make your own with herbs. If you need a gluten-free option, check that your seasonings are gluten-free. Most popcorn kernels are already gluten-free, so you’re good to go! To make your popcorn fancy, add garnishes like chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese. You can also sprinkle crushed nuts on top for a crunch. For parties, serve the popcorn in fun bowls or cones. Try adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a unique twist. To keep leftover Buffalo Ranch Popcorn fresh, store it in an airtight container. This method helps keep moisture out. You can also use resealable bags. Make sure to squeeze out excess air before sealing. Avoid placing it in the fridge or freezer; cold air can make it soggy. Buffalo Ranch Popcorn stays fresh for about three to five days when stored properly. Look for signs of spoilage, like a stale smell or soft texture. If it becomes chewy, it’s time to toss it. Reheating popcorn can be tricky. The best way is to use the oven. Preheat it to 250°F (120°C). Spread the popcorn on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes. This method keeps it crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the popcorn tough. Enjoy your snack with the same bold flavor! Yes, you can! To make Buffalo Ranch Popcorn in the microwave, use microwave-safe popcorn bags or a microwave-safe bowl. If you're using kernels, combine 1/2 cup of unpopped kernels with a tablespoon of oil in the bowl. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate. Microwave on high for about 2-4 minutes, until popping slows down. After popping, drizzle the prepared Buffalo ranch seasoning over the popcorn and toss well. When you're short on time, several brands offer tasty pre-made Buffalo Ranch Popcorn. Look for: - Angie's Boomchickapop Buffalo Ranch - Popcornopolis Buffalo Ranch Popcorn - Garrett Popcorn Shops Buffalo Ranch These options provide great flavor and save you time in the kitchen. You can easily personalize your Buffalo Ranch Popcorn! Here are some ideas: - Add Cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or cheddar for a cheesy twist. - Spice It Up: Mix in cayenne pepper or chili powder for extra heat. - Sweet and Savory: Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup for a sweet touch. - Herbs: Toss in fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added color and taste. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste! This post covered many ways to make delicious Buffalo Ranch popcorn. We discussed ingredients, popping methods, and how to enhance flavors. You can even tailor it for your taste by adjusting spice levels. Remember to store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, there’s a combination for everyone. Enjoy experimenting with toppings or trying new seasoning blends. Make your popcorn nights fun and tasty!

Buffalo Ranch Popcorn Delight

A spicy and flavorful popcorn snack coated with ranch seasoning and hot sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 0.5 cup unpopped popcorn kernels
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste none salt
  • optional none chopped green onions
  • optional none crumbled blue cheese

Instructions
 

  • Pop the Popcorn: If using an air popper, place the unpopped kernels in the machine and pop them into a large mixing bowl. For stovetop preparation, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the popcorn kernels, cover with a lid, and gently shake the pot occasionally. Continue popping until the sounds of popping slow down significantly, indicating most kernels have popped.
  • Prepare the Coating: In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, ranch seasoning mix, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously until they are thoroughly blended into a smooth, flavorful mixture.
  • Combine and Coat: Slowly drizzle the seasoning mixture over the freshly popped popcorn. As you pour, use a spatula or your hands (be cautious, it may be warm) to toss the popcorn gently, ensuring every kernel is evenly coated with the delicious seasoning for the best flavor experience.
  • Garnish (Optional): Elevate your popcorn by adding a visual and taste enhancement. Lightly sprinkle with chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese for a gourmet touch that brings additional flavors and colors.
  • Serve: Transfer the seasoned popcorn to a stylish serving bowl. Enjoy your Buffalo Ranch Popcorn warm and fresh for the ultimate snacking experience!

Notes

Adjust the hot sauce to your desired spice level.
Keyword buffalo, popcorn, ranch, snack