Save to Pinterest A savory, crunchy snack mix featuring popcorn tossed with aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and a medley of crispy add-ins. Perfect for parties or movie nights.
I first made this snack mix for a movie night with friends, and it quickly disappeared. Everyone loved the aromatic garlic butter combined with crispy add-ins.
Ingredients
- Popcorn kernels: 1⁄2 cup (100 g) (yields about 8 cups popped)
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons (for popping)
- Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons (60 g)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, finely minced
- Fresh parsley: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
- Fresh thyme leaves: 1 teaspoon, chopped
- Dried oregano: 1⁄2 teaspoon
- Fine sea salt: 1⁄2 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1⁄4 teaspoon
- Mini pretzel twists: 1 cup
- Roasted almonds (or mixed nuts): 1⁄2 cup
- Baked cheese crackers (optional): 1⁄2 cup
- Rye chips (optional): 1⁄2 cup
Instructions
- Pop the popcorn:
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the popcorn kernels and cover with a lid. Shake occasionally until popping slows to 2–3 seconds between pops. Remove from heat and transfer popcorn to a large mixing bowl, discarding any unpopped kernels.
- Prepare the garlic herb butter:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and saute for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned. Stir in parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the snack mix:
- Drizzle the garlic herb butter evenly over the warm popcorn. Toss gently to coat. Add pretzels, nuts, cheese crackers, and rye chips. Toss again until everything is well mixed and coated.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, or spread the mix on a baking sheet to cool for extra crispness. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Save to Pinterest This popcorn mix has become a staple at our family gatherings, often sparking laughter and new flavor ideas as everyone grabs a handful.
Required Tools
Large pot with lid, large mixing bowl, small saucepan, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter), gluten (pretzels, crackers, rye chips), and tree nuts (almonds). If using cheese crackers, may contain milk and wheat. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 230 Protein: 4 g Carbohydrates: 23 g Total Fat: 13 g
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this crunchy snack mix on a cozy evening or pack some for your next outdoor adventure!
Common Recipe Questions
- → What herbs work best in the popcorn mix?
Fresh parsley, thyme, and oregano deliver vibrant flavor. You may also add chives, dill, or rosemary for variation.
- → How do you achieve perfectly coated popcorn?
Drizzle the warm garlic herb butter evenly and toss gently to coat every kernel before adding crispy mix-ins.
- → Can I make this snack vegan?
Substitute plant-based butter for the dairy version, and use vegan pretzels and crackers for a plant-forward option.
- → What snack add-ins pair well with popcorn?
Mini pretzels, roasted nuts, cheese crackers, and rye chips add texture and flavor. Feel free to mix and match favorites.
- → How do I keep my popcorn mix extra crisp?
After tossing, spread the mix in a single layer to cool before storing. Airtight containers prevent moisture and sogginess.
- → Are there ways to add more flavor?
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, a pinch of cayenne, or smoked paprika into the butter for extra punch and complexity.