Skip to main content

Bacon Jalapeño Popcorn

This smoky bacon and jalapeño popcorn is a sophisticated twist on a classic cinema snack, offering a punchy balance of heat and salt. By rendering the fat from applewood smoked bacon to coat the kernels, every bite is infused with a deep, savoury flavour that shop-bought varieties simply cannot match. The addition of charred jalapeños provides a bright contrast to the rich, crispy bacon bits.

Perfect for a weekend movie night or as a bold party appetiser, this dairy-free friendly snack is surprisingly easy to whip up on the hob. While the recipe includes a dusting of Parmesan for a sharp finish, it remains a versatile base that can be adapted to suit your preferences. Serve it warm in a large bowl to share with friends for a comforting, homemade treat.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Bacon Jalapeño Popcorn

  • 230g applewood smoked bacon, cut into 1/4-inch dice

  • 3 jalapeños, seeded and cut into thin rings

  • 45ml extra- virgin olive oil

  • 240ml popcorn kernels

  • 20g Parmesan cheese, grated (about 40g )

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

How to make Bacon Jalapeño Popcorn

Set a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crispy and browned and the fat has rendered, about 8 minutes. Add the jalapeños to the pot and stir well. Cook for 2 minutes, or until the jalapeños are charred. Line a plate with a paper towel and use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon and jalapeños to the plate. Set aside.

Add the olive oil to the pot and increase the heat to high. Add the popcorn kernels and toss well to coat them in the oil. Spread the kernels evenly on the bottom of the pot, then cover the pot with the lid. When the first kernels start to pop, very slightly uncover the pot. Shake the pot back and forth directly over the heat. Cook until the kernels stop popping, 2 to 3 minutes.

Remove the pot from the heat and pour the popcorn into a large bowl. Add the reserved bacon and jalapeños, the Parmesan, and the salt. Toss well to mix. Serve warm.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.