Can you make popcorn in an air fryer? I went straight to the source – It’s Going Viral in 2026

There’s a lot to love about popcorn: the crunch, its customizable nature, and especially the fact that it tastes great. source of fiber. Also, it will be even healthier if you ventilate it without using oil. But if you, like me, don’t have a popcorn maker, you’ll most likely make it in a pan on the stove.

However, the last time I made popcorn, I looked at my deep fryer and wondered if I could make popcorn in it. When I went online looking for an answer, I couldn’t find a conclusive answer, so I decided to reach out to an air fryer manufacturer and professional chefs for their expert advice.

Experts evaluate popcorn in a deep fryer

I reached out to Ninja, the creators Ninja KrispyCNET’s choice for best air fryer overall. An air fryer is a versatile appliance that can even bake a whole chickenhe doesn’t know how to make popcorn yet.

Well, technically it’s possible, but that doesn’t mean it has to be.

“At Ninja, we’re always testing the limits of what our technology can do, and air fryer popcorn is something our culinary and product development teams have explored. However, we do not recommend attempting to make popcorn in the air fryer,” a Ninja Kitchen spokesperson told CNET. “Air fryers distribute heat differently than traditional popcorn makers, meaning the kernels do not reach the required, sustained heat in the required time.”

Because popcorn is lightweight, Sharnikia White, a chef and registered dietitian, explains that if you try to pop it in an air fryer, it can fly up to the heating element of the device, get stuck near the fan, burn due to uneven airflow, and leave you with an unpleasant amount of unpopped kernels. All cons, no pros.

Given the safety hazards and unsatisfactory results, you should avoid using a popcorn fryer. At least until technology catches up.

Professional chefs reveal the best way to make popcorn

Since the air fryer is not designed for popcorn, I asked my chef for recommendations for the best popcorn.

White says the slab always wins when you want a fluffy texture, rich flavor and full grain development. She provides the following helpful instructions for best results:

1. Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil in large pot with thick bottom over medium heat.
2. Add 2-3 kernels to check if the oil is hot enough. When they burst, add ½ cup of kernels.
3. Cover with a lid and gently shake the pan from time to time.
4. Remove from heat when popping slows.
5. You control the oil, salt and result.

However, if you make popcorn regularly, plant-based chef Shauna McQueen, MS, founder of Food School, recommends purchasing an inexpensive pan with a lid that can be rotated to move the popcorn kernels.

“Another option is automatic, which will mix the beans on their own,” adds McQueen. “I’ve used both and had to replace both after a few years, but I find the automatic the most convenient.”

As for the healthiest way to make popcorn…

“If you’re using a deep fryer because you want to use less oil, you’re thinking in the right direction,” White says. “However, the inexpensive air popper or stovetop method is more reliable and safer. Popcorn is already a whole grain, fiber-rich snack. The goal isn’t to eliminate oil entirely; we have to be intentional about how much you use and what you add.”

Whether you pop your popcorn on the stove or buy a device that froths the popcorn in the air, it’s best to avoid microwave popcorn. It may contain additives such as TBHQ, which is used to extend the shelf life of processed foods, McQueen said. Although the FDA considers it safe in appropriate amounts, it is associated with potential health problems.

The healthiest topping for popcorn

If you need extra flavor, McQueen suggests the following anti-inflammatory additions: curry powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, or chili powder. If you want cheesy flavor and B vitamins, choose nutritional yeast. Her favorites are curry-style popcorn, made with curry powder, garlic powder and a little nutritional yeast; chili powder with lime and za’atar; or any bagel seasoning.

For White, she likes to add smoked paprika, cinnamon with a pinch of salt, fresh lime zest and sea salt or dried dill “for an unexpected herbal flavor.”

Bottom line

Although it’s tempting, you shouldn’t cook popcorn in the air fryer. Instead, use what you already have on hand and cook it on the stovetop.

If you can’t get enough stuff and do it all the time, consider these options under $50: stove top popcorn machine or oil-free air popper.

In any case, to make sure your popcorn is as healthy as possible, avoid vegetable oil, butter and salt. Personally, I’ll be adding chili powder, lime, and za’atar to mine the next time I have a popcorn craving, which will probably be within minutes of writing this delicious article.