Why You Shouldn't Trust Your Microwave's Popcorn Button

You can hear the sound of the kernels popping away in the microwave, getting the mood just right for a Netflix binge for the ages, and you know it's going to be a good night. Whether you're a traditionalist or you like your popcorn with a little flavor flair, such as vanilla, the easiest way to get there is by simply pressing the "Popcorn" button on the microwave and waiting for it to do its thing — at least that's what we all thought.

There is no universal way to make a microwave, and because of this fact, all microwaves come with wattages ranging anywhere from 600 watts to 1,200 watts or more. Factors like bag size, kernel density, and even the amount of moisture inside affect how quickly and evenly the popcorn cooks. The popcorn button doesn't know the specific bag you're using. Instead, it relies on a generic timer or a basic steam sensor, both of which are notoriously unreliable.

That's why so many people end up with burnt popcorn, even though they followed the directions. The preset timer usually runs long to guarantee most kernels pop, but those first ones that burst keep cooking until they turn black, bitter, and unpleasant tasting. Some popcorn brands even print a warning on the bag that tells you not to use the popcorn button at all. If the manufacturers themselves say to skip it, that should tell you everything you need to know.

If you want to enjoy popcorn without the burnt taste or lingering smell in your microwave, it's better to stop using the preset button and use your own senses. The best method is to just listen closely as the popcorn pops; once the interval between pops slows to about two or three seconds, it's time to stop the microwave. This ensures you're catching the batch right at its peak, with most kernels popped and none of them charred.

It also helps to pay attention to your microwave's power level, as most bags have guidelines printed on the back with recommended times for different wattages, and those ranges exist for a reason. If your microwave is higher powered, stick to the shorter end of the suggested time. If it's on the lower side, you may need to leave your bag of popcorn in a bit longer. Pair that with the "listen for the pause" trick, and you'll rarely go wrong.

Alternatively, there are a lot of ways to pop your popcorn outside of the prepackaged bag, including placing popcorn kernels inside a microwave-safe bowl or a simple paper bag. Add a drizzle of oil and your kernels, put your plate on top of the bowl or fold the top of the bag, and let the microwave do its thing. You can season it afterward with butter, salt, or any toppings you like — garlic powder, chili flakes, grated Parmesan, or even nutritional yeast, a savory popcorn topping with a cheesy flavor. This method avoids the unpredictability of pre-set buttons and gives you popcorn that's fresh and flavorful.