Popcorn

Don’t underestimate popcorn as you consider budget-friendly foods. Although it’s most commonly thought of as a snack, it can still help you save money if you’re used to buying pricey snacks (think snack mix, chips or crackers) at the grocery store.

Popcorn can even be the star of the show when you add it to savory dishes or even make a salad out of it (check out the popcorn salad recipe, below!)

I try to avoid buying ready-made popcorn at the grocery store. Instead, I’ve mastered the art of making great popcorn at home. Check out the sea salt popcorn recipe if you want to learn how.

One of my all-time favorite recipes – one that brings me back to my childhood – is popcorn cake. If you’ve never tried, it, consider making it soon! It is similar to a marshmallow-based popcorn ball. But instead, it’s in cake form. Chocolate candies, gum drops, peanuts, and other candies and nuts can be added to the mix.

The Chicago popcorn mix is an irresistible combination of cheesy popcorn and caramel popcorn. That sweet-and-salty combination can’t be beat!

Learn how to make red, white, and blue popcorn for the 4th of July. (Or choose other colors for different holidays and occasions).

The popcorn Christmas tree is a fun one for the holidays.

And finally, for a savory recipe, try making the cheddar and ale soup which is topped generously with popcorn. So delicious!

It’s time to give humble popcorn another look with these fun, fresh, and budget-friendly recipes.