Sesame Free Dairy Free Smoky Ranch Queso Popcorn
Smoky, cheesy, and loaded with ranch-style herbs, this popcorn is the kind of snack that disappears before the movie even starts. The "queso" magic comes entirely from nutritional yeast, which delivers that savory, umami-rich depth without any dairy — and without any sesame in sight. Smoked paprika and cumin bring a warm, almost campfire-like backbone, while dried dill and chives keep things bright and ranch-forward. A touch of cayenne adds just enough heat to keep you reaching back into the bowl. The coconut oil acts as both the popping fat and the seasoning carrier, binding that spice paste to every single kernel so you get full flavor in every bite. It's a surprisingly satisfying alternative to store-bought flavored popcorns, which often sneak in unexpected allergens or seasoning blends with hidden ingredients. Make a big batch, toss it well, and serve it straight away while it's still warm and fragrant.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the popcorn
- ⅓ cup popcorn kernels
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
For the seasoning
- 3 tbsp coconut oil
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried dill
- ½ tsp dried chives
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- ¾ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Heat 2 tbsp coconut oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add 3 popcorn kernels, cover, and wait until all 3 kernels pop — this signals the oil is hot enough. Add the remaining kernels in a single layer, cover, and cook, shaking the pot every 15–20 seconds, until the popping slows to about 2 seconds between pops. Remove from heat immediately and transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl, discarding any unpopped kernels.
- 2
In a small saucepan, melt 3 tbsp coconut oil over low heat until just liquid. Remove from heat and stir in the nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried chives, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, fine sea salt, and ground black pepper until a uniform paste forms.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!