Popcorn Salad Recipe

Q: What is the four ingredient corn salad recipe?

The simplest version uses just four ingredients: popcorn , mayonnaise , celery , and bacon . Mix mayo, sugar and vinegar for the dressing, then combine mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar with your other ingredients.

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If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok lately, you’ve probably come across the viral popcorn salad that has everyone talking. This quirky old dutch popcorn salad recipe combines the unexpected crunch of freshly popped kernels with a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing and crispy bacon bits. What started as a retro Midwestern dish has become a modern sensation, thanks to food personality Molly Yeh and countless TikTok creators who’ve put their own spin on this unique dish.

What is Popcorn Salad Recipe?

This unconventional dish combines freshly popped kernels with crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, crunchy vegetables like celery and water chestnuts, and a tangy mayonnaise-based dressing. The result is a surprisingly addictive savory snack mix that’s perfect for potlucks, movie nights, and family gatherings.

The Origin Story

The popcorn salad origin traces back to the American Midwest, where creative home cooks have been combining kernels with vegetables and dressing for decades. This retro salad recipe gained national attention when Molly Yeh featured it on her Food Network show “Girl Meets Farm,” introducing this regional favorite to a broader audience.

Ingredients for the Perfect Popcorn Salad Recipe

Main Ingredients:

8 cups freshly popped popcorn (cooled completely)
1/2 cup bacon bits or crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup cheese (shredded sharp cheddar works best)
1 cup celery, finely diced
1 cup water chestnuts, sliced
Carrots and chives for added crunch and flavor
1/2 cup green onions, chopped

For the Mayonnaise-Based Dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions Popcorn Salad Recipe

Step 1:

Prepare the Kernels Start by making your freshly popped kernels. You can use an air popper, stovetop method, or even microwave varieties (just make sure it’s plain). Allow the kernels to cool completely this is crucial for maintaining the crunchy texture.

Step 2:

Make the Dressing Whisk the mayonnaise, sour cream, cider vinegar, sugar and Dijon together in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The dressing should be creamy with a slight tang from the vinegar.

Step 3:

Prep the Vegetables Combine celery, radishes, onion, water chestnuts, bacon and chives in large bowl. Make sure all vegetables are cut into small, bite-sized pieces for the best eating experience.

Step 4:

Assemble the Dish Add mayo, 1 cup cheddar cheese, water chestnuts, 1/2 cup bacon, carrots and chives to your prepared dressing. Gently fold in the cooled kernels last, being careful not to crush them.

Step 5:

Chill and Serve Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. This potluck favorite is best served within 2-3 hours of assembly to maintain optimal texture.

Recommended

Molly Yeh Variations

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Here are some popular variations:

Sweet Version

For a sweet twist, add:

Mini marshmallows
Dried cranberries
Chopped apples
A touch of honey in the dressing

Candy-Studded Version

Create a candy-studded variation by incorporating:

Mini chocolate chips
Crushed candy bars
Caramel pieces
Toffee bits

Movie Theater Style

For a movie theater theme, try:

Butter-flavored popcorn
Crushed pretzels
Mini hot dogs, sliced
Extra cheese powder

Tips for the Best Results Popcorn Salad Recipe

Use freshly popped kernels day-old varieties will make your dish soggy
Cool completely before mixing to prevent wilting
Add dressing gradually to avoid over-dressing
Serve immediately or within a few hours for best texture
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours

FAQ Popcorn Salad Recipe

What is the four ingredient corn salad recipe?

The simplest version uses just four ingredients: popcorn, mayonnaise, celery, and bacon. Mix mayo, sugar and vinegar for the dressing, then combine mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar with your other ingredients.

Can you make popcorn with mayonnaise?

While you don’t cook kernels with mayonnaise, you can mix cooled varieties with a mayonnaise-based dressing. The mayo helps bind all the ingredients together while adding richness.

Why put an egg in while popping popcorn?

This isn’t related to this dish, but some people add egg to oil for extra richness. However, for this recipe, stick to plain popped kernels.

What is the healthiest thing to put on popcorn?

For a healthier version, try Greek yogurt instead of mayo, add extra vegetables, and use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.

TikTok Fame and Social Media Buzz

The TikTok trend has spawned countless variations and debates. Some creators love the unique combination, while others question the concept entirely. Regardless of your stance, there’s no denying that this viral recipe has brought attention to creative Midwestern cuisine.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a movie night, attending a potluck, or just want to try something new, popcorn salad recipe is sure to be a conversation starter. Its unique combination of textures and flavors makes it an unforgettable dish that guests will be talking about long after the last kernel is gone.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Start with this classic version, then experiment with your own additions to create something that’s uniquely yours. Who knows? Your variation might be the next to go viral on social media!

Pro tip: Make extra – this surprisingly addictive salad tends to disappear faster than you’d expect!

A wooden bowl filled with colorful popcorn salad recipe featuring white popped kernels mixed with diced red bell peppers, purple onions, and fresh cilantro leaves

Old Dutch Popcorn Salad

A viral TikTok sensation combining freshly popped popcorn with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing. This unique Midwestern dish is perfect for potlucks and movie nights!

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Prep Time 15

Chilling Time 30

Total Time 15

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 285 kcal

Equipment

Large Mixing Bowl
Whisk
Popcorn Maker or Large Pot

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 cups freshly popped popcorn cooled completely
1/2 cup bacon crispy cooked and crumbled
1 cup cheddar cheese shredded sharp
1 cup celery finely diced
1 cup water chestnuts sliced
1/2 cup carrots finely diced
1/4 cup chives chopped
1/2 cup green onions chopped

Mayonnaise Dressing

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Make your freshly popped popcorn using an air popper, stovetop method, or microwave (plain only). Allow to cool completely before using.
Whisk the mayonnaise, sour cream, cider vinegar, sugar and Dijon together in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare all vegetables by dicing celery and carrots finely, slicing water chestnuts, and chopping chives and green onions.
Combine celery, carrots, water chestnuts, bacon and chives in the bowl with the dressing.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and mix gently to combine.
Gently fold in the cooled popcorn last, being careful not to crush the kernels.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve within 2-3 hours for best texture.

Notes

This unique Midwestern dish gained popularity on TikTok and is perfect for potlucks! For best results, serve within a few hours of making to maintain the popcorn’s crunch. Feel free to customize with your favorite add-ins like mini marshmallows for a sweet version or crushed pretzels for extra crunch.

Keyword No Cook, Popcorn Salad, Potluck, TikTok Recipe