Parmesan & Chipotle Popcorn

We never have a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixings. No one cares for a big roast turkey, and to seal the deal, my youngest is allergic. In years past we've had roast chicken, rib roasts, spaghetti, and even tacos. This year we opted for ham which is not only the easiest, but something everyone is crazy about, and for that I am thankful. Amen for an easy and peaceful Thanksgiving that everyone enjoyed.

Thankfully, Thanksgiving weekend is long enough to squeeze in all sorts of things: eating, shopping, resting, watching parades, Netflix, and spending lots of time with family. Now that our kids are older we love to have game night. It's a great way to have some good old fashioned fun together and it forces everyone to put their electronics away. 

On Black Friday I found the retro (1986 version) of Clue and snatched it right up. I can't even tell you how many times I played that game back in the 80's. I knew my kids (who are obsessed with the 80's thanks to Stranger Things) would love this throwback game.

Now that I had the game it was time for snacks. Ina's Parmesan & Chipotle Popcorn has been calling to me. Easy, cheesy, and spicy. I knew I couldn't go wrong. We set the table with the game, Ina's popcorn, and some buttered popcorn for the kiddos, and we were all set. It was definitely a table to be thankful for.

I loved the combination of Parmesan cheese and chile powder and thought it was perfectly balanced. My husband thought there was a bit too much cheese on the popcorn, but we all know there is no such thing as too much cheese, so he loses his vote. I will say there is probably too much butter. How do I know there was too much butter? Well, my popcorn became a little soggy in places so I think I would suggest using half as much butter next time around. Adding two tablespoons of butter in lieu of four would probably suffice. If not, you can always add a touch more. This is the perfect solution for an otherwise lip smacking and darn right addictive cheesy delight of a snack. I'd definitely make this again!

Parmesan & Chipotle Popcorn

Adapted from Cooking For Jeffrey

by Ina Garten

Serves 3 to 4

1 bag microwave popcorn, such as Newman's Own Natural

4 tablespoons butter, melted*

1/2 cup finely grated Italian Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon chipotle chile powder

2 teaspoons salt 

Note: Four tablespoons of butter may be a bit too much. I'd try half (2 tablespoons) at first and then add more if necessary. I didn't have chipotle chile powder so I used regular chile powder with great results.

Microwave thepopcorn for 3 to 5 minutes, according to the directions on the package, until the popcorn stops popping. Carefully pour the hot popcorn into a large bowl and immediately pour on the butter, then the Parmesan, chile powder, and salt. Toss well and serve hot.