Q&A for How to Make Popcorn in a Pan

Melt some butter and pour it on top of the popcorn.

You should just avoid eating them and throw them out. If they didn't pop the first time around, they most likely won't pop if you try again.

The pan may be too hot, which has resulted in some scorching. It may help to turn down the temperature down.

Your pan is too hot. When you turn on the element, turn it to medium heat, let it warm up, and then add your oil and kernels.

Yes, if you're making popcorn in a pan, oil is essential.

Your pan might not be hot enough, or there might be a problem with the corn, which might be old or stale.

While oil is not strictly necessary to make a great bowl of popcorn, it helps immensely with the process. The oil heats uniformly in the pan and is a much better conductor of heat than air. It allows the corn to pop marginally faster, and minimizes the risk of burning.