Common Popcorn Ratios 1/4 cup of kernels, which is equivalent to 2 ounces of kernels, will make approximately two quarts (or 8 cups) of popped popcorn. 1/2 cup of kernels, which is equivalent to 4 ounces of kernels, will make approximately four quarts (or 16 cups or 1 gallon) of popped popcorn.