Go Back
+ servings

Roasted Pumpkin Recipe

Transform a humble sugar pumpkin into golden, flavorful bites that are perfect as a snack or side dish for any occasion. This roasted pumpkin recipe is simple, versatile, and brimming with warm, aromatic spices.
Print Save
Course: Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Roasted Pumpkin Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika
  • 1 sugar pumpkin 2 pounds whole, 1.5 pounds cleaned
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt or ½ teaspoon of another salt, such as Morton kosher salt

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F and position the oven rack at the lowest level. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with high-heat-resistant parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  • Rinse the pumpkin thoroughly and pat it dry. To soften slightly, microwave the pumpkin for one minute on high.
  • With a sharp chef’s knife, carefully cut the pumpkin in half. Use a sawing motion and remove a thin slice from the stem end if avoiding the stem entirely. Removing the stem makes the process more manageable as it can be tough to cut through.
  • Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp using a sturdy metal spoon. For any stubborn pulp, use kitchen scissors to cut it away. If desired, set aside the seeds for roasting later.
  • Slice each pumpkin half into four crescent-shaped pieces, approximately one inch thick. Discard the ends that may not yield uniform slices.
  • Peel off the skin using a vegetable peeler, ensuring all hard exterior is removed. Cut the crescent slices into neat 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
  • Transfer the pumpkin cubes to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with kosher salt, garlic powder, and chili powder. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a large spoon, ensuring every piece is well-coated with seasoning.
  • Spread the seasoned pumpkin cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 30 minutes, tossing the cubes halfway through to ensure even roasting. The pumpkin should be tender when pierced with a fork.
  • Serve hot as a delightful side dish or snack.

Notes

  • Use a small sugar pumpkin for the best flavor; larger pumpkins tend to have less taste. Choose one with firm, deep orange flesh, as larger pumpkins are better suited for Jack-o-lanterns than cooking.
  • For pumpkins larger than 2 pounds, microwave for a longer duration. A 5-pound pumpkin, for example, needs about two minutes on each side to soften before cutting.
  • As an alternative, skip peeling and cubing by simply cutting the pumpkin in half, removing the pulp and seeds, and roasting it cut-side-down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast at 425°F for 30 minutes until fork-tender. This method yields a cooked pumpkin ideal for mashing and using in other recipes.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave at 50% power to preserve texture.
  • For longer storage, freeze leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to three months.
Did you make this recipe?Want more delicious recipes like this? Follow us on Pinterest for daily inspiration! Click here to Follow me on Pinterest @Sevten