There’s something magical about the smell of roasted pumpkin filling your kitchen. This air fryer roast pumpkin is golden on the edges, soft inside, and naturally sweet. With just a drizzle of oil and a sprinkle of salt, it turns into a caramelized little side dish that works with everything from salads to Sunday roasts. It’s comfort food with a hint of autumn in every bite.
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Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Roast Pumpkin
Using an air fryer for roast pumpkin gives you that oven-roasted flavor without heating up your kitchen. It’s fast, foolproof, and perfect for busy nights. The air fryer helps the pumpkin caramelize beautifully while keeping the inside tender and buttery. You can season it simply with salt and pepper or add a fun twist like smoked paprika or rosemary if you’re feeling creative
If you’re building a cozy dinner menu, this recipe pairs beautifully with creamy chicken lasagna soup for the ultimate comfort combo
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a few pantry staples to make this air fryer roast pumpkin
1 kg pumpkin, peeled, deseeded, and cut into large cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
Pinch of black pepper
That’s it. Simple ingredients, incredible flavor. You can swap olive oil for duck fat or butter for extra richness
How to Make Air Fryer Roast Pumpkin
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). This helps the pumpkin cook evenly and crisp faster.
Step 2: Season the Pumpkin
In a large bowl, toss the pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re lightly coated.
Step 3: Arrange in the Basket
Place the pumpkin in the air fryer basket in a single layer so they roast instead of steam.
Step 4: Cook and Shake
Cook for 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to make sure every side gets golden and crisp.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Check with a fork near the end; if it slides in easily, you’re ready to serve.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve it hot straight from the basket or add it to your favorite dish.. For an easy meal idea, try it alongside this no-bake pumpkin cheesecake ball for a sweet and savory dinner combo
Flavor Twists and Seasoning Ideas
Once you’ve nailed the basic air fryer roast pumpkin, play around with different flavors
Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or thyme for a savory touch
Mix in a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor
Toss with smoked paprika and rosemary for a rustic dinner vibe
Top it with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before serving for a sweet twist
These variations pair beautifully with our crispy air fryer potato bites, another family favorite when you want a quick and wholesome side
Serving Ideas
This pumpkin is the definition of versatile. Serve it as a side dish next to roast chicken, pork, or steak. Toss it into salads with feta and spinach for a hearty lunch. Blend it into soups for extra depth or use it as a pizza topping. You can even serve it plain with a bit of mayo or aioli for dipping on lazy afternoons. It’s also a great way to use leftovers from your Sunday roast dinner.
Tips for the Best Results
Cut the pumpkin pieces evenly so they cook at the same speed
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket so the pumpkin roasts instead of steaming
Check the pieces halfway and give them a shake for even crisping
If you’re using frozen pumpkin, cook it for a few extra minutes until golden
Once cooked, sprinkle with flaky salt for that finishing touch
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for five minutes to restore the crisp edges. You can also freeze the cooked pumpkin for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
If you want to prep ahead, toss the raw pumpkin with oil and spices, then refrigerate it uncooked. That way, it’s ready to go straight into the air fryer when you’re ready to cook.
FAQs
Can I use butternut squash instead of pumpkin?
Absolutely. Butternut squash cooks up beautifully and has a naturally sweet flavor that’s perfect for this recipe.
Can I roast the pumpkin wedges instead of cubes?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time slightly since wedges roast faster.
What’s the best oil for air fryer roast pumpkin?
Olive oil gives a lovely flavor, but avocado oil or duck fat make it extra rich and crisp.
More Air Fryer Recipes You’ll Love
Once you’ve mastered this air fryer roast pumpkin, try these next
Our air fryer carrot fries make a fun and healthy snack
Crispy parmesan zucchini chips are a hit with both kids and adults
Air fryer roast potatoes are the crunchy, golden side everyone asks for
Follow us on Pinterest for more cozy, quick dinner ideas or join the fun on Facebook and share your favorite ways to use pumpkin in your kitchen.
Air Fryer Roast Pumpkin (Tender, Sweet and Crispy)
Ingredients
- 1 kg pumpkin peeled, deseeded, and cut into large cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large bowl, toss the pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re lightly coated.
- Place the pumpkin in the air fryer basket in a single layer so they roast instead of steam.
- Cook for 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to make sure every side gets golden and crisp.
- Check with a fork near the end; if it slides in easily, you’re ready to serve.