Roasted Pumpkin Recipe

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Last Updated on September 25, 2024 by Toya

If you enjoy roasted pumpkin during the Fall season, then you will absolutely love making and enjoying this easy roasted pumpkin recipe. It only needs a handful of easy-to-find kitchen staples and you’re all set since roasting pumpkins is one of the simplest and most delicious ways to prepare this veggie.

The roasting process caramelizes the pumpkin’s natural sugars, resulting in a slightly sweet, tender interior with crispy golden edges. So yummy!!

The best part is how versatile this recipe is. It will work great whether you’re looking for a tasty side dish, a base for soups and salads, or just a cozy fall snack to indulge in.

Let’s see how to make roasted pumpkin in under 40 minutes below!

Ingredients

• 1 small to medium pumpkin (sugar pumpkins are ideal, but any edible variety works)
• 2–3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1 tsp paprika or smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
• 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary

How to Make The Perfect Roasted Pumpkin

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then cut the pumpkin in half and scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from the center. You can save the seeds to roast separately as a snack, but keep the skin on. After cleaning the pumpkin, slice it into chunks or wedges or cut it into 1-inch cubes, if you prefer.

In a large bowl, toss the pumpkin pieces with olive oil, to evenly coat them. Add the salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings like garlic powder or paprika and mix until all the pumpkin pieces are well-seasoned.

Spread the seasoned pumpkin pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Make sure there’s some space between the pieces to allow for even cooking and caramelization. Roast the pumpkin for 25-35 minutes, flipping halfway through. The pumpkin is ready when it’s golden brown on the edges and fork-tender.

Once roasted, remove the pumpkin from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Roasted pumpkin can be served as a side dish, a snack, tossed into salads, added to grain bowls, or even blended into soups for a rich, creamy texture.

Possible Recipe Variations

The roasted pumpkin recipe below is simple and straightforward. However if you want a few variation ideas, here are some of my favorite options:

1. Spicy Roasted Pumpkin: If you like a bit of heat, you can add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. This will give the roasted pumpkin a spicy kick that pairs well with the natural sweetness of the vegetable.
2. Maple Glazed Roasted Pumpkin: If you want extra caramelization, drizzle 1–2 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey over the pumpkin before roasting. This adds a caramelized sweetness that is perfect for fall and pair perfectly with other fall flavors.
3. Curry-Spiced Pumpkin: Feeling for bold and exotic flavors instead? Then toss the pumpkin with a blend of curry powder, cumin, and turmeric before roasting. This variation is perfect for combining with grains like quinoa or couscous.
4. Roasted Pumpkin with Garlic Yogurt Sauce: If you’re craving a version that is creamy and tangy, then you can try roasted pumpkin with garlic yogurt sauce. The cool, refreshing yogurt sauce complements the warm, caramelized pumpkin, making it a great side dish or appetizer.
5. Roasted Pumpkin with Feta and Thyme: This easy variation marries the natural sweetness of roasted pumpkin with the salty, tangy, slightly sharp flavor, and creamy flavor of feta cheese and the earthy aroma of fresh thyme to make a simple, elegant dish that works perfectly as a side or a light main course.

More Pumpkin Recipes To Try Out:

• Pumpkin Pie Spice Recipe: A simple homemade blend of spices that adds warmth and flavor to all your favorite pumpkin recipes.
• Pumpkin Overnight Oats: A healthy and satisfying breakfast recipe that combines the goodness of pumpkin with the convenience of overnight oats.
• Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats: For a dessert-inspired breakfast, try these pumpkin pie-flavored oats.