Crispy Air Fryer Pumpkin Fries: Your Ultimate Guide to Sweet & Savory Perfection

Embrace the vibrant flavors of fall with these incredibly easy and utterly delicious Air Fryer Pumpkin Fries. Whether you’re planning a festive holiday meal or simply looking for a healthy and satisfying snack, these pumpkin fries offer a delightful blend of sweet and savory notes that will tantalize your taste buds. Requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, this recipe quickly transforms humble pumpkin into a crave-worthy dish. Plus, we’ve included two distinct air frying methods to ensure you achieve your desired texture – whether you prefer them tender or irresistibly crispy!

As the holiday season approaches, particularly Thanksgiving here in Canada, the focus often turns to creating memorable side dishes that complement traditional turkey and ham. While some classics remain, I always enjoy experimenting with new, exciting additions to our feast. This year, air fryer pumpkin fries are taking center stage on our holiday menu, promising a fresh and flavorful alternative. They’ll join other beloved dishes like this hearty whole wheat stuffing, a refreshing healthy cranberry sauce, and these perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts for a truly exceptional spread.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Pumpkin Fries

Crafting these delectable air fryer pumpkin fries is remarkably simple, thanks to a concise list of readily available ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in developing their exceptional flavor and texture.

Pumpkin: The star of our dish! For the best results, opt for two small, sweet pumpkins. Varieties like ‘Jack Be Littles’ or ‘Pie Pumpkins’ are ideal. These smaller pumpkins boast a naturally sweet, smooth flesh and are significantly easier to handle and cut compared to their larger counterparts. Their dense texture holds up beautifully during air frying, ensuring tender centers and crispy edges. Avoid the larger carving pumpkins, as they tend to be stringier and more watery, which can lead to soggy fries.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A light coating of extra virgin olive oil is key to achieving that desirable crispiness in the air fryer. The oil helps the pumpkin fries brown evenly and creates a delicious outer crust. While EVOO is my preferred choice for its flavor and health benefits, feel free to substitute with regular olive oil or avocado oil. Both are excellent alternatives due to their high smoke points, making them suitable for air frying.
Seasoning: We’re keeping the seasoning blend straightforward yet impactful to complement the pumpkin’s natural sweetness. A simple mix of salt, aromatic garlic powder, and smoky paprika creates a complex and irresistible flavor profile. The savory notes from the garlic powder, combined with the subtle smokiness of the paprika, perfectly balance the inherent sweetness of the pumpkin. This combination makes for an incredibly addictive side dish.

Step-by-Step: Cutting and Preparing Mini Pumpkins

Properly preparing your pumpkin is the foundation for delicious air fryer fries. While pumpkins can seem intimidating to cut, these simple steps will make the process safe and efficient, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Pro Tip: Always use a sharp, sturdy chef’s knife for safety and efficiency. To prevent your cutting board from slipping, place a damp cloth or paper towel underneath it. This creates friction and keeps the board stable, reducing the risk of accidents.

Step 1: Stabilize the Pumpkin. Begin by carefully slicing off the very top and bottom ends of each pumpkin. This creates flat, stable surfaces, allowing the pumpkin to stand upright on your cutting board. Once stable, carefully cut each pumpkin in half lengthwise, from top to bottom.
Step 2: Peel with Ease. Before you even think about scooping out the seeds, it’s significantly easier to peel the pumpkin. Use a good quality vegetable peeler to remove the tough outer skin. Work from top to bottom, rotating the pumpkin as you go, until all the skin is removed.
Step 3: Remove Seeds (and Save Them!). Now that the pumpkin halves are peeled, use a spoon or an ice cream scoop to thoroughly scrape out the stringy pulp and all the seeds from the center. Don’t discard those seeds! They can be transformed into another fantastic air fryer snack. Check out our recipe for crispy air fryer pumpkin seeds.
Step 4: Slice into “Fries”. With the pumpkin clean and peeled, lay the halves flat-side down on your cutting board. Carefully slice the pumpkin into approximately 1/2-inch thick pieces. Aim for uniform thickness across all slices – this is crucial for even cooking. The goal is to create pieces that resemble thick-cut potato fries, ensuring a satisfying bite.

Mastering Air Fryer Pumpkin Fries: Two Delicious Methods

One of the beauties of air frying is its versatility. Depending on your time and desired texture, you can achieve fantastic results with your pumpkin fries. Here are two tried-and-true methods to make perfect pumpkin fries in your air fryer, catering to both quick meals and those moments when you crave extra crispiness.

Method 1: Air Fry in One Batch (For Quick and Tender Results)

This method is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious side dish fast. While the fries will be wonderfully tender and flavorful, they won’t achieve the same level of crispness as the second method due to being slightly crowded.

Seasoning: Place all your prepared 1/2-inch pumpkin slices into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle them generously with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with your chosen seasonings (garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt). Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring each pumpkin piece is evenly coated.
Load the Air Fryer: Carefully transfer all the seasoned pumpkin slices into your air fryer basket. Don’t worry if they overlap slightly; for this quick method, it’s acceptable.
Air Fry: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for approximately 15 minutes.
Shake for Evenness: To promote even cooking and prevent sticking, make sure to stir the fries or vigorously shake the air fryer basket once or twice during the cooking process.
Result: After 15 minutes, or once the pumpkin is fork-tender, your fries are ready. They will be soft and sweet on the inside, with lightly browned edges, offering a fantastic roasted flavor and a tender texture. This is an excellent option when you prioritize speed and deliciousness over a super-crispy crunch.

Method 2: Air Fry in Multiple Batches (For Ultimate Crispy Perfection)

If you’re after that truly crispy, golden-brown exterior akin to traditional potato fries, this method is for you. It requires a little more time and effort, but the payoff in texture is absolutely worth it. The secret lies in a pre-soak and careful cooking.

The Soaking Secret: Begin by placing your pumpkin slices in a large bowl and covering them with cold water. Let them soak for about an hour. This crucial step helps draw out excess starch from the pumpkin, which is the primary factor in achieving extra crispiness. Think of it like preparing potatoes for crispy fries – the starch removal is key!
Thorough Drying is Essential: After soaking, drain the pumpkin slices exceptionally well. Then, spread them out on a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels. Pat them thoroughly dry. Any residual moisture will steam the pumpkin instead of crisping it, so this step cannot be skipped or rushed.
Season and Coat: Transfer the dried pumpkin slices to a large bowl. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with your chosen seasonings. Toss vigorously to ensure every piece is evenly coated. For an even crispier result, consider adding half a teaspoon of cornstarch to the seasoning mix before tossing. Cornstarch creates a thin, crispy layer when cooked.
Single Layer, Multiple Batches: Arrange the seasoned pumpkin slices in a single layer within your air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd them. Ample space for air circulation is paramount for crisping. This means you will need to cook the fries in multiple batches – typically 3-4, depending on the size of your air fryer.
Air Fry to Perfection: Air fry each batch at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 10 minutes, or until the pumpkin is fork-tender on the inside and beautifully golden brown and crispy on the outside. You may need to shake the basket once or twice during each batch to ensure even browning.
Keep Warm: Since you’ll be cooking in batches, you’ll want to keep the earlier batches warm while the others cook. A good trick is to preheat your oven to its lowest setting (around 200°F / 95°C) and place the finished fries on a baking sheet inside to stay warm and retain their crispness until all batches are done.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Pumpkin Fries

What type of pumpkin is best for pumpkin fries?

For the absolute best air fryer pumpkin fries, I highly recommend using small, sweet varieties like ‘Jack Be Littles’ or ‘Pie Pumpkins’ (also sometimes called Sugar Pumpkins). These types are specifically bred for cooking and baking. They boast a naturally sweet flavor, a dense and smooth flesh, and are far less fibrous or watery than larger pumpkins. Their manageable size also makes them much easier to peel and cut into uniform fry shapes. Conversely, avoid using large carving pumpkins, like those used for jack-o-lanterns. While technically edible, their flesh tends to be stringy, watery, and lacks the concentrated sweetness needed for delicious fries. They can also be a struggle to cut and peel due to their size and tough exterior, and their high water content will lead to soggy rather than crispy results.

How do you get crispy pumpkin fries?

Achieving genuinely crispy air fryer pumpkin fries boils down to a few key techniques. First, and perhaps most importantly, is the pre-soak: submerge your raw pumpkin slices in cold water for about an hour. This process helps to extract excess starch, which is a major culprit in preventing crispiness. After soaking, thoroughly drain and pat the pumpkin slices bone-dry using paper towels or a clean tea towel – any lingering moisture will steam the pumpkin instead of allowing it to crisp. When air frying, always arrange the fries in a single layer in the basket; overcrowding creates steam and prevents air circulation. This means you’ll likely need to cook in multiple batches. For an extra layer of crispness, consider tossing the pumpkin with a tiny amount of cornstarch (about half a teaspoon for two small pumpkins) along with your oil and seasonings. Finally, ensure your air fryer is fully preheated to the recommended temperature before adding the fries.

How do you store and reheat leftover pumpkin fries?

Air fryer pumpkin fries are undoubtedly at their peak freshness and crispiness immediately after cooking. However, if you happen to have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat them and bring back some of their original glory, avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy. Instead, arrange the chilled fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and reheat them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in your air fryer for just a few minutes (3-5 minutes at 375°F / 190°C), shaking the basket once, until they are hot and re-crisped. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Expert Tips for Your Best Air Fryer Pumpkin Fries

Air Fryer Variations: Keep in mind that air fryers can vary significantly in power and efficiency. The cooking times and temperatures provided in this recipe are based on a Philips air fryer with a 2.75-quart capacity. Depending on your specific air fryer model and brand, you may need to make slight adjustments to achieve the perfect results. It’s always a good idea to monitor your fries closely during cooking, especially the first time you make them.
Uniform Thickness is Key: For consistent cooking, strive to cut all your pumpkin fries into uniform 1/2-inch thick slices. If some pieces are thicker than others, they will take longer to cook through, while thinner pieces might burn. Evenly sized fries ensure that every bite is perfectly tender and delicious.
Pre-Cut Pumpkin Option: If you’re short on time or prefer to skip the cutting, many grocery stores offer pre-cut pumpkin. This can be a great shortcut! Just be sure to check the size of the pieces. If they are cut into larger chunks or cubes, you might need to increase the air frying time by a few minutes to ensure they are fork-tender. You can also quickly trim them down to 1/2-inch thick slices if you prefer the classic “fry” shape.
Flavor Customization: The base recipe provides a wonderful smokey and salty flavor profile, which pairs beautifully with the sweet pumpkin. However, taste preferences are personal! If this blend isn’t entirely to your liking, feel free to reduce the amount of seasoning used. Alternatively, get creative with other spices. Consider a more herbaceous blend with dried oregano and thyme, a spicy kick with chili powder or cayenne, or an earthy depth with cumin. For a sweeter treat, a sprinkle of cinnamon and a touch of maple syrup after cooking can be delightful.

Creative Ways to Serve Your Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin

Air fryer pumpkin fries are incredibly versatile and can elevate a wide variety of meals. Here are some delicious ideas to inspire you:

Holiday Staple: Naturally, they make an exceptional and unique side dish alongside your traditional turkey or ham for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, adding a touch of seasonal elegance.
Gourmet Garnish: Elevate their presentation and flavor by adding a sprinkle of savory pecan granola to the top just before serving. The crunch and nutty notes are a perfect complement. Alternatively, toss them with some freshly crushed crispy sage leaves for an aromatic and earthy touch.
Dipping Delight: Serve them with your favorite dip! A creamy, zesty vegan jalapeño dip or a smoky chipotle dip would offer a fantastic contrast to the sweet pumpkin.
Meal Booster: Incorporate them into larger meals. They’re fantastic served alongside a hearty grain bowl, adding texture and nutrients. Toss them into a fresh, green leafy salad for an autumnal twist, or integrate them directly into this roasted root vegetable salad with kale for an extra layer of flavor and color.
Simple Snack: Enjoy them on their own as a healthy and satisfying snack between meals. They’re surprisingly filling and a great way to enjoy vegetables.

More Air Fryer Side Dish Inspiration

If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and deliciousness of air-fried pumpkin, you’ll be thrilled to know the air fryer can work wonders on many other vegetables too! Explore these other fantastic air fryer side dish recipes:

Air Fryer Beets – A colorful medley of red, golden, and candy cane beets, roasted to tender perfection.
Air Fryer Butternut Squash – Sweet and savory home fries that are perfect for any holiday meal or cozy dinner.
Air Fryer Radishes – Surprisingly tender and beautifully roasted, these radishes turn a delightful shade of pink.
Air Fryer Carrots – Featuring versatile flavor options including sweet, spicy, and savory to suit any palate.
Air Fryer Green Beans – A wonderfully simple and healthy side dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes.
Air Fryer Turnip Fries – Golden brown veggie fries with a unique garlicky and smoky flavor profile.

We hope you enjoy these Air Fryer Pumpkin Fries as much as we do! If you give this recipe a try, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Please share your feedback in the comments section below!

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Air Fryer Pumpkin Fries Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star
5 from 7 reviews

Author: Leanne
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Air Fry
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Air Fryer Pumpkin Fries are an easy and delicious way to enjoy roasted pumpkin, offering a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors with just a few ingredients. This recipe provides two air frying methods to help you achieve your desired texture: quick and tender or perfectly crispy!

Ingredients

2 mini pumpkins, such as Jack Be Littles or Pie Pumpkins, peeled, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch thick slices (refer to cutting tips above for guidance)
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil (or preferred high smoke point oil like avocado oil)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch for extra crispiness (recommended for Method 2)

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Instructions

Method 1: Quicker Version – Air Fry in One Large Batch (Tender Results)

Add the prepared 1/2-inch pumpkin slices to a large bowl. Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with all seasonings (garlic powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt). Toss thoroughly until all pieces are evenly coated.
Place all the seasoned pumpkin into the air fryer basket. It’s okay if they overlap slightly for this method. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 15 minutes, or until the pumpkin is fork-tender. Make sure to shake or stir the fries at least once at the mid-way point (around 7-8 minutes) to promote more even cooking.

Method 2: Crispier Version – Air Fry in Multiple Batches (Ultimate Crispy Results)

Place the 1/2-inch thick pumpkin slices in a large bowl and cover them completely with cold water. Let them soak for about 60 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, which is key for crispiness.
After soaking, drain the pumpkin slices very well. Spread them out on several layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and pat them thoroughly dry. This step is critical; moisture will prevent crisping.
Return the dried pumpkin slices to a large bowl. Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with all seasonings (garlic powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt), and add the optional 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch if using. Toss vigorously to ensure every piece is evenly coated.
Arrange the seasoned pumpkin slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. You will need to air fry these in multiple batches (likely 3-4 batches, depending on your air fryer size). Air fry each batch at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the pumpkin is fork-tender on the inside and beautifully golden brown and crispy on the outside. Shake the basket once or twice during each batch to ensure even browning. Keep finished batches warm in a low oven (around 200°F / 95°C) while the remaining batches cook.

Notes

The total recipe time of 30 minutes (15 min prep, 15 min cook) is based on using Method 1 (air frying the pumpkin in a single batch). If you opt for Method 2, which includes soaking the pumpkin fries and air frying in multiple batches for maximum crispiness, the total preparation and cooking time will increase significantly, potentially to almost 2 hours.
For this recipe, ‘Jack Be Little’ pumpkins were used due to their ideal texture and sweetness. However, you can substitute with other small, edible pumpkin varieties like ‘Pie Pumpkins’ or ‘Sugar Pumpkins,’ which also yield excellent results.
Consistency in cutting is crucial. Ensure all your pumpkin fries are cut to approximately 1/2-inch thickness. This uniformity guarantees that they cook evenly, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others become overdone.
The suggested seasoning blend creates a delightful smoky and salty flavor profile that complements the pumpkin’s sweetness. If this specific flavor isn’t quite your preference, feel free to adjust the amount of seasonings or experiment with alternative spices such as dried oregano, a pinch of chili powder for a gentle kick, or earthy cumin.
Air fryer performance can vary between models. The provided recipe instructions are based on a Philips air fryer with a 2.75-quart capacity. Depending on the specific size and brand of your air fryer, you may need to fine-tune the temperature or adjust the air frying time slightly. Always keep an eye on your fries as they cook.
For comprehensive advice and additional suggestions on making this recipe truly outstanding, be sure to review the detailed sections located above this recipe card. They offer valuable insights into ingredient selection, cutting techniques, and serving ideas.