Sometimes the simplest snacks steal the spotlight, and these Thanksgiving Roasted Pumpkin Seeds are proof. I remember making them for the first time after carving pumpkins with my family—the warm, toasty aroma filled the kitchen, and the crunchy seeds disappeared faster than I expected. Lightly seasoned and roasted to perfection, they make a festive, healthy snack for Thanksgiving gatherings. Whether served as an appetizer, sprinkled on salads, or enjoyed by the handful, roasted pumpkin seeds bring a touch of seasonal flavor and crunch to your holiday table.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh pumpkin seeds (cleaned and rinsed)
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional variations: cinnamon and sugar, chili powder, or rosemary
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse pumpkin seeds thoroughly, removing any stringy pumpkin flesh. Pat seeds dry with a towel. In a mixing bowl, toss seeds with olive oil or butter, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly coated. Spread seeds in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and crispy. Let cool before serving.
Substitutions
Swap olive oil with coconut oil for a sweeter taste. Use cayenne pepper for spicier seeds. Try cinnamon and sugar for a sweet holiday variation. Replace paprika with curry powder for a savory twist.
Equipment
Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Towel for drying seeds
Wooden spoon or spatula
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Store roasted seeds in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Serving tip: Re-crisp in the oven for 5 minutes if needed before serving.
Top Tips
Dry seeds thoroughly before roasting for maximum crunch. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—this ensures even crisping. Stir seeds halfway for uniform roasting. Experiment with spice blends to suit your guests’ tastes.
FAQs
Do I need to boil pumpkin seeds before roasting? Not necessary, but boiling in salted water first can make them crunchier.
Can I use store-bought pumpkin seeds? Yes, but fresh seeds from pumpkins feel more festive and flavorful.
Are roasted pumpkin seeds healthy? Absolutely—they’re packed with protein, fiber, and magnesium.
What can I serve them with? They’re great as a snack, salad topping, or garnish for soups.