Don’t throw away those pumpkin guts! Roasting Homemade Pumpkin Seeds is one of the best parts of carving a jack-o’-lantern, and this recipe for Ranch Roasted Pumpkin Seeds will become your new go-to. This is the ultimate Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Recipe for anyone who loves a savory, crunchy, and incredibly addictive snack. The zesty, herby flavor of dry ranch seasoning is the perfect complement to the nutty taste of toasted pumpkin seeds. It’s the perfect Pumpkin Seeds Snack for a party, a game day, or just for munching on a crisp autumn day.

Why This is the Best Savory Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

When it comes to Seasoned Pumpkin Seeds, this recipe is a clear winner. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Incredibly Easy: With just three main ingredients, this recipe is practically foolproof.
Packed with Flavor: The dry ranch seasoning packet is a perfect, all-in-one Pumpkin Seed Seasoning that delivers a huge punch of savory, zesty flavor.
Super Crunchy Texture: Following the simple steps of drying and roasting ensures your pumpkin seeds will be perfectly crisp and crunchy, never chewy.
A Fun, No-Waste Recipe: It’s a fantastic way to use the entire pumpkin and create a delicious, healthy snack from scratch.

Your Simple Ingredient Checklist

You only need a few pantry staples to create these amazing Savory Pumpkin Seeds.

The Ingredient Lineup:

1 cup of raw pumpkin seeds (from one medium pumpkin)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 (0.4-ounce) packet of dry ranch salad dressing and seasoning mix
Kosher salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfectly crisp and flavorful pumpkin seeds.

Part 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Seeds

Clean the Seeds: After carving your pumpkin, separate the seeds from the stringy pulp. A good tip is to do this in a large bowl of water—the seeds will float while the pulp sinks. Skim the seeds off the top and discard the pulp.
Dry the Seeds: Rinse the seeds well in a colander. Then, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Let them air dry for at least 30 minutes, or even a few hours. This drying step is crucial for getting them super crispy!

Part 2: Roast and Season

Preheat and Oil: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the paper towels and drizzle the dried seeds with olive oil. Use your hands to toss them until every seed is lightly coated. Spread them back into a single, even layer.
Roast: Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring the seeds every 5 minutes. This frequent stirring is key to ensure they roast evenly and don’t burn. The seeds are done when they are golden brown, fragrant, and crunchy.
Season Immediately: While the seeds are still hot, transfer them to a bowl. Immediately sprinkle the entire packet of dry ranch seasoning mix over them and toss vigorously to coat every seed.
Cool and Serve: Taste a seed and add a pinch of kosher salt if needed. Let the seeds cool completely before serving. The flavors will become even more pronounced as they cool.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I make sure my Homemade Pumpkin Seeds are crispy, not chewy? The most important step for a crispy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Recipe is to make sure the seeds are as dry as possible before you roast them. Letting them air dry for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) after washing them makes a huge difference. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan, and be sure to stir them every 5 minutes during baking.

2. Can I use a different Pumpkin Seed Seasoning? Absolutely! While this Ranch Roasted Pumpkin Seeds recipe is a favorite, you can use the same method with many other seasonings. Try tossing the hot, roasted seeds with taco seasoning, everything bagel seasoning, or a simple mix of garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

3. How many seeds will I get from my pumpkin? It varies, but a standard medium-sized pie or sugar pumpkin (the kind best for baking) will typically yield about one cup of seeds. A larger jack-o’-lantern style pumpkin will yield significantly more, so you may need to use two baking sheets and double the oil and seasoning.

4. How should I store this Pumpkin Seeds Snack? Once the seeds have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crunchy for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead snack for any occasion.