Every Halloween, Shaym goes all in. We’re talking costume parties, DIY decor, and themed snacks that toe the line between adorable and impressive. A few years ago, while prepping for a spooky movie night, he looked at a bag of potatoes and thought: “What if these were…pumpkins?” That was the spark. Now, these Halloween pumpkin potatoes in the air fryer are a SoolFood tradition.
They’re spooky-cute, super crispy, and ridiculously simple to make. You don’t need fancy tools or deep-frying mess. Just potatoes, a little seasoning, and your air fryer. Bonus: kids love helping shape them, even if the pumpkins end up a little “abstract.”
🍂 Why You’ll Love These Halloween Potatoes
Halloween snacks tend to be sugar-loaded or store-bought. But this recipe is different. It’s a playful way to enjoy fall flavors with a healthy twist. The potatoes turn beautifully golden in the air fryer, using just a small drizzle of oil. You can cut them into jack-o’-lantern shapes (if you’re crafty) or use a small pumpkin cookie cutter for uniform slices.
If you’re planning a Halloween-themed dinner, these go great with a side of Air Fryer Sweet Potato or even Blooming Onion in Air Fryer for extra crunch.
These air fryer potatoes make:
- An after-school snack that’s not candy
- A cute party appetizer
- A fun edible activity for kids
- A festive side dish for dinner
Best of all? You’re using what you likely already have in your kitchen.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 medium Yukon gold or russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but adds color)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)
🔪 Tools
- Sharp knife or small pumpkin-shaped cookie cutter
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Silicone brush (optional)
👩🍳 How to Make Halloween Pumpkin Potatoes in the Air Fryer
- Prep the Potatoes
Wash and peel the potatoes. Slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds, not too thick, not too thin. - Shape Them
Use your cookie cutter to stamp pumpkin shapes. No cutter? Use a knife to carve a rough pumpkin silhouette. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect. Halloween is all about spooky charm. - Season
Toss the cutouts in olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let them sit for 5–10 minutes to soak up the flavor. - Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the potatoes in a single layer, don’t overcrowd. Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should be golden and crispy. - Serve
Sprinkle with fresh herbs if using. Serve hot with your favorite dip (try a garlic aioli or spicy ketchup).
👻 Tips from Shaym’s Kitchen
- Make it a party: Set up a decorating station with edible eyes, dips, or even a cheese web on top.
- Crave sweetness? Swap in sweet potatoes and add a dusting of cinnamon and chili powder.
- Serve them with: Easy Halloween Party Treats for a full spooky spread.
These Halloween pumpkin potatoes in the air fryer are proof that festive can also be fresh, fast, and fun. Whether you’re feeding trick-or-treaters or just watching “Hocus Pocus” on the couch, these crispy little pumpkins always vanish fast.
🥔 Full Recipe Card: Halloween Pumpkin Potatoes in the Air Fryer
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Servings: 3–4
Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes (Yukon gold or russet)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional garnish)
Instructions:
- Wash, peel, and slice potatoes into ¼-inch rounds.
- Cut pumpkin shapes using a cookie cutter or small knife.
- In a bowl, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange in a single layer and air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Sprinkle herbs on top and serve warm.