Savory Pumpkin Fritters

Category: Quick and Easy Appetizers

Crunchy outside, soft inside—these pumpkin fritters hit the perfect balance of textures. Shredded butternut squash blends with Parmesan, parsley, and just a bit of flour and egg to hold it together. Fried until golden, they turn irresistibly crispy. A dash of sea salt after frying brings out the rich flavors. Whether for simple gatherings or fancy dinners, they’re a crowd-pleasing bite.
Emily Watson
By Emily Watson Emily Watson
Last updated on Tue, 15 Apr 2025 20:53:58 GMT
A plate of golden pumpkin fritters with herbs, next to a small orange pumpkin. Pin
A plate of golden pumpkin fritters with herbs, next to a small orange pumpkin. | thefamilycooks.com

These Squash Patties pack a punch with their crunchy outside and tender middle. They're great for munching or as a meal companion, bringing all the cozy goodness of fall spices in each mouthful. Let's check out what you'll need to whip up these yummy bites.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED

  • 2 cups shredded butternut squash: This creates the foundation, giving you that sweet, earthy taste.
  • ½ onion (diced): Brings a nice savory kick to your patties.
  • 1 large egg: Works to stick everything together nicely.
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Gives your patties their shape and that nice crunch.
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Adds yummy flavor and helps them brown up.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust as needed): Perks up all the flavors.
  • 1-2 dashes black pepper or hot pepper flakes: Adds just a bit of zing.
  • ½-1 teaspoon dried parsley (or ½-1 tablespoon fresh chopped): Throws in some fresh, herby notes.
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil: For frying till they're nice and crispy.

DIRECTIONS

Step 1:
Shred your raw squash and blot it dry. Toss it in a medium bowl with the diced onion, egg, flour, Parmesan, salt, parsley, and pepper. Stir till everything's mixed well. Shape the mix into small cakes or drop spoonfuls onto a plate, gently pressing them down with your spoon.
Step 2:
Warm up 1-2 tablespoons olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Cook your squash cakes in small batches of three until they turn golden brown on both sides. Move them to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up extra oil.
Step 3:
Grab them while they're hot! The mix of crunchy outside and soft inside makes these little guys extra special.

How to Serve & Store

  • Eat them hot for the tastiest experience.
  • Try them with your favorite dip or just munch on their own.
  • Keep any extras in a sealed container at room temp for a couple days.
  • Want them to last? Pop them in the fridge (sealed tight) for up to a week, or freeze for 3 months. Heat them in the oven to make them crispy again.

Pro Chef Suggestions

  • Jamie Oliver says a sprinkle of garlic powder makes these sing.
  • According to Ina Garten, nothing beats real grated Parmesan for depth.
  • Gordon Ramsay's trick? Keep all patties the same size so they cook evenly.

MIX IT UP

  • Switch out the herbs - maybe try some rosemary or thyme for a different taste.
  • Toss in some grated carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition and texture.
  • Got a sweet tooth? Add a spoonful of maple syrup to the mix.

Crispy Pumpkin Fritters

Golden and soft inside, these crispy pumpkin fritters combine fresh butternut squash with Parmesan cheese for a snack or side everyone will love.

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
25 mins
By Emily Watson: Emily Watson

Recipe Category: Appetizers

Skill Level: Beginner

Cuisine Type: American

Makes: 4 Serves (6 fritters)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

What You’ll Need

01 2 cups of shredded squash (I went with butternut squash).
02 ½ an onion, finely chopped.
03 1 egg, large.
04 ¼ cup of plain flour.
05 ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated fresh.
06 A pinch or two of salt, as you like.
07 A sprinkle or two of chili flakes or black pepper.
08 ½-1 teaspoon of dried parsley or about ½-1 tablespoon if fresh.
09 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil to fry with.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Pat the squash dry after grating, then toss it into a medium-sized bowl. Add onion, egg, parmesan, flour, salt, pepper, and parsley. Stir it all together. Scoop out portions, shape them into patties, or just drop some mixture and gently press it flat with a spoon. (I made 6 smaller ones).

Step 02

Warm olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Cook 3 patties at a time until they're golden on both sides. Move them to a plate lined with paper towels, then enjoy them right away.

Additional Notes

  1. They're delicious hot or cooled down to room temp.
  2. Perfect for a snack or alongside your main dish.

Essential Tools

  • Bowl, medium size.
  • Non-stick skillet.
  • Plate with paper towel.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These details are for guidance only and don't replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 150
  • Fats: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Proteins: 6 g