Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes

Crispy spiral potatoes on skewers, seasoned to perfection and air-fried for a healthier, fun-to-eat snack or side dish.

The first time I made air-fryer tornado potatoes for my family, everyone was fascinated by the spirals and how crispy they turned out. They disappeared quickly, especially when paired with our favorite dipping sauces.

Ingredients

• Potatoes: 4 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Garlic powder: 1 tsp
• Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): 2 tbsp (omit for vegan)
• Chopped fresh parsley: 1 tbsp
• Chili flakes (optional): ½ tsp

Instructions

Skewer the potatoes:

Insert a long wooden or metal skewer lengthwise through the center of each potato.

Create the spiral cut:

Holding the skewer, use a sharp knife to cut the potato in a spiral motion, rotating the potato as you slice from one end to the other. Gently stretch the potato along the skewer to create even spacing between the spirals.

Mix the seasoning:

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Season the potatoes:

Brush or rub the seasoning mixture evenly over each spiraled potato, ensuring it gets between the layers.

Preheat the air fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.

Air-fry:

Place the skewered potatoes in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch.

Cook:

Air-fry for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Add toppings:

Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan, fresh parsley, and chili flakes before serving.

Pin

We love making these tornado potatoes on weekend afternoons; my kids enjoy helping with the spiral cuts and always request extra Parmesan on theirs.

Required Tools

Air fryer, long wooden or metal skewers, sharp knife, small bowl, and a pastry brush are useful for preparing these potatoes.

Allergen Information

Contains milk if Parmesan cheese is used. Always check seasoning blends for any hidden gluten or allergens, and use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides 180 calories, 7 g total fat, 28 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein.

Pin

Try these tornado potatoes fresh from the air fryer for the best crunch. They make a playful addition to any gathering or family movie night.

Recipe FAQ

→ How do I spiral slice the potatoes?

Carefully insert a skewer through the potato and slice in a spiral motion using a sharp knife, stretching gently to space the spirals.

→ What seasonings can I use for extra flavor?

Olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes or Parmesan lend depth. Experiment with favorite herbs.

→ Are there tips for crispiness?

Soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat dry before seasoning and cooking for even crispness.

→ Can I make this vegan or gluten-free?

Omit Parmesan or use dairy-free cheese for vegan. Check seasoning labels to avoid hidden gluten for a gluten-free option.

→ What dipping sauces work well?

These potatoes pair well with aioli, ketchup, sour cream, or your favorite savory dips for added flavor.

→ Which potatoes are best to use?

Medium russet potatoes work best, but sweet potatoes are a tasty alternative for a unique twist.