Pin 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.