Save 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 tried making tornado potatoes in my air fryer, the family gathered around the kitchen just to watch the spiral-cutting technique. It felt extra rewarding serving these crispy golden spirals hot off the skewers.
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)
- Fresh parsley (optional): 1 tbsp, chopped
- Chili flakes (optional): ½ tsp
Instructions
- Skewer the potatoes:
- Insert a long wooden or metal skewer lengthwise through the center of each potato.
- Create spirals:
- Holding the skewer, use a sharp knife to cut the potato in a spiral motion as you rotate and slice from one end to the other. Gently stretch the potato along the skewer for even spacing.
- Season:
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Brush or rub the seasoning on each potato, making sure it gets between the spirals.
- Preheat and arrange:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Place the potatoes in the basket, spaced apart.
- Air-fry:
- Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Serve:
- Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan, parsley, and chili flakes before serving.
Save My kids love helping with the spiral slicing and get extra excited when the hot potatoes come out of the air fryer. It has become one of our most-requested movie night snacks.
Required Tools
Air fryer, long wooden or metal skewers, sharp knife, small bowl, pastry brush (optional)
Allergen Information
Contains milk if using Parmesan cheese. Gluten-free; check seasoning blends for allergens. For a vegan version, use dairy-free cheese.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 180 calories, 7 g total fat, 28 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein
Save Serve these hot with your favorite dips and enjoy every crispy bite. They always disappear fast!
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I cut potatoes into a tornado shape?
Insert a skewer through the potato and rotate it while using a sharp knife to slice in a spiral motion, then gently stretch the potato to create even spirals.
- → What type of potatoes work best?
Medium russet potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape and crisp up well when air-fried.
- → How can I make them extra crispy?
Soak the spiral-cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes after slicing to remove excess starch, then pat dry before seasoning.
- → Can I use other seasonings or toppings?
Yes, customize with your favorite spices, fresh herbs, grated cheese, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for added heat.
- → Are air-fryer tornado potatoes suitable for specific diets?
These are vegetarian and gluten-free. For a vegan option, omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- → What dips pair well with spiral potatoes?
Try dips like garlic aioli, ketchup, or sour cream to complement the savory, crispy potatoes.