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.

I remember making these air-fryer tornado potatoes for a weekend movie night. Watching everyone try to twist a spiral off the skewer really made for some laughs, and nobody complained about having seconds!

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: 2 tbsp (omit for vegan)
• Fresh parsley: 1 tbsp, chopped
• Chili flakes: ½ tsp (optional)

Instructions

Prepare potatoes:

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

Create 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.

Season potatoes:

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Brush or rub the seasoning mixture evenly over each spiraled potato, ensuring it gets between the layers.

Air-fry:

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

Save

This is one of those recipes that always gets requests from my kids, especially if we're having a homemade game night together. Simple ingredients, but so much fun to eat as a family.

Required Tools

You will need an air fryer, long skewers, a sharp knife, and a small bowl for mixing your seasonings. Using a pastry brush makes distributing the olive oil mixture easier, but you can also use your hands for that rustic feel.

Allergen Information

Contains milk only if Parmesan cheese is used. To keep it vegan, use dairy-free cheese or omit it entirely. Always check seasoning blends for hidden gluten or allergens.

Nutritional Information

Each serving has around 180 calories, 7 g total fat, 28 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein. This makes it a lighter alternative to classic fried potatoes.

Save

Serve these right away for the crispiest texture and best flavor. They're sure to be the hit of any gathering or family night!

Recipe Guide

→ How do you get the spiral shape?

Insert a skewer through each potato, then slice in a spiral motion while rotating for even spirals.

→ Can I use sweet potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a unique flavor and vibrant color.

→ How do I make the potatoes extra crispy?

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

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free. Always verify your seasoning blends to ensure no hidden gluten.

→ What dips go well with this dish?

Popular options include aioli, ketchup, or sour cream. Experiment with your favorites for variety.

→ What tools do I need?

You'll need an air fryer, skewers, a sharp knife, a small bowl, and a pastry brush.