Save Pin Crispy spiral potatoes on skewers, seasoned to perfection and air-fried for a healthier, fun-to-eat snack or side dish. These air-fryer tornado potatoes are an eye-catching addition to any meal, delivering crunch and flavor without deep frying.
I first tried tornado potatoes at a summer fair, and recreating them in my air fryer brought all those happy memories back. The flavor-packed spirals are always a hit with my family!
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 potatoes:
- Insert a long wooden or metal skewer lengthwise through the center of each potato.
- Slice spirals:
- Holding the skewer, use a sharp knife to cut the potato in a spiral motion, rotating it as you slice from one end to the other. Gently stretch the potato on the skewer for even spacing.
- Prepare seasoning:
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Season potatoes:
- Brush or rub the seasoning mixture over each spiraled potato, making sure it gets between the layers.
- Preheat air fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Arrange spirals:
- Place the skewered potatoes in the air fryer basket so they do not touch.
- Air fry:
- Air-fry for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Add toppings:
- Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan, parsley, and chili flakes before serving.
Save Pin My kids love helping make these spirals—it's a great way to get everyone involved in the kitchen. Serving them with dips always leads to big smiles around our table.
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, but always check seasoning blends for hidden allergens. Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 180, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 28 g, Protein 3 g
Save Pin Serve hot for maximum crunch and flavor. These tornado potatoes will turn any meal into a celebration!
Recipe FAQs
- → How are the potatoes cut into spirals?
Insert a skewer through each potato and use a sharp knife to slice in a spiral, carefully rotating as you cut.
- → How do I get extra crispy potatoes?
Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes and dry thoroughly before air-frying.
- → What seasonings complement this dish?
Olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper deliver robust flavor; customize with chili flakes or cheese.
- → Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Yes, sweet potatoes offer a delicious twist and pair well with the same spice blend.
- → What dips go well with spiral potatoes?
Popular choices include aioli, ketchup, or sour cream for flavorful dipping experiences.
- → Is this a gluten-free dish?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free; always check seasoning labels to be sure.