Save Crispy spiral potatoes on skewers, seasoned to perfection and air-fried for a healthier, fun-to-eat snack or side dish. This dish brings playful presentation and irresistible crunch together on one plate.
The first time I tried making tornado potatoes at home, my family couldn&t get enough of the crispy edges and flavorful seasoning. Making them in the air fryer transformed a restaurant treat into a simple weeknight snack we all enjoyed.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 4 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed
- Seasoning: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional Toppings: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (omit for vegan), 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Skewer Potatoes:
- Insert a long wooden or metal skewer lengthwise through the center of each potato.
- 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.
- Create Seasoning:
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Season Potatoes:
- Brush or rub the seasoning mixture evenly over each spiraled potato, ensuring it gets between the layers.
- Preheat Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Arrange & Air-Fry:
- Place the skewered potatoes in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch.
- Cook Until Crispy:
- 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 Making these together as a family turned dinner prep into a fun kitchen activity. Everyone loved taking turns spiraling and seasoning, making it a memorable snack night.
Required Tools
To make tornado potatoes, you need an air fryer, long wooden or metal skewers, a sharp knife, a small bowl, and a pastry brush for even seasoning.
Allergen Information
This recipe is gluten-free. It contains milk if using Parmesan cheese, but you can use dairy-free cheese for a vegan alternative.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has 180 calories, 7 g total fat, 28 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein, making it a lighter choice for potato lovers.
Save These air-fryer tornado potatoes are sure to please everyone. Serve them hot and enjoy their irresistible crunch straight from the basket.
Kitchen Q&A
- → How do you achieve spiraled potato slices?
Insert a skewer lengthwise through a potato, then use a sharp knife in a spiral motion to create even slices.
- → What makes the potatoes crispy in the air fryer?
Coating the spiraled potatoes with olive oil and spices before air-frying helps create a golden, crispy shell.
- → Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Yes, sweet potatoes work well and offer a unique flavor with the same spiral preparation and air-frying method.
- → Are these potatoes gluten-free?
Yes, the dish is naturally gluten-free. Always check your seasoning blends to ensure they’re free of hidden gluten.
- → What dips pair well with tornado potatoes?
You can serve with aioli, sour cream, ketchup, or any favorite dipping sauce to complement the crispiness.
- → How can I make this vegan?
Omit Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a completely vegan-friendly option.