Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes

Featured in: Snack Attack Fix

Transform russet potatoes into dazzling spirals with a simple skewering and slicing method, then coat with olive oil and classic seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, and pepper. After air-frying to golden crispness, add fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, or chili flakes for extra flavor. These tornado-style potatoes make a visually appealing and fun snack or side that’s naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. For extra crunch, soak the potatoes before cooking. Serve hot with dips like aioli or ketchup for a tasty experience that keeps things healthy and lively.

Updated on Tue, 04 Nov 2025 08:03:00 GMT
Crispy air-fryer tornado potatoes seasoned perfectly, ideal for a fun snack.  Save
Crispy air-fryer tornado potatoes seasoned perfectly, ideal for a fun snack. | fizznib.com

Crispy spiral potatoes on skewers, seasoned to perfection and air-fried for a healthier, fun-to-eat snack or side dish.

I was delighted when these tornado potatoes got rave reviews at our last game night. Everyone loved the crispy edges and the hands-on spiral cutting process made it feel like a kitchen adventure that brought us all together.

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

Prep Potatoes:
Insert a long wooden or metal skewer lengthwise through the center of each potato.
Spiral Slice:
Holding the skewer, use a sharp knife to cut the potato in a spiral motion. Rotate as you slice from one end to the other and gently stretch along the skewer to create even spacing.
Make Seasoning:
Mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
Season Potatoes:
Brush or rub seasoning mixture evenly over spiraled potatoes, making sure it gets between layers.
Preheat Air Fryer:
Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Air Fry:
Place skewered potatoes in air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Air-fry for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy.
Add Toppings:
Optional: Sprinkle Parmesan, parsley, and chili flakes before serving.
Deliciously spiraled air-fryer tornado potatoes served with fresh parsley garnish.  Save
Deliciously spiraled air-fryer tornado potatoes served with fresh parsley garnish. | fizznib.com

Making these tornado potatoes brought back memories of summer fairs and sharing fun snacks with family. Now, it's become a favorite weekend treat when we gather for movie nights.

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; 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

Golden air-fryer tornado potatoes on skewers, perfect for dipping in aioli. Save
Golden air-fryer tornado potatoes on skewers, perfect for dipping in aioli. | fizznib.com

Tornado potatoes are best enjoyed warm, straight from the air fryer. Their spiral shape makes them a showstopper at any gathering.

Cooking Guide

How do you make potatoes spiral on skewers?

Carefully insert a skewer through the potato, then slice in a spiral motion around the skewer and gently stretch for even spacing.

What seasonings complement spiral potatoes?

Olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper work well. Add parsley, Parmesan, or chili flakes for extra flavor.

How long should spiral potatoes air-fry?

Air-fry spiraled potatoes for 20–25 minutes at 375°F, turning halfway, until golden and crispy.

Can sweet potatoes be used instead?

Yes, sweet potatoes offer a delicious alternative. Slice, season, and air-fry as you would with russet potatoes.

Are tornado potatoes suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, they’re naturally gluten-free. Always check seasoning blends and optional toppings for hidden gluten.

What toppings work best for spiral potatoes?

Grated Parmesan, fresh parsley, and chili flakes are popular choices. Dairy-free cheese suits vegan diets.

Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes

Russet potatoes are spiraled, seasoned, and air-fried for a crunchy, fun snack or side, topped to your taste.

Setup duration
15 min
Heat duration
25 min
Complete duration
40 min
Created by Chloe Bennett


Complexity Medium

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition Categories Meat-Free, No Gluten

Components

Potatoes

01 4 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed

Seasoning

01 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
04 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
05 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Optional Toppings

01 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
02 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
03 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes

Method

Phase 01

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

Phase 02

Form Potato Spirals: Hold the skewer and carefully slice the potato in a spiral motion using a sharp knife, rotating from one end to the other. Gently separate the potato along the skewer to space out spiral cuts evenly.

Phase 03

Prepare Seasoning Mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and ground black pepper.

Phase 04

Season Potato Spirals: Brush or rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the entire surface of each potato, ensuring coverage between each spiral section.

Phase 05

Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F and allow to preheat for 3 minutes.

Phase 06

Arrange and Air-Fry: Evenly space the skewered potatoes in the air fryer basket so they do not touch. Cook at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes, turning the skewers halfway through, until potatoes are golden brown and crispy.

Phase 07

Finish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle with grated Parmesan, fresh parsley, and chili flakes while hot. Serve immediately.

Kitchen Tools

  • Air fryer
  • Long wooden or metal skewers
  • Sharp knife
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush

Sensitivity Guide

Review ingredients carefully for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if uncertain.
  • Contains milk if using Parmesan cheese.
  • Gluten-free; review seasoning mixes for hidden sources of gluten or allergens.
  • Opt for dairy-free cheese to accommodate vegan diets.

Dietary Information (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 180
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Proteins: 3 g