Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes

Featured in: Vegetarian Favorites

Enjoy crispy spiral potatoes air-fried for a golden finish. Skewer russet potatoes, slice into spirals, then coat generously with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Air fry at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, turning once for even crispiness. Finish with Parmesan, fresh parsley, or chili flakes to taste. This snack or side is vegetarian, gluten-free, and easily adaptable for vegan diets—just omit cheese. For extra crunch, soak the sliced potatoes in cold water before drying and seasoning. Serve hot with your favorite dips for a fun, flavorful treat.

Updated on Fri, 07 Nov 2025 10:36:00 GMT
Crispy air-fryer tornado potatoes on skewers, seasoned for a tasty snack.  Save
Crispy air-fryer tornado potatoes on skewers, seasoned for a tasty snack. | whisknjoy.com

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

After discovering tornado potatoes at a food festival, I was determined to recreate them at home with an air fryer for a lighter, equally delicious treat. The first batch was a huge hit, especially with kids who loved eating potatoes on sticks!

Ingredients

  • Russet potatoes: 4 medium, 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

Skewer Potatoes:
Insert a long wooden or metal skewer lengthwise through the center of each potato.
Cut Spiral:
Holding the skewer, use a sharp knife to cut the potato in a spiral motion, rotating as you slice from end to end. Gently stretch the potato along the skewer for even spacing.
Season:
Mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt and black pepper. Brush mixture thoroughly onto spiral potatoes, getting between the layers.
Preheat Air Fryer:
Set air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Cook:
Place skewered potatoes in basket, making sure they do not touch. Air-fry for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy.
Finish & Serve:
Sprinkle with Parmesan, parsley, and chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Golden, spiral-cut potatoes seasoned with herbs, perfect for game day gatherings.  Save
Golden, spiral-cut potatoes seasoned with herbs, perfect for game day gatherings. | whisknjoy.com

One Saturday my family gathered in the kitchen, everyone wanted a turn making their own potato spiral and tasting different toppings. It was the perfect snack for game night together.

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 ingredients.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 180 Protein: 3 g Carbohydrates: 28 g Total Fat: 7 g

Delicious air-fryer tornado potatoes with olive oil and spices, served warm. Save
Delicious air-fryer tornado potatoes with olive oil and spices, served warm. | whisknjoy.com

Get creative with dips and toppings for new flavors every time. These tornado potatoes always disappear fast so make extra!

Recipe FAQ

How do I achieve a uniform spiral cut?

Use a long skewer and gently slice the potato in a continuous spiral motion, keeping the knife steady and rotating the potato as you cut from end to end.

Can I use sweet potatoes for this dish?

Yes, sweet potatoes offer a unique flavor and work well. Adjust cooking times slightly as they may crisp up faster.

What air fryer temperature produces the best results?

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for optimal crispiness and golden color.

How do I make this dairy-free?

Simply omit Parmesan cheese or use plant-based dairy-free alternatives to keep the dish vegan-friendly.

Can I prepare potatoes ahead of time?

Slice and soak potatoes in cold water up to a few hours before air frying. Pat dry before seasoning to maintain crispiness.

What dips pair well with these potatoes?

Pairs nicely with aioli, ketchup, or sour cream. Choose your favorite for added taste.

Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes

Spiraled potatoes, seasoned and air-fried until crispy. A fun, healthier snack or side dish for everyone.

Prep duration
15 min
Cook duration
25 min
Complete duration
40 min
Created by Sophia Turner

Classification Vegetarian Favorites

Skill Level Medium

Cultural Background American

Output 4 Portion Count

Dietary considerations 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 salt
05 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional Toppings

01 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (omit for vegan preparation)
02 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
03 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Preparation Steps

Stage 01

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

Stage 02

Slice Spiral: While holding the skewer, use a sharp knife to cut the potato in a spiral motion, rotating as you slice from one end to the other. Carefully stretch the potato along the skewer to evenly space the spirals.

Stage 03

Prepare Seasoning Mixture: Combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.

Stage 04

Season Potatoes: Brush or rub the prepared seasoning evenly over each potato spiral, making sure to coat between all layers.

Stage 05

Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes.

Stage 06

Arrange Potatoes: Place skewered potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch.

Stage 07

Air-Fry: Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the potatoes are crisp and golden.

Stage 08

Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, parsley, and chili flakes before serving.

Necessary tools

  • Air fryer
  • Long wooden or metal skewers
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush (optional)

Allergy details

Review all ingredients for potential allergens and consult with healthcare professionals if you're unsure about any item.
  • Contains milk if Parmesan cheese is used; omit cheese or use dairy-free alternative for vegan or dairy-free servings.
  • Gluten-free preparation; verify seasoning blends for hidden gluten or allergen traces.

Nutritional content (each portion)

These values are provided as estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 180
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Proteins: 3 g