Pin It Crispy spiral potatoes on skewers, seasoned to perfection and air-fried for a healthier, fun-to-eat snack or side dish.
I first tried tornado potatoes at a fair and loved how they were crunchy outside and soft inside. Making them at home in the air fryer is even easier and lets you control flavors.
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:
- Hold the skewer, using a sharp knife to cut the potato in a spiral motion, rotating the potato as you slice, then gently stretch along the skewer
- Make Seasoning:
- Mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl
- Coat Potatoes:
- Brush or rub the seasoning mixture evenly over each spiraled potato, including between the layers
- Preheat Air Fryer:
- Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes
- Air Fry:
- Place potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch
- Cook:
- Air-fry for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy
- Finish:
- Sprinkle with Parmesan, fresh parsley, and chili flakes before serving (optional)
Pin It My family loves gathering around the table to pull apart these fun potato spirals and dip them in different sauces.
Required Tools
Air fryer, wooden or metal skewers, sharp knife, small bowl, pastry brush (optional)
Allergen Information
Contains milk if using Parmesan. Gluten-free if you check seasoning blends. Use dairy-free cheese for vegan.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 180 calories, 7 g total fat, 28 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein
Pin It Serve immediately for maximum crunch and enjoy with your favorite dips. These potatoes are always a hit at parties or family dinners!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I achieve even spirals on the potatoes?
Use a sharp knife and rotate the potato smoothly as you cut. Stretch the spiral gently to space layers evenly along the skewer.
- → Can I make these fully vegan?
Yes. Simply omit Parmesan cheese or swap for a plant-based alternative to keep the dish vegan-friendly.
- → How can I make potatoes crispier?
Soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, then dry thoroughly before seasoning and air-frying.
- → Are other potato varieties suitable?
Sweet potatoes work well and provide a unique flavor profile. Other firm potatoes may also be used for good results.
- → What are recommended dips to serve?
Popular choices include aioli, ketchup, sour cream, or spicy dips for extra flavor and variety.
- → Is the snack gluten-free?
The potatoes themselves are gluten-free. Check seasoning blends and toppings to ensure no hidden gluten.