Save Crispy spiral potatoes on skewers, seasoned to perfection and air-fried for a healthier, fun-to-eat snack or side dish.
I first tried making these tornado potatoes during a weekend cooking experiment with my family. The spiral shape was a hit at the table and everyone enjoyed customizing their own with different toppings.
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
- 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 Cutting:
- 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.
- Season:
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. 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.
- Cook:
- Place the skewered potatoes in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch. Air-fry for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Finish & Serve:
- Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan, fresh parsley, and chili flakes before serving.
Save One afternoon, my kids helped make these by winding the potatoes and sprinkling on extra parsley. It's become our go-to for movie nights and parties.
Required Tools
You'll need an air fryer, long skewers, a sharp knife, a small bowl for mixing seasoning, and a pastry brush to make tornado potatoes easily at home.
Allergen Information
This recipe is gluten-free and vegetarian. Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version, and check your seasoning blends for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 180 calories, 7 g total fat, 28 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein.
Save Serve these air-fryer tornado potatoes hot and crispy for a crowd-pleasing treat. They're perfect with your favorite dips for snacking or as a unique side dish.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve the spiral slice effect on potatoes?
Insert a skewer through the center of the potato, then carefully cut in a spiral motion, rotating the potato as you slice to create even spirals.
- → Can other types of potatoes be used?
Yes, sweet potatoes or other varieties may be used, but cook times may vary depending on size and starch content.
- → What seasonings work well for tornado potatoes?
A mix of olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper offers delicious flavor. Customize with your favorite spices or herbs.
- → Are these air-fried potatoes suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, they are gluten-free as long as seasonings are checked for hidden gluten or allergens.
- → How can I get extra crispy results?
Soak the spiral potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat dry thoroughly before air frying for a crunchier finish.
- → What dips pair well with tornado potatoes?
Aioli, ketchup, sour cream, or spiced yogurt are classic choices that complement the crispy, seasoned spirals.
- → Can I make these tornado potatoes vegan?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative to keep the dish vegan-friendly.