Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes

Featured in: Western Fresh Plates

Create golden spiral potatoes by slicing and skewering, then air-frying with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. These crispy skewers make a fun, healthier snack or side. Optional toppings like Parmesan, parsley, or chili flakes enhance flavor and presentation. Soak potatoes for added crunch and pair with favorite dips for an extra tasty experience. Gluten-free and vegetarian, with easy adjustments for vegan diets. Perfect for serving at gatherings or as a unique appetizer.

Updated on Mon, 03 Nov 2025 16:06:00 GMT
Crispy air-fryer tornado potatoes topped with Parmesan and fresh parsley skewers.  Save
Crispy air-fryer tornado potatoes topped with Parmesan and fresh parsley skewers. | epicurestates.com

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 county fair and was amazed by the crispy edges and savory seasoning. Now, making them at home in the air fryer is a family favorite that everyone loves to help prepare.

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
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): 2 tbsp (omit for vegan)
  • Chopped fresh parsley (optional): 1 tbsp
  • Chili flakes (optional): ½ tsp

Instructions

Skewer 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, rotating as you slice from one end to the other. Gently stretch along the skewer to space out the spirals.
Season:
Mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Brush or rub the mixture over each potato, getting it between the spirals.
Preheat Air Fryer:
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Air-Fry:
Place skewered potatoes in the basket so they don't touch. Air-fry for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Optional Toppings:
Sprinkle with Parmesan, fresh parsley, and chili flakes before serving if desired.
Golden spiral potatoes seasoned with garlic and smoked paprika, perfect for snacking.  Save
Golden spiral potatoes seasoned with garlic and smoked paprika, perfect for snacking. | epicurestates.com

These potatoes kicked off a new tradition at family cookouts. Everyone gathers around to help spiral and season the potatoes — it becomes a fun group activity before they disappear off the serving platter.

Required Tools

Air fryer, long wooden or metal skewers, sharp knife, small bowl, pastry brush (optional)

Allergen Information

Contains milk only if Parmesan cheese is used. Always check seasoning blends for gluten or allergens, and use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories 180, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 28 g, Protein 3 g

Deliciously seasoned air-fried tornado potatoes, ideal for parties or family gatherings. Save
Deliciously seasoned air-fried tornado potatoes, ideal for parties or family gatherings. | epicurestates.com

Serve tornado potatoes warm straight from the air fryer. They're sure to impress at any gathering with their crunchy texture and fun spiral shape.

Recipe FAQs

How do I keep the potatoes crispy?

Soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes and pat dry before seasoning and air-frying for maximum crispiness.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes, sweet potatoes can be substituted for russet potatoes to provide a different flavor and similar texture.

How do I spiral the potatoes properly?

Insert a skewer lengthwise, then rotate while slicing in a spiral motion with a sharp knife, creating even spacing.

What toppings work well?

Try grated Parmesan, fresh parsley, or chili flakes. Serve with dips like aioli, ketchup, or sour cream for extra flavor.

Is this suitable for a gluten-free or vegan diet?

Yes, it is gluten-free. For a vegan version, use dairy-free cheese or skip the Parmesan topping.

Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes

Spiral potatoes seasoned and air-fried for a crispy, flavorful snack or side. Customizable toppings included.

Prep duration
15 min
Cook duration
25 min
Complete duration
40 min


Complexity Medium

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

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 black pepper

Optional Toppings

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

Directions

Phase 01

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

Phase 02

Spiral Cutting: Holding the skewer, use a sharp knife to slice each potato in a spiral motion, rotating the potato while slicing from one end to the other. Carefully stretch the potato along the skewer to create evenly spaced spirals.

Phase 03

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

Phase 04

Seasoning Application: Brush or rub the prepared seasoning mixture evenly onto each spiraled potato, ensuring thorough coverage between the layers.

Phase 05

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

Phase 06

Cooking Process: Arrange skewered potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring sufficient space between each. Air-fry for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the potatoes are golden and crisp.

Phase 07

Finishing Touches: If desired, garnish with Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and chili flakes immediately before serving.

Necessary tools

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

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and consult with healthcare professionals if you're uncertain.
  • Contains milk if Parmesan cheese is used. Seasoning blends may contain hidden allergens; verify packaging for gluten and other ingredients. Substitute with dairy-free cheese for vegan adaptation.

Nutritional information (each portion)

These values are offered as a general guide and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 180
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Protein: 3 g