Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes

Featured in: Snack Fun

Experience perfectly crisp spiraled potatoes by threading russet potatoes onto skewers, slicing them in a fun spiral motion, and air-frying with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic, and black pepper. Achieve extra crunch by soaking the potatoes before seasoning, then air-fry until golden. Garnish with Parmesan, parsley, or chili flakes for a bold finish. Simple to prepare and adaptable for different diets, these tornado potatoes make a playful, delicious option for snacking or side dishes. Pair with dips like aioli or ketchup for even more flavor.

Updated on Fri, 07 Nov 2025 10:12:00 GMT
Crispy Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes, garnished with fresh parsley and chili flakes.  Save
Crispy Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes, garnished with fresh parsley and chili flakes. | grinnosh.com

Crispy spiral potatoes on skewers seasoned to perfection turn classic potatoes into an air-fried, healthier snack or side dish. Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes make for a fun and eye-catching addition to any meal that’s both tasty and simple to make.

I first tried tornado potatoes at a local street fair and was instantly hooked by their spiral shape and crunchy texture. Making them in the air fryer felt like a game-changer for quick weekend snacks with less oil and fuss.

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
  • Parmesan cheese (optional): 2 tbsp grated (omit for vegan)
  • Fresh parsley (optional): 1 tbsp chopped
  • Chili flakes (optional): ½ tsp

Instructions

Skewer & Slice:
Insert a long wooden or metal skewer lengthwise through the center of each potato. 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 potato along skewer for even spirals.
Season:
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Brush or rub mixture over potatoes, getting between layers.
Air Fry:
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Place potatoes in basket, making sure they do not touch. Air-fry 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy.
Finish & Serve:
Optional: Sprinkle with parmesan, parsley, and chili flakes before serving.
Spiral-cut Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes, perfectly seasoned and served on skewers.  Save
Spiral-cut Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes, perfectly seasoned and served on skewers. | grinnosh.com

My family loves gathering in the kitchen to shape the potatoes together—the kids compete to see who gets the longest spiral. These tornado potatoes disappear fast at movie nights or backyard cookouts!

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 but always check any seasoning blends for hidden gluten or allergens.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

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

Golden brown Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes, a fun and healthy snack option. Save
Golden brown Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes, a fun and healthy snack option. | grinnosh.com

Try these fun and flavorful spiral potatoes for your next snack craving—you’ll love making and eating them together! Easy to customize with your favorite toppings, too.

Recipe FAQ

How do I create the spiral shape?

Insert a skewer and carefully cut around the potato in a spiral motion, then gently stretch the slices along the skewer for even spirals.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes or Yukon golds can be substituted for a different texture or flavor profile.

How can I make these vegan?

Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to keep these potatoes entirely plant-based.

What dipping sauces go well?

Aioli, ketchup, or sour cream are popular choices to complement the savory, crispy potatoes.

How do I achieve extra crispiness?

Soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before seasoning and air-frying, then pat them dry thoroughly.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as prepared, these spiral potatoes are gluten-free. Always confirm seasoning mixes for hidden gluten.

Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes

Golden spiral potatoes with savory seasoning, air-fried for crunch and flavor. Enjoy as a tasty snack or side.

Prep duration
15 min
Cook duration
25 min
Complete duration
40 min
Created by Hannah Lewis

Type Snack Fun

Skill level Medium

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Dietary guidelines 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 ground black pepper

Optional Toppings

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

Directions

Stage 01

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

Stage 02

Spiral Cutting: Hold the skewer and slice each potato in a spiral motion using a sharp knife. Rotate the potato as you cut from end to end, then gently stretch the potato along the skewer to achieve even spacing.

Stage 03

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

Stage 04

Season Potato Spirals: Brush or rub the prepared seasoning mixture evenly over each spiraled potato, ensuring coverage between all layers.

Stage 05

Preheat: Set the air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes to preheat.

Stage 06

Arrange Skewers: Place the skewered potatoes in the air fryer basket with sufficient space between each to prevent sticking.

Stage 07

Air-Fry: Cook the potatoes for 20 to 25 minutes, turning each skewer halfway through, until the exterior is golden brown and crispy.

Stage 08

Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan, fresh parsley, and chili flakes prior to serving.

Necessary tools

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

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and consult with healthcare professionals if you're uncertain about ingredients.
  • Contains milk if Parmesan cheese is used; substitute dairy-free cheese for vegan needs.
  • Product is gluten-free; verify seasoning blends for hidden gluten or undeclared allergens.

Nutrient content (per portion)

These values are approximate guidelines only and shouldn't replace professional nutritional advice.
  • Energy: 180
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Proteins: 3 g