Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes

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

I still remember the first time I made tornado potatoes in the air fryer for my family: everyone was eagerly anticipating those golden spirals, and they disappeared within minutes. The air-fried method makes this treat so much lighter, and now it is a favorite for movie nights or gatherings.

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: 1 tbsp
• Chili flakes (optional): ½ tsp

Instructions

Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.

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Skewer Potatoes:

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

Create Spiral Cuts:

Holding the skewer, use a sharp knife to cut the potato in a spiral motion, rotating and slicing from one end to the other. Gently stretch the potato along the skewer for even spacing between 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, making sure it gets between layers.

Preheat Air Fryer:

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.

Cook:

Place the skewered potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Air-fry for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Add Toppings:

Optionally, sprinkle with Parmesan, chopped parsley, and chili flakes before serving.

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This recipe became a fun family tradition at our house: my kids love helping with the spiral cuts, and the hands-on prep makes dinner more interactive.

Required Tools

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

Allergen Information

Contains milk if using Parmesan cheese. Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version. Confirm seasoning blends are allergen-safe.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 180 calories, 7 g total fat, 28 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein.

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Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

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Bring the wow factor to your snack table with these crispy tornado potatoes: they're sure to delight at any gathering!

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I get evenly sliced potato spirals?

Use a long skewer and a sharp knife, rotating the potato as you slice to maintain an even spiral.

→ Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet?

Yes, sweet potatoes work well and offer a unique flavor twist with the same spiraled presentation.

→ What spices give the best flavor?

Garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper create a savory, balanced seasoning for crispy potatoes.

→ How do I achieve extra crispiness?

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

→ Are tornado potatoes suitable for vegan diets?

Simply omit Parmesan cheese or substitute with dairy-free options for a fully vegan spiral potato snack.

→ Which dips pair best with tornado potatoes?

Aioli, ketchup, and sour cream are delicious choices that complement the seasoning and crispy texture.