Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes

Featured in: Family Comfort Plates

Spiral potatoes are threaded onto skewers, seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then air-fried for crisp exterior and tender interior. Turn halfway to ensure even browning and finish with Parmesan, parsley, or a kick of chili flakes. Ideal as a snack or playful side dish, with gluten-free and vegetarian options. Dip in aioli, ketchup, or sour cream for extra flavor. Soaking potatoes before air-frying delivers added crunch. Sweet potatoes can be substituted for the classic russet variety.

Updated on Thu, 06 Nov 2025 09:55:00 GMT
Crispy air-fryer tornado potatoes seasoned with garlic and paprika on skewers.  Pin it
Crispy air-fryer tornado potatoes seasoned with garlic and paprika on skewers. | weeknightwhisk.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 fair and was amazed how easy and delicious they are to make at home with my air fryer. These spirals are now our go-to for family movie nights or game days.

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Ingredients

  • Potatoes: 4 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed
  • Seasoning: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1⁄2 tsp salt, 1⁄2 tsp black pepper
  • Optional Toppings: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (omit for vegan), 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1⁄2 tsp chili flakes (optional)

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Instructions

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Skewer the potatoes:
Insert a long wooden or metal skewer lengthwise through the center of each potato.
Slice spirals:
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. Stretch the potato along the skewer for even spacing.
Make seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Season spirals:
Brush or rub the seasoning mixture evenly over each spiraled potato, getting between the layers.
Preheat air fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Arrange in basket:
Place the skewered potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch.
Air-fry:
Air-fry for 20โ€“25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Add toppings:
Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan, fresh parsley, and chili flakes before serving.
Deliciously twisted air-fryer tornado potatoes, perfect for fun snacking at home.  Pin it
Deliciously twisted air-fryer tornado potatoes, perfect for fun snacking at home. | weeknightwhisk.com

My kids love turning the potatoes on their skewers and watching the crispiness develop. It's always a fun family cooking session, and everyone picks their favorite dip.

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Required Tools

For this recipe you'll need an air fryer, long wooden or metal skewers, a sharp knife, a small bowl, and a pastry brush for easy seasoning.

Allergen Information

Contains milk if you use Parmesan cheese. Completely gluten-free, but always check seasoning blends for hidden allergens. Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.

Nutritional Information

Each serving has about 180 calories, 7 g total fat, 28 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein, making these an ideal light snack.

Golden air-fryer tornado potatoes garnished with parsley, ideal for entertaining guests. Pin it
Golden air-fryer tornado potatoes garnished with parsley, ideal for entertaining guests. | weeknightwhisk.com
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Air-fryer tornado potatoes will quickly become your favorite homemade snack. They're perfect for parties, family fun, or any time you want a creative potato treat.

Common Questions

โ†’ How do I get potatoes into a tornado shape?

Carefully slice the potato in a spiral motion along the skewer, stretching it for even coils.

โ†’ Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet?

Yes, sweet potatoes work well and give a unique flavor and color to the finished dish.

โ†’ How do I make the potatoes crispier?

Soaking sliced potatoes in cold water before air-frying helps achieve extra crispiness.

โ†’ Are these tornado potatoes gluten-free?

Yes, just check seasoning blends for hidden gluten or allergens. Recipe is naturally gluten-free.

โ†’ What dips pair well with air-fried spiral potatoes?

Aioli, ketchup, and sour cream are excellent choices for dipping these crispy spirals.

โ†’ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

It's vegetarian. For vegan, omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

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Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes

Seasoned spiral potatoes air-fried to crispy golden perfection. Fun, healthier snack or side for any occasion.

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
25 min
Time Needed
40 min
Created by Ella Thompson


Skill Level Medium

Cuisine American

Makes 4 Portions

Dietary Info Meat-Free, No Gluten

What You'll Need

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 (omit for vegan)
02 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
03 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Step-by-Step

Step 01

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

Step 02

Spiral Cutting Technique: Holding the skewer, slice the potato in a spiral motion using a sharp knife, rotating and cutting from one end to the other. Gently stretch the potato along the skewer, spacing the spirals evenly.

Step 03

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

Step 04

Season Spirals: Brush or rub the seasoning mixture thoroughly over each potato, ensuring coverage between the spiraled layers.

Step 05

Preheat Air Fryer: Set air fryer to 375ยฐF and heat for 3 minutes.

Step 06

Arrange Potatoes: Place skewered potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch.

Step 07

Air-Fry: Cook at 375ยฐF for 20 to 25 minutes, turning potatoes halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 08

Finish with Toppings: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and chili flakes prior to serving, if desired.

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Tools Required

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

Allergy Notice

Go through every ingredient to identify allergens and talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns.
  • Contains milk if Parmesan cheese is used.
  • Gluten-free, but confirm seasoning blends for hidden gluten or additives.
  • Use dairy-free cheese to accommodate vegan dietary preferences.

Nutrition Information (per portion)

Nutrition details are for general reference and shouldn't replace advice from your doctor.
  • Caloric Content: 180
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Proteins: 3 g

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