Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes

Featured in: Noonshine Plates

Enjoy spiral-cut potatoes air-fried until crispy and golden brown, served on skewers for a fun and shareable treat. Seasoned with garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper, these are brushed with olive oil before cooking. Optional toppings like Parmesan, fresh parsley, and chili flakes add extra flavor and dimension. Perfectly crunchy on the outside and tender within, they're a gluten-free vegetarian option that's both healthier and visually appealing for gatherings or casual snacking. Tips for extra crispiness and serving suggestions offer versatility, while the air fryer keeps preparation quick and easy.

Updated on Wed, 05 Nov 2025 09:35:00 GMT
Crispy air-fryer tornado potatoes garnished with parsley and spices for a delightful snack.  Save It
Crispy air-fryer tornado potatoes garnished with parsley and spices for a delightful snack. | sunnyspoonful.com

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

I made these air-fryer tornado potatoes for a family game night, and they were a hit with kids and adults alike.

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

Instructions

Skewer the potatoes:
Insert a long wooden or metal skewer lengthwise through the center of each potato.
Create spirals:
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 potatoes:
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.
Arrange and air-fry:
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.
Add toppings and serve:
Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan, fresh parsley, and chili flakes before serving.
Seasoned spiral potatoes on skewers, air-fried until golden, perfect for dipping.  Save It
Seasoned spiral potatoes on skewers, air-fried until golden, perfect for dipping. | sunnyspoonful.com

These tornado potatoes became a favorite for our outdoor grilling parties, especially when served with a variety of dips.

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. Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 180, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 28 g, Protein: 3 g (per serving)

Golden-brown air-fryer tornado potatoes sprinkled with Parmesan, a fun, tasty treat. Save It
Golden-brown air-fryer tornado potatoes sprinkled with Parmesan, a fun, tasty treat. | sunnyspoonful.com

Enjoy these crispy potato spirals hot from the air fryer. They pair perfectly with your favorite dips for any occasion.

Recipe FAQs

How are tornado potatoes spiral cut?

Carefully insert a skewer through the potato and slice in a spiral motion using a sharp knife, stretching and separating the sections for even cooking.

What seasoning works best for air-fried potatoes?

Olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper build a well-rounded flavor base. Customize with Parmesan, parsley, or chili flakes if desired.

How do you achieve extra crispy potatoes?

Soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before air-frying, then dry thoroughly to maximize crispness.

Which sides or dips pair well?

Serve alongside aioli, ketchup, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauces for a complete snack experience.

Is this suitable for gluten-free or vegan diets?

Yes, these potatoes are naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. Use dairy-free cheese to make them vegan-friendly.

Can sweet potatoes be used instead?

Absolutely! Substitute russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a unique, sweeter flavor and vibrant color.

Air-Fryer Tornado Potatoes

Golden spiral potatoes air-fried on skewers and seasoned, ideal as a satisfying snack or side dish.

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
25 mins
Total Duration
40 mins
Authored by Lana Bright

Recipe Type Noonshine Plates

Skill Level Medium

Cuisine Style American

Recipe Yield 4 Serving Size

Diet Preferences Vegetarian-Friendly, Free From Gluten

What You'll Need

Vegetable Base

01 4 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed

Seasonings

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 Garnishes

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

Directions

Step 01

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

Step 02

Spiral Cut Potatoes: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut each potato in a spiral motion while rotating. Stretch the sliced potato along the skewer to ensure even spacing between spirals.

Step 03

Mix Seasonings: Combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.

Step 04

Season Potatoes: Brush or rub the seasoning mixture thoroughly over each spiraled potato, ensuring coating between all layers.

Step 05

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

Step 06

Cook Potatoes: Arrange the skewered potatoes in the air fryer basket without touching. Air-fry at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.

Step 07

Add Garnishes and Serve: If desired, sprinkle hot potatoes with Parmesan cheese, parsley, and chili flakes just before serving.

Tools You'll Need

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

Allergy Information

Review each ingredient to identify potential allergens, and consult a healthcare professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains milk if Parmesan cheese is used; always confirm seasoning blends are gluten-free and free from hidden allergens.

Nutrition Details (Per Serving)

This nutritional data is for reference only and isn't a substitute for medical advice.
  • Caloric Value: 180
  • Fats: 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 28 grams
  • Proteins: 3 grams