These Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes are a game-changer for your side dish repertoire. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, they make for a delicious and visually impressive addition to any meal. Featuring minimal ingredients and simple prep, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or anytime you crave a flavorful potato dish that’s easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Not only do these Scored Potatoes look stunning, but they’re packed with flavor, too. Scoring the potatoes in a crosshatch pattern allows the garlic-infused olive oil or melted butter to penetrate, creating a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. With the addition of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, this dish elevates a simple potato into something extraordinary. It’s an effortless way to impress guests or treat yourself to a hearty, delicious side. Best Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes

Ingredients

4 medium Yukon gold or russet potatoes
3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika (optional)
Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and dry the potatoes. Slice each potato in half lengthwise. Place each half flat-side down on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, lightly score the tops in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut all the way through.

3. Season the Potatoes

In a small bowl, mix together olive oil (or melted butter), garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Brush the mixture generously over the scored tops of the potatoes.

4. Bake the Potatoes

Arrange the potatoes cut-side down on the sheet pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, then flip them scored-side up and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crispy.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once baked, sprinkle with fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme, if desired. Serve hot as a side dish with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Pro Tip: Scoring the potatoes not only makes them look beautiful but also helps the flavors seep in and boosts crispiness!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
Total Time: 50-60 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 180 kcal per serving

Variations

Cheesy version: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan) over the scored potatoes during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
Spicy version: Sprinkle some chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper with the seasoning for an added kick.
Vegan version: Use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute to keep the recipe vegan-friendly.
Herb variations: Mix up the herbs! Fresh thyme, sage, or even chives would all work well with this dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover scored potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the potatoes in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to restore some of the crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them but they may lose their crisp texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potatoes up to the point of scoring and seasoning them. Store them in the refrigerator and bake them just before serving for a warm, fresh dish.

2. Can I use sweet potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be aware that they may need a slightly shorter baking time depending on their size.

3. What if I don’t have fresh thyme or rosemary?

If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs instead. About 1/3 of the amount listed for fresh herbs should suffice. You can also omit them if you prefer a simpler flavor.

4. Can I prepare these potatoes with other seasonings?

Yes, you can get creative with seasonings. Try garlic powder, onion powder, or a bit of lemon zest for a different twist on the classic flavor.

5. Can I make these potatoes in an air fryer?

Yes, you can! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F, place the potatoes in a single layer, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden.

6. How can I make sure the potatoes cook evenly?

Make sure you slice the potatoes evenly and score them in a consistent pattern so they cook evenly. Also, spacing them out on the sheet pan ensures they don’t overcrowd and get soggy.

7. How do I get the perfect crispy edges?

Make sure to score the potatoes deeply enough so the olive oil or butter mixture gets inside and crisps up the edges. Baking the potatoes with the cut side down initially helps create a great base texture.

8. How do I store leftover scored potatoes?

Leftover scored potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.

9. Can I make this recipe with other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes like red potatoes, fingerlings, or even small new potatoes. Adjust the baking time as needed depending on their size.

10. Can I make this recipe without scoring the potatoes?

You can! While scoring helps to enhance the flavor and texture, you can simply slice the potatoes into wedges or halves if you prefer a simpler preparation.

Conclusion

These Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes are a versatile, easy-to-make side dish that’s sure to impress. With their crispy exterior, tender interior, and savory seasoning, they make the perfect accompaniment to almost any main course. Whether you’re serving them with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or enjoying them on their own, these potatoes are sure to be a hit at your next meal.