Scored Potatoes Made Easy on a Sheet Pan

Discover a simple and delicious way to elevate your potato game with Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes! This dish combines crispy edges and a fluffy interior, making it the perfect side for any meal or a standalone snack. With minimal prep and a handful of ingredients, this recipe is ideal for weeknights or special occasions.

What Are Scored Potatoes?

Scored potatoes, inspired by the Swedish Hasselback potatoes, feature thin cuts across their surface without slicing all the way through. These cuts allow the potatoes to fan out slightly during baking, creating a crisp texture while maintaining a tender center. The design also soaks up seasonings beautifully, making every bite flavorful.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible sheet pan scored potatoes:

• 4 medium-sized Russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Wash and scrub the Russet potatoes thoroughly. Pat them dry with a towel.
3. Place a potato on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice thin, even cuts across the top of the potato, about ⅛ inch apart. Be careful not to cut all the way through—leave about ¼ inch intact at the bottom. (Tip: Place chopsticks or wooden spoons on either side of the potato to prevent cutting too deep.)

2. Season the Potatoes

1. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
2. Brush the seasoned olive oil mixture generously over the potatoes, making sure to get into the cuts. This ensures maximum flavor absorption during baking.

3. Bake to Perfection

1. Place the scored potatoes on the prepared sheet pan.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy, and the centers are soft. If needed, brush a little extra olive oil halfway through the baking process to enhance crispiness.

4. Serve and Garnish

1. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 2-3 minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
3. Serve immediately as a side dish with your favorite main course or enjoy as a snack with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of melted cheese.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Potato: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because of their starchy, fluffy interior. Yukon Golds can also work for a creamier texture.
• Even Cuts: Ensure your cuts are even for uniform cooking and a visually pleasing result.
• Extra Crispy Edges: For ultra-crispy edges, broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
• Make It Cheesy: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese over the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a complete meal.
• Serve as an appetizer with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo.
• Add toppings like crumbled bacon, chives, or shredded cheese for loaded scored potatoes.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~180
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Minimal ingredients and simple techniques make this recipe accessible for any skill level.
• Customizable: Switch up the seasonings or add toppings to suit your preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served as a side dish or snack, these scored potatoes are always a hit.