BEST EASY SHEET PAN SCORED POTATOES RECIPE

There’s something irresistibly comforting about the smell of potatoes roasting away in the oven, their edges crisping up while the centers stay pillowy soft. This sheet pan scored potato recipe is all about simplicity meeting flavor, where a few clever knife cuts transform humble spuds into golden, crunchy-topped wonders. With a drizzle of oil, a sprinkle of seasoning, and the magic of oven heat, you’re left with potatoes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Trust me, you’re going to love this one.

Behind the Recipe

I can still remember the first time I saw scored potatoes come out of the oven — golden brown with their little ridges fanned open like a blooming flower. It reminded me of those rustic Sunday meals when a simple potato was always the star of the table. This recipe takes that nostalgic comfort food and makes it sheet-pan easy, so you can feed the whole family without fuss.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Scored potatoes are often thought of as a close cousin to the Swedish Hasselback potato. While Hasselbacks are thinly sliced across the top, scored potatoes are crisscrossed in a grid-like pattern. This simple cut allows the oil and seasonings to seep deep inside, creating layers of crispy edges and tender bites. Variations of this technique have been enjoyed across Europe, where potatoes are truly a beloved staple.

Why You’ll Love BEST EASY SHEET PAN SCORED POTATOES RECIPE

Versatile: These potatoes pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even as the star of a vegetarian spread.

Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients like potatoes, oil, and spices keep this dish easy on the wallet.

Quick and Easy: With just a few cuts and a drizzle of oil, you’ll have them roasting away in no time.

Customizable: Change up the herbs and seasonings depending on your mood, from garlic and rosemary to smoky paprika.

Crowd-Pleasing: Their striking scored look makes them a showstopper, and everyone loves crispy potatoes.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat them in the oven or air fryer and they’ll crisp back up beautifully.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To get potatoes that are golden and crisp on the outside yet creamy inside, here are a few secrets:

1. Choose potatoes of similar size so they cook evenly.
2. Make clean, shallow cuts without slicing all the way through to keep them intact.
3. Brush oil generously into the scored cuts for maximum crispiness.
4. Roast on high heat so the edges caramelize properly.
5. Finish with fresh herbs right before serving for a pop of brightness.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You won’t need much to make this recipe, just a few basics:

• Sharp Knife: Essential for making clean, even crisscross cuts.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface to safely score your potatoes.
• Sheet Pan: Gives the potatoes space to crisp without steaming.
• Pastry Brush or Spoon: To help get the oil deep into the scored cuts.
• Tongs or Spatula: For flipping or moving potatoes easily.

Ingredients in BEST EASY SHEET PAN SCORED POTATOES RECIPE

Every ingredient here plays a part in creating the perfect balance of crisp, tender, and flavorful:

1. Yukon Gold Potatoes: 6 medium give the best creamy center with a slightly sweet flavor.
2. Olive Oil: 4 tablespoons coats the potatoes and helps them crisp beautifully.
3. Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon adds a warm, savory depth.
4. Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon lends a subtle smoky flavor and vibrant color.
5. Salt: 1 teaspoon enhances all the natural potato goodness.
6. Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon gives a gentle kick of spice.
7. Fresh Rosemary: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped brings a fragrant, earthy touch.
8. Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped for a fresh garnish at the end.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes you might not have everything on hand, but don’t worry:

• Yukon Gold Potatoes: Use russet or red potatoes.
• Olive Oil: Try avocado oil or melted butter.
• Smoked Paprika: Sweet paprika or chili powder for a twist.
• Fresh Rosemary: Swap for thyme or oregano.

Ingredient Spotlight

Yukon Gold Potatoes: Known for their naturally buttery flavor and golden flesh, they strike the perfect balance between creamy and firm, making them ideal for roasting.

Smoked Paprika: This spice adds both color and a subtle smokiness that enhances the potato’s earthy flavor without overpowering it.

Instructions for Making BEST EASY SHEET PAN SCORED POTATOES RECIPE

Now comes the fun part — bringing everything together.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Spread a thin layer of oil on the parchment to prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Dish: Score each potato in a crisscross pattern about ¼ inch deep. Brush the seasoned oil generously into the cuts and all over the potato surface.
5. Cook to Perfection: Arrange the potatoes cut-side up on the sheet pan. Roast for 40–45 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the ridges.
6. Finishing Touches: Sprinkle fresh rosemary halfway through baking, and garnish with parsley just before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Plate them hot, crisp, and fragrant. A little extra sprinkle of salt makes them irresistible.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

What makes these potatoes shine is the contrast. The scored ridges catch oil and spices, crisping up into golden, crunchy bits, while the insides stay tender and creamy. The smoky paprika and garlic seep into the grooves, giving each bite layers of flavor that are earthy, savory, and satisfying.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Roast on the middle rack for even browning.
• Don’t overcrowd the sheet pan or the potatoes will steam instead of crisp.
• Use a pastry brush to really work the oil into the cuts for maximum flavor.

What to Avoid

• Cutting too deep, which may cause potatoes to fall apart.
• Using too little oil, leaving potatoes dry instead of crisp.
• Baking at too low a temperature, which won’t allow the edges to caramelize.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 180

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can score and season the potatoes up to a day in advance, keeping them covered in the fridge until ready to roast. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a hot oven or air fryer to bring back their crispy magic. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture will change.

How to Serve BEST EASY SHEET PAN SCORED POTATOES RECIPE

Serve them as a stunning side dish with roasted chicken, steak, or grilled vegetables. They also pair beautifully with a dollop of sour cream, a drizzle of garlic aioli, or even as part of a brunch spread alongside eggs.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftover scored potatoes can be diced and turned into breakfast hash, mashed slightly and pan-fried into crispy potato cakes, or added to a salad for a hearty touch.

Additional Tips

For extra richness, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes in the last 10 minutes of roasting. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors beautifully.

Make It a Showstopper

Arrange the potatoes neatly on a platter, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and serve them right on the sheet pan for a rustic, family-style presentation that wows at the table.

Variations to Try

1. Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
2. Use Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist.
3. Drizzle with honey and thyme for a sweet-savory version.
4. Top with shredded cheddar and chives for a cheesy comfort version.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make these with sweet potatoes?

Yes, though they will cook slightly faster and caramelize more due to natural sugars.

Q2: Do I need to peel the potatoes?

No, the skin helps them hold shape and adds crispiness.

Q3: Can I use an air fryer instead of an oven?

Absolutely, just reduce cooking time to about 25–30 minutes.

Q4: What’s the best oil to use?

Olive oil is classic, but avocado oil is also excellent for high-heat roasting.

Q5: Can I prepare them the night before?

Yes, score and season them ahead, then refrigerate until ready to roast.

Q6: Why didn’t mine get crispy?

They may have been overcrowded on the pan or not roasted at a high enough temperature.

Q7: How do I know when they’re done?

When the ridges are golden and the centers pierce easily with a fork.

Q8: Can I add cheese?

Yes, sprinkle grated Parmesan in the last few minutes of roasting for extra flavor.

Q9: Can I freeze them after baking?

Not recommended, as freezing changes the texture.

Q10: Are these gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

These sheet pan scored potatoes are proof that a simple ingredient can be transformed into something special with just a few clever cuts and the right seasonings. Crispy, golden, and fragrant, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite — and once you try them, you’ll be making them again and again.

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