Best Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s crispy, golden, and bursting with flavor, the Best Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes recipe will be your new kitchen favorite. This dish combines simplicity and irresistible taste by scoring potatoes to create perfect crisp edges and fluffy interiors, all roasted on a single sheet pan for minimal cleanup and maximum crunch. It’s an effortless way to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests without breaking a sweat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Fuss-Free: Prepared and cooked on just one sheet pan, saving time on both cooking and cleanup.
• Perfect Texture: Scoring the potatoes ensures crisp, crunchy edges with a soft, fluffy center.
• Versatile Flavors: Easy to customize with herbs, spices, or toppings to suit any craving or season.
• Great for Any Occasion: Works as a hearty side dish or a satisfying snack, perfect for family meals or gatherings.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that come together effortlessly, making it ideal for quick cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Best Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes recipe relies on simple, quality ingredients that each bring their own magic—crispness, golden-brown color, and savory flavor—to your dish.

• Medium-sized potatoes: Choose Yukon Gold or Russets for the best crisp and fluffy results.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that beautiful golden crust.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced for a subtle savory kick that infuses the potatoes.
• Fresh rosemary or thyme: Aromatic herbs that elevate the flavor profile while roasting.
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural potato flavor.
• Paprika or smoked paprika (optional): Adds a touch of warmth and vibrant color.

Variations for Best Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes

Feel free to make this recipe your own! It adapts beautifully to different tastes, dietary needs, or whatever herbs and spices you have on hand.

• Cheesy twist: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Spicy flair: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to give your potatoes a little heat.
• Herb alternative: Swap rosemary for fresh oregano or basil for a lighter, summer vibe.
• Vegan enhancement: Use avocado oil instead of olive oil and top with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Smoky sweet: Mix in a bit of smoked paprika with brown sugar for a sweet-smoky balance.

How to Make Best Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Score the Potatoes

Wash and dry your potatoes thoroughly. Place each potato on a cutting board and carefully make thin vertical slices along its length, stopping before you cut all the way through so the potato holds together like a fan.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

Place the scored potatoes on your sheet pan and drizzle generously with olive oil, making sure to get the oil between the slices for maximum crispiness. Sprinkle minced garlic, herbs, sea salt, black pepper, and paprika evenly over the potatoes.

Step 4: Roast Until Golden and Crispy

Put the sheet pan in your preheated oven and roast for about 40 to 50 minutes, or until the edges of the potato slices turn a gorgeous golden brown and crisp up beautifully.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes to set the crisp texture. They are now ready to enjoy as a standout side or snack!

Pro Tips for Making Best Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes

• Fresh potatoes matter: Choose firm, unblemished potatoes for even cooking and texture.
• Score carefully: Ensure cuts don’t go all the way through to keep the potato intact but allow oil to seep inside.
• Use enough oil: Don’t skimp on olive oil to get those crispy, golden edges.
• Turn halfway: Rotate the sheet pan once during roasting for evenly crisped potatoes.
• Don’t overcrowd: Give each potato space on the pan to ensure heat circulates properly.

How to Serve Best Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, chives, or a light dusting of Parmesan cheese to add freshness and an extra layer of flavor that complements the crispy potatoes perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside juicy grilled chicken, seared steak, or roasted vegetables for a hearty, balanced meal that highlights the potatoes’ crispy texture and herbaceous notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Fan the potatoes on a rustic wooden board or arrange them in a layered stack for an eye-catching platter. Drizzle with garlic aioli or your favorite dipping sauce for an inviting appetizer option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover scored potatoes in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll stay flavorful and easy to reheat for a quick snack or side.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the roasted scored potatoes on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They keep well for up to 2 months but are best reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.

Reheating

To bring back their crisp texture, reheat leftover potatoes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes instead of the microwave. This prevents sogginess and keeps every bite delicious.

FAQs

Can I use any type of potato for this recipe?

Yes, but Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are preferred because they balance crisp edges and fluffy interiors well when roasted in this scoring method.

Is scoring necessary for crispiness?

Absolutely—the thin cuts increase surface area, allowing the oil and heat to create those crunchy edges without drying the center.

What can I substitute for fresh herbs?

Dried rosemary or thyme work in a pinch, but use less since dried herbs are more potent; you can always add fresh herbs after roasting for brightness.

Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes! Just use plant-based oils like avocado oil and skip any dairy toppings or replace them with vegan alternatives like nutritional yeast.

How do I ensure potatoes cook evenly?

Make sure potatoes are similar in size and slice thickness, avoid overcrowding, and rotate the pan halfway through cooking for consistent roasting.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about the Best Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes that keeps you coming back for more—crispy, crunchy, and flavorful with so little effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this recipe will quickly become a reliable go-to. Grab some potatoes and your favorite herbs, and give this deliciously simple dish a try today—you won’t regret it!

Related Posts

• Sheet-Pan Thanksgiving Dinner with Turkey and Veggies
• Roasted Cauliflower with Garlic Herb Gravy
• Sausage Stuffing

Print