Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes are the perfect side dish to accompany any meal. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home. These potatoes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of herb-infused goodness.
Scored potatoes, similar to hasselback potatoes, involve making thin, shallow cuts across the surface without slicing all the way through. This technique allows the heat and seasoning to penetrate deeper, resulting in an evenly flavored, crispy-edged, and soft-centered delight. Unlike whole hasselback potatoes, these sheet pan scored potatoes cook faster and are easier to prepare, making them a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
In this recipe, we’ll walk you through how to make the best scored potatoes, from selecting the right potatoes to achieving the perfect crispy texture. Plus, we’ll provide tips, variations, and serving suggestions to help you customize this dish to your taste.
What Are Scored Potatoes?
Scored potatoes, sometimes called accordion potatoes, are a visually appealing and delicious way to prepare potatoes. The technique of scoring involves making shallow, parallel cuts on the surface of the potato, which increases the surface area for seasoning and crispiness. When baked, these cuts help the potatoes fan out slightly, allowing them to absorb more flavors and develop a delightful crunch.
This method originated from the Swedish Hasselback potatoes, named after the Hasselbacken Restaurant in Stockholm where they were first introduced. While hasselback potatoes are typically made with whole potatoes, scored potatoes on a sheet pan are an easier variation, offering the same delicious flavor with less prep and cooking time.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
To make these delicious and crispy sheet pan scored potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Scored Potatoes
- 4 medium-sized russet potatoes – Russet potatoes are ideal because they have a high starch content, which helps achieve a crispy texture on the outside and a fluffy interior.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Olive oil helps create a golden, crispy crust while adding a subtle depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic enhances the savory taste and pairs well with the crispy potato texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary – This aromatic herb brings an earthy and slightly pine-like flavor to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Thyme adds warmth and complements the rosemary beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – These essential seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the potatoes.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the finished dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly. Since we’ll be baking them with the skins on, it’s important to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts across the surface of each potato. The cuts should be about ¼ inch apart, ensuring they don’t go all the way through. This will allow the potatoes to fan out slightly during baking.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush or rub the mixture generously over the potatoes, making sure to work the seasoning into the scored cuts. This helps the flavors penetrate deeper.
Step 4: Bake the Potatoes
- Place the potatoes cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced for proper air circulation.
- Roast for 40-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are crispy on the edges and fork-tender inside.
- If you want an extra crispy texture, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 10 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Serve hot and enjoy these delicious, crispy scored potatoes!
Serving Suggestions
These sheet pan scored potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:
✔ As a Side Dish – Serve alongside grilled steak, roasted chicken, or baked fish.
✔ With Dipping Sauces – Pair with garlic aioli, sour cream, or spicy mayo.
✔ Topped with Cheese – Sprinkle with shredded cheddar or parmesan in the last 10 minutes of baking.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Scored Potatoes
✔ Choose the Right Potatoes – Russet potatoes work best for a crispy texture, but Yukon Gold potatoes also work well for a creamier result.
✔ Make Uniform Cuts – Keeping the slices evenly spaced helps the potatoes cook uniformly.
✔ Don’t Skimp on the Oil – Brushing the oil mixture into the cuts ensures maximum flavor.
✔ Bake at High Heat – A higher temperature helps the potatoes develop a crispier crust.
✔ Try Flavored Butter – Melted butter mixed with garlic and herbs can be drizzled over the potatoes before serving for extra richness.
Substitutions & Variations
Looking to switch things up? Try these variations:
1. Healthier Version
- Swap olive oil for avocado oil for a lighter, heart-healthy option.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of russet for added nutrients.
2. Extra Flavor Boost
- Add paprika or smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
- Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
- Brush with melted butter before serving for a richer taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes! While russet potatoes provide the crispiest texture, Yukon Gold and sweet potatoes also work well.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store the leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
3. Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes! You can par-bake the potatoes for 25 minutes, then finish roasting before serving.
4. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Use double the amount of fresh herbs, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy to Make – Minimal ingredients and simple steps.
✔ Crispy & Flavorful – The perfect blend of texture and taste.
✔ Versatile – Works as a side dish, snack, or even a main dish.
Conclusion
These Best Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes are a simple yet delicious way to elevate any meal. With crispy edges, a tender interior, and a perfect balance of herbs and seasoning, they’re bound to become a new favorite in your household. Whether you’re preparing them for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, they’re guaranteed to impress.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a flavor-packed, crispy potato dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to be loved by all!