Best Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes
These Best Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes are golden and crispy on the outside with tender, fluffy centers. Featuring scored tops that soak in olive oil, herbs, and garlic, they are full of flavor and perfect as a versatile side dish for any meal. Simple to prepare and baked on a single sheet pan, this recipe delivers maximum deliciousness with minimal cleanup.
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
- Total Time: 45-55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 4 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2–3 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon paprika or chili flakes (for spiciness)
- 2–3 whole garlic cloves (for roasting alongside potatoes)
- Grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese (for cheesy variation)
- Nutritional yeast (for vegan cheesy flavor)
- Preheat and Prepare Potatoes: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, carefully score the tops of each potato with shallow, cross-hatching cuts without slicing all the way through. This allows the oil and herbs to penetrate deeply during roasting.
- Season Generously: Place the scored potatoes on a large sheet pan. Drizzle generously with olive oil, ensuring the oil seeps into the scored edges. Toss gently to coat each potato evenly. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and fresh herbs. For more intense garlic flavor, tuck whole garlic cloves between the potatoes.
- Roast Until Crispy and Golden: Roast the potatoes in the oven for 35 to 45 minutes, turning once halfway through to ensure even browning. The potatoes should be deeply golden and crispy on the edges, with soft and fluffy centers when pierced with a fork.
- Optional Finishing Touches: After roasting, add fresh herb sprigs for garnish or sprinkle with additional sea salt to enhance texture. Serve immediately for the crispiest experience.
Notes
- Choose Yukon Gold potatoes for the best balance of creamy texture and crisp edges.
- Score potatoes shallowly to create optimal surface area without cutting them apart.
- Use enough olive oil to ensure crispy edges and golden color.
- Arrange potatoes in a single layer to avoid sogginess from steam.
- Flip potatoes halfway through roasting for even caramelization.
- Add fresh herbs near the end or after roasting to prevent burning.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, separating layers with parchment paper if stacking.
- Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispness; avoid microwave reheating.
- Freezing is not recommended as texture can degrade upon thawing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: scored potatoes, sheet pan potatoes, crispy potatoes, easy side dish, roasted potatoes, gluten free side dish