There’s something incredibly comforting about a tray of crispy roasted potatoes fresh from the oven. Golden brown on the outside, fluffy and tender on the inside, potatoes are one of those timeless side dishes that never go out of style. But if you’re looking for a way to make ordinary potatoes feel extra special without adding complicated steps, these Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes are exactly what you need.
Also known as hasselback potatoes, scored potatoes are sliced thinly across the top without cutting all the way through. As they roast, the slices fan out beautifully, creating irresistibly crispy edges while the inside stays soft and buttery. The result is a potato dish that looks elegant enough for a holiday dinner yet simple enough for a weeknight meal.
What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to prepare. With only a handful of pantry ingredients, minimal prep work, and one sheet pan, you can create a side dish packed with flavor and texture. Garlic, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme combine to create a savory aroma that fills your kitchen while the potatoes roast to perfection.
These scored potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, roasted vegetables, burgers, or even as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, entertaining guests, or simply craving crispy potatoes, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.
What Are Scored Potatoes?
Scored potatoes, often referred to as hasselback potatoes, originated in Sweden and quickly became popular around the world. The name comes from the Hasselbacken restaurant in Stockholm, where the dish was first introduced.
The technique involves slicing thin cuts across the potato while leaving the bottom intact. During roasting, the slices spread apart slightly, allowing heat and seasoning to reach every layer of the potato. This creates the perfect balance between crispy roasted edges and soft potato centers.
One of the reasons scored potatoes are so popular is their versatility. You can season them with herbs, cheese, garlic, bacon, butter, or spices depending on your taste preferences. They’re visually impressive while still being incredibly easy to make.
This sheet pan version keeps things simple and approachable for home cooks of every skill level.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless potato recipes out there, but this one stands out for several reasons:
Crispy and Flavorful
The thin slices create crispy edges that roast beautifully in the oven while soaking up all the delicious seasoning.
Easy to Prepare
Despite their fancy appearance, scored potatoes require very little effort and only a few simple ingredients.
Budget-Friendly
Potatoes are affordable, filling, and easy to find year-round.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Serve them at weeknight dinners, holiday meals, barbecues, or game nights.
Customizable
You can easily switch up the flavors with cheese, spices, herbs, or toppings.
Ingredients for Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes
To make this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Notes
Russet Potatoes
Russet potatoes work best because they become wonderfully crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy inside. Yukon Gold potatoes are another excellent option if you prefer a creamier texture.
Olive Oil
Olive oil helps the potatoes crisp up beautifully while adding richness and flavor.
Garlic
Fresh minced garlic gives the potatoes a delicious savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the herbs.
Herbs
Rosemary and thyme add earthy, aromatic notes that make these potatoes taste restaurant-quality.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Baking sheet or sheet pan
- Small mixing bowl
- Pastry brush or spoon
How to Make Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
A hot oven is essential for achieving crispy edges and evenly roasted potatoes.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel.
Place one potato on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully make thin slices across the potato, about 1/8-inch apart, without cutting all the way through. Leave about 1/4 inch intact at the bottom so the potato stays connected.
Repeat with all the potatoes.
Helpful Tip
Place chopsticks or wooden spoons on either side of the potato while slicing. This prevents the knife from cutting completely through the potato.
Step 3: Make the Seasoning Mixture
In a small bowl, combine:
- Olive oil
- Minced garlic
- Dried rosemary
- Dried thyme
- Salt
- Black pepper
Mix well until combined.
Step 4: Season the Potatoes
Place the scored potatoes on the prepared sheet pan.
Using a spoon or pastry brush, generously coat each potato with the seasoned oil mixture. Make sure some of the mixture gets between the slices for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Bake Until Crispy
Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes.
As the potatoes roast, the slices will begin to fan out and turn beautifully golden brown.
The potatoes are done when:
- The edges are crispy
- The centers are fork-tender
- The tops are golden and slightly crunchy
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the potatoes from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Scored Potatoes
Slice Evenly
Thin, evenly spaced cuts ensure the potatoes cook consistently.
Don’t Skip the Oil
Oil is essential for creating crispy edges and preventing dryness.
Season Between the Slices
Brushing seasoning inside the cuts adds flavor throughout the potato.
Use a Hot Oven
High heat helps create the crispy texture that makes hasselback potatoes so delicious.
Let Them Rest
Allowing the potatoes to cool slightly before serving helps the flavors settle and the texture improve.
Delicious Variations
One of the best things about scored potatoes is how easy they are to customize.
Cheesy Scored Potatoes
Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking for a melty, cheesy finish.
Spicy Potatoes
Sprinkle cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes on top before roasting for extra heat.
Garlic Butter Version
Replace olive oil with melted butter for an even richer flavor.
Bacon Lovers’ Potatoes
Top the finished potatoes with crispy bacon bits and green onions.
Herb Lovers’ Version
Experiment with oregano, basil, parsley, or dill for different flavor profiles.
Loaded Potatoes
Serve with sour cream, cheese, bacon, and chives for a loaded baked potato experience.
What to Serve with Scored Potatoes
These crispy potatoes pair beautifully with many main dishes.
Great Pairings Include:
- Grilled chicken
- Steak
- Roast beef
- Salmon
- Burgers
- BBQ ribs
- Roasted vegetables
They also make a fantastic appetizer or party snack with dipping sauces like ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers, scored potatoes store surprisingly well.
Refrigerating
- Allow the potatoes to cool completely.
- Place them in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for 3–5 days.
Reheating Instructions
To bring back their crispy texture:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place potatoes on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the potatoes soft instead of crispy.
Freezing Instructions
You can also freeze scored potatoes for longer storage.
How to Freeze
- Let the potatoes cool completely.
- Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 2–3 months.
Reheating from Frozen
Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C), adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different potatoes?
Yes. Yukon Gold potatoes work wonderfully and have a creamier texture.
Why are my potatoes not crispy?
Make sure the oven is fully preheated and avoid overcrowding the sheet pan.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes. You can partially bake them ahead and finish roasting before serving.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No. Leaving the skin on adds texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Crispy, golden edges paired with tender, fluffy centers make every bite incredibly satisfying. With their beautiful presentation and rich flavor, they’re the perfect side dish for almost any meal.
Whether you keep them simple with garlic and herbs or load them up with cheese and bacon, these potatoes are endlessly customizable and always delicious. Best of all, they require very little effort, making them ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings alike.
Once you try these crispy scored potatoes, they’re sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection.