- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and dry the potatoes. Cut them in half lengthwise.
- Using a sharp knife, score the cut side of each potato in a crisscross pattern, making shallow cuts about ¼ inch deep. This helps the seasoning soak in and creates extra crispiness.
Step 2: Season & Arrange on Sheet Pan
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Brush or drizzle the mixture generously over the scored sides of the potatoes.
- Arrange the potatoes cut-side down on a greased or parchment-lined sheet pan.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the bottoms are crispy and golden brown.
Step 3: Flip & Finish
- Flip the potatoes cut-side up, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using), and bake for another 5 minutes to crisp up the tops.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Serving: Best served hot with sour cream, garlic aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Variants & Customizations
- Spicy Version: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a heat kick.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top before the final 5 minutes of baking.
- Herb-Roasted: Swap Italian seasoning for fresh rosemary or thyme for an earthy flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use vegan butter or extra olive oil instead of dairy butter.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes! Yukon Gold potatoes create a creamier texture, while Russet potatoes become extra crispy.
2. Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Nope! The skin helps create a crispy texture and holds in moisture for a soft inside.
3. Why do I need to score the potatoes?
Scoring allows the butter and seasonings to penetrate the potatoes, creating extra crispiness and flavor.
4. Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. How do I make them even crispier?
For extra crispiness, brush with more butter or oil halfway through baking and increase the oven temp to 425°F (220°C) for the last 5 minutes.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes are a crispy, buttery, and foolproof side dish that elevates any meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have golden, flavorful potatoes that everyone will love.
