🥔 Simple Sheet Pan Scored Potatoes

Crispy edges • Soft centers • 5 minutes prep

⭐ Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

• 4 medium potatoes (Yukon gold or russet work best)

• 2–3 tbsp olive oil (or melted vegan butter)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• ½–1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Fresh herbs for serving (parsley, chives, rosemary)

🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat the oven

Preheat to 425°F (220°C).
For crispier potatoes, place the empty sheet pan inside while it heats.

2. Prepare the potatoes

• Wash the potatoes well (no need to peel).

• Slice each potato in half lengthwise.

• Place each half cut-side up.

• Using a sharp knife, score the surface:

  • Make diagonal cuts about ⅛–¼ inch deep.

  • Rotate and make diagonal cuts in the opposite direction.

  • You should see a crosshatch pattern.

3. Season

Place potatoes on the sheet pan cut-side up.
Drizzle with olive oil and rub into the scored surface.

Sprinkle over the top:

• garlic powder

• onion powder

• smoked paprika

• salt & pepper

Then flip potatoes cut-side down onto the sheet pan.

4. Roast

Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until:

• the cut side is deeply golden

• skins are crisp

• potatoes are tender when pierced

Time depends on potato size.

5. Serve

Flip potatoes cut-side up.
Garnish with chopped herbs.
Serve hot.

💡 Tips & Variations

• Crispiest method: Preheat the pan and lightly oil it before adding potatoes.

• Garlic butter version: Brush with melted vegan butter + garlic halfway through baking.

• Heat lovers: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes.

• Cheesy vegan version: Sprinkle with nutritional yeast after roasting.

• Potato skins too pale? Broil cut-side up for 2–3 minutes.

❓ Q&A Section

Q1: Should I peel the potatoes?

No—leave the skin on. It crisps beautifully and holds the scoring shape.

Q2: Can I use sweet potatoes?

Yes! Follow the same method but reduce baking time to 25–35 minutes.

Q3: Why do we score the potatoes?

Scoring helps them:

• cook faster

• crisp more

• absorb seasoning better

Q4: Can I make these oil-free?

Yes—use broth or aquafaba to moisten the surface.
They won’t get as crispy but still roast nicely.

Q5: What if my potatoes stick to the pan?

Make sure the pan is well-oiled or lined with parchment.
If sticking happens, let them roast a bit longer before flipping—the crust will release naturally.

Q6: How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
Reheat in:

• oven at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, or

• air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes.

Q7: Can I add other veggies to the sheet pan?

Yes—try carrots, onions, or broccoli.
Add them around the potatoes but keep potatoes cut-side down.