Scored Potatoes Recipe – Crispy, Buttery & Far From Boring (The Upgrade Your Baked Potato Deserves!)

Step 2: Score the Potatoes

Place one potato on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts across the top, spacing them about ¼ inch apart. Be careful not to cut all the way through—aim for about three-quarters of the way down.
A helpful trick: Place wooden spoons or chopsticks on either side of the potato to stop the knife from slicing too deep.

Repeat with the remaining potatoes.

Step 3: Create the Flavor Butter

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. This mixture is the secret to turning simple potatoes into something unforgettable.

Step 4: Brush and Season Generously

Place the scored potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased foil. Use a pastry brush or spoon to generously coat each potato, making sure the buttery mixture seeps into the cuts. Don’t rush this step—the more flavor between the slices, the better.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Transfer the potatoes to the oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, depending on their size. Halfway through baking, remove them from the oven and brush on more of the butter mixture. This second coating helps the edges crisp up and enhances the flavor.

Step 6: Add Optional Toppings

If you’re using cheese or Parmesan, sprinkle it over the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking. The cheese will melt into the grooves, creating crispy, savory pockets of goodness.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Once the potatoes are golden brown with crispy edges and tender centers, remove them from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for color and freshness. Serve hot with sour cream, extra butter, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Serving Ideas & Variations

• Herb Lover’s Version: Add rosemary or thyme to the butter mixture.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Finish with sharp cheddar or Gruyère.
• Spicy Twist: Sprinkle chili flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
• Garlic Parmesan Style: Add extra garlic and a generous layer of Parmesan.

Final Thoughts

Scored potatoes prove that even the simplest ingredients can shine with the right technique. Crispy on the outside, soft and buttery on the inside, and packed with flavor in every slice, this dish is anything but boring. Once you try this method, plain baked potatoes may never make it back onto your plate.

One bite, and you’ll understand why this is the baked potato upgrade you didn’t know you needed.