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

Step 2: Score the Potatoes

Place a potato on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, make parallel cuts about ⅛ to ¼ inch apart along the length of the potato. Don’t cut all the way through; the slices should remain attached at the bottom. You want the potato to fan out slightly as it cooks, creating more surface area for crispiness.

Tip: You can place chopsticks or wooden spoons on either side of the potato to avoid cutting through completely.

Step 3: Season Generously

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Using a pastry brush, carefully brush the mixture over the top of each scored potato, making sure it seeps into the slices. Season the inside lightly with a pinch of salt to ensure every layer is flavorful.

Step 4: Roast to Crispy Perfection

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the scored potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased tray. Roast for about 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy, and the inside is soft.

Halfway through, you can baste the potatoes with extra melted butter for added richness. The cuts will expand as they cook, creating those signature crispy, ruffled edges.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once roasted, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle with more melted butter or even a little grated cheese.

Serve your scored potatoes as a side for roast chicken, steak, or enjoy them as a hearty snack on their own. Each bite delivers a perfect contrast of textures—crispy edges with a soft, fluffy center.

Pro Tips for Next-Level Scored Potatoes

1. Butter Infusion: Mix minced garlic and fresh herbs into your melted butter for a fragrant punch.
2. Crispier Edges: After brushing the butter, sprinkle a tiny bit of coarse salt or parmesan for extra crunch.
3. Microwave Shortcut: If you’re short on time, microwave the scored potatoes for 5–6 minutes before roasting—they’ll cook faster while still getting crispy.
4. Presentation: Serve them on a rustic wooden board with small dipping sauces like sour cream or aioli.

Scored potatoes aren’t just a side dish—they’re a statement. With minimal effort, you can elevate a simple potato into a crispy, buttery masterpiece that will wow anyone at your dinner table. Once you try this method, plain baked potatoes will feel… well, boring in comparison!

If you want, I can also create a step-by-step photo guide showing exactly how the scoring, basting, and roasting should look. It’ll make it feel like a pro recipe straight out of a cooking magazine.

Do you want me to do that?