Scored (Hasselback-Style) Potatoes Recipe
Introduction
Scored potatoes are a beautiful and delicious way to prepare potatoes by making thin, evenly spaced cuts across the surface of each potato without slicing all the way through. This technique creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft, fluffy, and flavorful. The method is often associated with the famous hasselback potato style, which originated in Scandinavian cuisine but has become popular worldwide because of its impressive presentation and rich texture.
Scored potatoes are perfect as a side dish for roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even as a standalone snack. When properly seasoned and baked, the outer layers become wonderfully crispy, while the inner layers absorb butter, herbs, and spices. This recipe will guide you step by step to making restaurant-quality scored potatoes at home.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
6 to 8 medium-sized potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, finely minced
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
Optional Flavor Enhancers
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
2 tablespoons sour cream for serving
1 teaspoon chili flakes if you prefer a slightly spicy taste
Equipment Needed
Sharp kitchen knife
Cutting board
Baking tray
Parchment paper or aluminum foil
Pastry brush or spoon for basting
Small mixing bowl
Choosing the Right Potatoes
The success of scored potatoes depends greatly on the type of potato used. Russet potatoes are excellent because they have high starch content, which results in a fluffy interior after baking. Yukon Gold potatoes are slightly waxier but provide a richer, buttery taste.
Choose potatoes that are:
Similar in size for even cooking
Firm and free of green patches or sprouts
Medium-sized rather than very large
Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water since the skin will be eaten.
Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes
First, dry the washed potatoes using a clean kitchen towel.
Place one potato on a cutting board. To create the characteristic scored pattern:
Place a wooden spoon handle or chopstick on each side of the potato.
Make thin vertical cuts across the potato, about 2–3 millimeters apart.
Stop cutting when the knife reaches the spoon handle so you do not slice the potato completely.
Continue until the entire potato surface is scored.
This technique helps keep the base intact while allowing heat and seasoning to penetrate the layers.
Repeat the process for all potatoes.
Step 2: Preparing the Butter and Seasoning Mix
In a small bowl, combine:
Melted butter
Olive oil
Minced garlic
Salt and pepper
Paprika (if using)
Dried herbs
Mix everything well until the garlic and spices are evenly distributed.
The combination of butter and olive oil is important. Butter adds rich flavor, while olive oil helps achieve a crisp golden surface because it has a higher smoke point.
Step 3: Applying the Seasoning
Place the scored potatoes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Using a pastry brush or spoon:
Gently spread the butter mixture over each potato.
Make sure the seasoning penetrates the scored cuts.
Lift the potato slightly and apply mixture inside the slits carefully.
Take your time during this step because proper seasoning inside the cuts is what makes scored potatoes taste amazing.
If you want extra flavor, you can sprinkle a small amount of salt between the potato slices.
Step 4: First Baking Stage
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
Place the tray in the middle rack of the oven.
Bake the potatoes for about 35 minutes.
During this stage:
The potato interior begins to soften.
The edges start developing a light golden color.
Avoid opening the oven too frequently because heat loss can affect texture.
Step 5: Basting for Extra Crispiness
After 35 minutes, remove the tray carefully.
Use a spoon to baste the potatoes with the melted butter and oil mixture that may have collected on the tray.
This step is extremely important for achieving the signature crispy surface.
If the potatoes look dry, you can add a little more melted butter.
Return the tray to the oven.
Step 6: Final Baking Stage
Continue baking for another 25–30 minutes.
The potatoes are ready when:
The outer layers are golden brown and slightly crispy.
The inner layers are soft when pierced with a fork.
The edges of the slices start separating slightly.
If you like extra crunchiness, you can switch the oven to broil mode for the last 3–5 minutes, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 7: Adding Cheese and Herbs (Optional but Recommended)
If you enjoy a richer flavor, remove the potatoes from the oven and immediately sprinkle:
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh chopped parsley
A little more garlic butter mixture
The residual heat will melt the cheese gently.
Step 8: Serving Suggestions
Scored potatoes are best served hot.
You can pair them with:
Roasted chicken
Grilled steak
Fish fillet
Vegetable salad
Creamy mushroom sauce
For dipping, sour cream mixed with herbs works very well.
Texture and Flavor Expectations
When cooked correctly, scored potatoes should have:
Crispy, golden exterior layers
Soft and fluffy interior
Rich buttery garlic aroma
Slight herbal notes if herbs are used
The combination of textures is what makes this dish special.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cutting the Potato Completely
If you cut the potato all the way through, it will fall apart during baking. Always use a cutting guide like chopsticks or a wooden spoon.
Using Too Little Fat
Fat is necessary for crisping and flavor. Do not reduce butter or oil too much.
Uneven Potato Sizes
Different potato sizes will cook at different speeds, causing some to be undercooked.
Skipping Basting
Basting during baking is essential for achieving professional-quality results.
Variations of Scored Potatoes
Spicy Version
Add:
Chili powder
Cayenne pepper
Smoked paprika
This version is excellent for people who enjoy a stronger flavor profile.
Cheesy Garlic Version
Increase garlic quantity and add mozzarella or cheddar cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Mediterranean Style
Use olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and a pinch of sea salt.
Vegan Version
Replace butter with plant-based margarine or additional olive oil.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers:
Store potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in an oven at 180°C for about 10–15 minutes.
Avoid microwaving because it will make the surface soft instead of crispy.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Per serving (1 potato):
Calories: 180–250 kcal depending on butter amount
Carbohydrates: High due to potato starch
Fat: Moderate
Protein: Low to moderate
Tips for Restaurant-Level Results
Use fresh garlic rather than garlic powder.
Allow potatoes to dry completely after washing.
Brush butter mixture inside the cuts carefully.
Bake on parchment paper instead of directly on metal tray.
Choose potatoes with smooth skin for better presentation.
Conclusion
Scored potatoes are a simple yet visually impressive dish that combines basic ingredients with careful preparation technique. The scoring method allows heat and seasoning to penetrate deep into the potato layers, producing a unique combination of crispness and softness. With practice, you can customize the seasoning, adjust baking time, and create your own signature version of this classic side dish.
Enjoy making and sharing your homemade scored potatoes!
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