Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Preheating is essential for ensuring that the potatoes cook evenly and develop a nice crispy exterior.
2. Prepare the Pan: Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper. If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly grease the pan with a bit of olive oil. This prevents the potatoes from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Note: A properly heated oven and a well-prepared pan are key to achieving that coveted golden-brown finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Clean: Rinse the potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
2. Slice: Cut each potato in half lengthwise. This exposes a nice, flat surface for scoring and allows for even cooking.
3. Score: With the cut side facing up, use a sharp knife to score the potatoes. Make shallow crisscross cuts—about 1/4-inch deep—across the surface.
   • Tip: Be gentle! The cuts should be deep enough to let the seasonings and oil seep in, but not so deep that the potato falls apart.

Note: The scoring not only creates an attractive pattern but also increases the surface area, allowing for extra crispiness and flavor absorption.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

1. Arrange: Place the scored potatoes on your prepared sheet pan, ensuring the cut side is facing up.
2. Oil Up: Drizzle 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the potatoes. Use your hands or a basting brush to make sure the oil gets into those crisscross cuts.
3. Spice It Up: Evenly sprinkle 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (if using), 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper over the potatoes. Make sure every nook and cranny is coated for maximum flavor.

Additional Note: Feel free to adjust the seasoning quantities based on your personal taste. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Experimentation is a great way to learn what you like!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Bake: Place the sheet pan in your preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. The potatoes should become tender on the inside, and the edges should turn a beautiful golden brown.
2. Extra Crispiness: For an extra crispy finish, switch your oven to the broil setting for the last 2–3 minutes of baking.
   • Caution: Keep a close eye on the potatoes during broiling. They can go from perfect to burnt very quickly!

Tip: Check doneness by inserting a fork into the potato. If it slides in easily, they’re ready to be taken out of the oven.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Cool Briefly: Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Add the Finishing Touches: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary or thyme over the potatoes. If you’re a fan of cheese, add a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
3. Serve: Enjoy your crispy, golden scored potatoes warm, either as a side dish or a tasty snack.

Serving Suggestion: Serve these alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon for a complete meal. They’re also a fantastic addition to a brunch spread when paired with eggs and bacon.