Garlic Mashed Potatoes for Two

Name: Garlic Mashed Potatoes for Two
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Chives for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Food Collection

I never knew how comforting a bowl of garlic mashed potatoes could be until I tried this recipe. With just the right amount of creaminess and a subtle punch of garlic, they are perfect for a cozy dinner for two. I love how easy they are to whip up, and they pair wonderfully with just about any protein. Plus, making them from scratch truly elevates the overall dining experience, turning something simple into a delightfully rich side dish you’ll crave time and again.

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:53:35.429Z

When we first made these garlic mashed potatoes, I was amazed by how a few simple ingredients could yield such a rich and flavorful dish. The key is using fresh garlic and creamy butter, which together create a beautiful blend of taste and texture. I also learned that letting the potatoes steam a bit after boiling helps maintain their fluffiness.

Another tip is to experiment with different types of potatoes. While I used Yukon Golds for their buttery flavor, Russets work well too. Don't hesitate to add your personal touch, perhaps a sprinkle of chives or a dash of Parmesan for that extra oomph!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that perfectly complements any protein
Robust garlic flavor that enhances comfort food appeal
Quick and easy recipe ideal for weeknight meals

The Importance of Potato Choice

Choosing the right potatoes is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your mashed potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes are my go-to because they have a naturally creamy texture that lends itself well to mashing. Their slightly buttery flavor enhances the dish without needing excessive added fats. If you cannot find Yukon Golds, Russet potatoes are a suitable alternative. However, they may require a bit more cream to reach that luscious consistency.

Make sure to cut the potatoes into even cubes before boiling. This ensures uniform cooking and prevents some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain firm. Aim for 1-inch cubes for optimal cooking—this size typically results in tender potatoes in about 15 minutes of simmering. If you notice the potatoes breaking apart while boiling, reduce the cooking time slightly to maintain some structure.

Perfecting Your Garlic Flavor

The garlic in this recipe is sautéed until fragrant, which releases its natural oils and sweetness. Be careful not to let the garlic brown as this can introduce a bitter flavor, overshadowing the dish’s overall richness. A medium heat setting works best, allowing the garlic to become aromatic in about 2 minutes. If you prefer a milder taste, consider using roasted garlic instead—it’s sweeter and adds a lovely depth to the mashed potatoes.

If you want to add an extra dimension of flavor, consider incorporating a splash of chicken or vegetable broth while mashing. This can help to achieve a silkier texture and infuse the mashed potatoes with a savory undertone that complements the garlic perfectly. Just be mindful of your salt addition since broth can be salty.

Serving and Variations

These garlic mashed potatoes are wonderfully versatile and can be served as a side to a wide range of proteins. Whether it’s a juicy steak, roasted chicken, or even a lovely piece of salmon, this dish can elevate your meal. For a festive twist, try adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of truffle oil just before serving to impress your dinner companion.

If you find yourself with leftovers, they store well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little cream or milk to restore their creamy texture. For a fun twist, transform leftovers into potato cakes by mixing in some cheese and an egg, shaping them into patties, and pan-frying until crispy.

Ingredients

For Garlic Mashed Potatoes

2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.

Cook the Garlic

In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and set aside.

Mash and Mix

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the sautéed garlic and butter, along with the heavy cream. Mash everything together until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl, garnish with chives if using, and enjoy your delicious garlic mashed potatoes!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding roasted garlic or a sprinkle of grated cheese during the mashing process for enhanced flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your mashed potatoes turn out too gummy, this is usually a sign of over-mixing. To remedy this, use a hand masher instead of an electric mixer, as the latter can overwork the starches. Aim for a light touch and stop mashing once you've reached your preferred consistency; some lumps add character and texture.

In case your mashed potatoes seem dry, you can always rescue them by adding more heavy cream or a splash of milk. Heat the liquid slightly before mixing it in to ensure it integrates smoothly. This can help achieve a silky finish without cooling down your dish.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you’d like to prepare these garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time, you can make the entire dish and then cool it completely before refrigerating. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove with a little extra cream to restore the creaminess. This can save you time during busy weeknight dinners or when entertaining guests.

For those interested in meal prep, you can also freeze garlic mashed potatoes. Just let them cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. When freezing, try to keep the mashed potatoes flat in the container to speed up thawing. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat gently before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat them gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed.

→ What type of potatoes work best for mash?

Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are popular choices due to their creamy texture and flavor. Yukon Golds offer a buttery taste, while Russets create a fluffier mash.

→ Can I make garlic mashed potatoes without cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute the cream with milk or even vegetable broth for a lighter option. For creaminess, add additional butter or olive oil.

→ How can I add more flavor to my mashed potatoes?

Consider adding roasted garlic, sour cream, or even a splash of white wine for a unique kick. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can also elevate the flavor.