Garlic Mashed Potatoes for Two

Name: Garlic Mashed Potatoes for Two
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks; 4 cloves garlic, whole; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup milk (more if needed); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Favorite Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making garlic mashed potatoes, especially when I want a cozy dinner for two. These creamy, buttery potatoes are infused with roasted garlic, giving them an irresistible flavor that elevates any meal. The best part is how easy they are to whip up in just under 30 minutes! The combination of buttery Yukon Gold potatoes and the rich aroma of garlic creates a comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with anything from steak to roasted chicken. Trust me, you'll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for date nights or special occasions.

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:57:39.692Z

When I first tried making garlic mashed potatoes, I was surprised by how much flavor a few simple ingredients could create. Roasting the garlic first brings out its sweetness, which perfectly balances the creamy potatoes. I remember one night when I served this dish with a simple grilled chicken; my partner couldn't stop raving about how delicious it was. It quickly became a staple in our home, especially for cozy dinners.

Another tip I’ve learned along the way is that using Yukon Gold potatoes not only makes for a smoother mash but adds a subtly buttery taste that combines beautifully with the garlic. This method has turned a classic dish into something we truly cherish, and it’s perfect for a quick yet impressive addition to any meal.

        Why You'll Love These Garlic Mashed Potatoes
        Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Irresistible garlic flavor that complements any dish
Quick and easy to prepare for cozy dinners

      

Understanding the Potatoes

Choosing the right potatoes is essential for creamy mashed potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes are excellent due to their buttery flavor and smooth texture. When selecting your potatoes, look for ones that are firm and unblemished. Avoid potatoes with green spots or sprouts, as these can impart a bitter taste. If you’re looking for a lower-carb alternative, consider using cauliflower, which can give you a lighter version while still maintaining a creamy mouthfeel.

Cut your potatoes into uniform chunks to ensure even cooking. I recommend pieces about one inch in size; this helps them cook in the same amount of time and makes mashing easier. Too large chunks may require more cooking time, while smaller bits might break down too much and become watery. Keep an eye on them as you boil; you want them fork-tender but not mushy.

The Aromatic Touch of Roasted Garlic

Roasting garlic mellows its flavor, transforming sharp and pungent into a sweet and nutty addition to your mashed potatoes. Ensure your garlic cloves are tightly wrapped in foil to keep them moist and allow them to cook evenly. The goal is to roast them until they are soft and golden, which typically takes around 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). You can tell they’re ready when the cloves give easily to gentle pressure and emit a fragrant aroma.

If you're short on time, you can use sautéed minced garlic instead of roasted, but keep in mind that the flavor will be different. Sauté the minced garlic in the butter on low heat until fragrant, taking care not to burn it. This offers a more intense garlic punch, which could be desirable for garlic lovers.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These garlic mashed potatoes pair beautifully with various proteins like steak, chicken, and even fish. For a richer experience, consider topping your mashed potatoes with a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. You can also incorporate other herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, which complement the garlic nicely and add an extra layer of flavor.

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can make the mashed potatoes and refrigerate them for up to two days. When you're ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove with a splash more milk to achieve the desired consistency. This makes garlic mashed potatoes an ideal side for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal without the last-minute rush.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the perfect garlic mashed potatoes for two:

Ingredients

2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
4 cloves garlic, whole
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup milk (more if needed)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Now that you have everything, let's get started!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make delicious garlic mashed potatoes:

Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the whole garlic cloves in aluminum foil with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, until soft and fragrant.

Boil the Potatoes

While the garlic is roasting, place the peeled potato chunks in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.

Mash Together

Once the potatoes are cooked and drained, squeeze the roasted garlic from its skins and add it to the pot along with the butter and milk. Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting the milk for desired consistency.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives if desired.

Enjoy your rich and flavorful garlic mashed potatoes!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese right before serving.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your mashed potatoes turn out too sticky, it's usually because they were overmashed or the potatoes were too watery. To fix this, consider adding a bit more butter or cream to balance the texture. Alternatively, if the potatoes are too dry, gently mix in some warm milk or broth, which can rehydrate them without making them gummy.

Another common issue is bland flavor. Make sure to taste your mashed potatoes after adding salt and pepper. If they're still lacking, a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of garlic powder can enhance the flavor profile without overwhelming the original roasted garlic taste. Always season in increments to avoid over-salting.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftover garlic mashed potatoes, let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them in portioned amounts—just make sure to use freezer-safe containers. They can be stored for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

When reheating, the key is to do so gently to maintain creaminess. You can use a stovetop for gradual heating, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep the texture smooth. If using a microwave, stir occasionally to ensure even heating, avoiding hot spots that can create a dry texture. A few quick bursts of heat are much better than one long session.

Scaling the Recipe Up

This garlic mashed potato recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings. Just remember to adjust the cooking times slightly, especially when boiling the potatoes. Larger quantities can take a few extra minutes to reach fork-tenderness, so be sure to test them by piercing with a fork.

When scaling the recipe, keep a close eye on the garlic. If you're roasting a larger batch, you might need to increase the roasting time slightly and space out the cloves on the tray to ensure they roast evenly. Make sure to keep a consistent eye on them to enhance that perfect caramelized flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of potato?

Yes, although Yukon Golds work best for a creamy texture, you can also use Russets if you prefer.

→ How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk for moisture.

→ Can this recipe be made vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk for a delicious vegan version.

→ Is it necessary to roast the garlic?

While you don’t have to roast the garlic, it enhances the flavor and sweetness, making the mashed potatoes tastier.