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; 2 cloves of garlic; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love this recipe for Garlic Mashed Potatoes for Two because it perfectly balances comfort with a hint of elegance. The creamy texture, paired with the aromatic flavor of roasted garlic, makes it an ideal side dish for any meal. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a small gathering, these mashed potatoes elevate the dining experience without the fuss. In just a few easy steps, I can create a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate.

Created by

Olivia Martin

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:02:37.258Z

Creating the perfect Garlic Mashed Potatoes was quite a revelation for me. I started by roasting the garlic, which infused my kitchen with a toasty aroma that instantly made me nostalgic. After experimenting with different potato varieties, I discovered that Yukon Golds offer just the right amount of creaminess and flavor balance. Adding a splash of cream and a little butter allows the garlic to shine without overpowering the dish.

What I found truly transformative was mashing the potatoes by hand instead of using a mixer. This technique gave the mashed potatoes a delightful texture and allowed me to control how smooth or chunky I wanted them. I love topping them off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor that impresses without being too complicated.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that perfectly complements any dish
Roasted garlic adds a rich, savory flavor
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

Perfecting the Potatoes

Choosing Yukon Gold potatoes for this recipe is crucial due to their buttery flavor and smooth texture. When peeling and chopping, aim for uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. If you happen to have red potatoes or russets on hand, they can serve as substitutes, though Yukon Golds provide a creamier finish that's hard to replicate. Keep the potato chunks about 1-inch in size to achieve a tender bite after boiling.

Once you've chopped the potatoes, it's essential to start them in cold water. This method helps the potatoes cook evenly from the inside out, preventing a mushy exterior and hard center. As the water heats, the starches begin to release slowly, leading to that creamy texture we're after in mashed potatoes. Bring the pot to a rolling boil and lower the heat to a simmer, keeping an eye on the garlic, which will also soften and sweeten during this process.

Achieving the Ideal Consistency

When mashing the potatoes, a potato masher is my preferred tool because it gives you the ability to control the consistency better than a food processor would, which can lead to gummy potatoes. I mash them until they resemble a rustic texture; lumps can add character and a homemade feel to the dish. If you prefer a silkier finish, you could use a ricer, but I recommend mashing by hand to retain some of that comforting chunkiness.

It's the addition of heavy cream and butter that takes these mashed potatoes to the next level. Adjust the amount of cream based on your desired richness; starting with 1/4 cup is perfect, but feel free to add a splash more if you want a silkier texture. Make sure to mix the butter in while the potatoes are still warm—this allows it to melt completely and incorporate smoothly, leading to that luxurious, glossy finish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your Garlic Mashed Potatoes for Two.

Ingredients

2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes
2 cloves of garlic
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

Prepare the Potatoes and Garlic

Peel and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into equal-sized cubes. In a small pot, add the potatoes and cover with cold water. Add the garlic cloves, bringing everything to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

Drain and Mash

Once tender, drain the potatoes and garlic. Return them to the pot and begin mashing with a potato masher until desired consistency is reached.

Add Cream and Butter

Stir in the heavy cream and butter, mixing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Spoon the mashed potatoes into serving bowls and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture for a tangy taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you find yourself with leftover mashed potatoes, they store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore moisture, and consider warming them in a microwave-safe bowl or over low heat on the stove. Stir frequently to ensure they heat evenly and don’t dry out.

For meal prepping, you can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and store them in individual serving portions. This way, you can pop them in the microwave whenever you need a comforting side dish. You can also freeze them for up to two months, though it's best to add a touch more butter and cream before freezing to maintain texture. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

Serving Suggestions

These garlic mashed potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of proteins, from grilled steaks to herb-roasted chicken. I particularly enjoy them alongside a rich gravy or creamy sauce, which enhances their flavor while keeping the dish cohesive. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese can elevate the experience even further, adding a tangy contrast to the garlic's sweetness.

For a twist, consider infusing the mashed potatoes with additional flavors. Chopped scallions or shredded cheese can be mixed in during the mashing process. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of smoked paprika or fresh thyme can bring an exciting new dimension to this dish, ensuring no two servings of mashed potatoes are ever the same.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While Yukon Golds are recommended, you can use Russets for a fluffier texture.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with almond milk and butter with olive oil for a lighter version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the mashed potatoes and reheat them just before serving. Add a splash of cream during reheating to maintain creaminess.