Garlic Mashed Potatoes for Two
Highlighted under: Rustic Favorites
I absolutely adore making garlic mashed potatoes, especially when it's just me and my partner enjoying a cozy dinner at home. There's a certain warmth that comes from the combination of buttery potatoes and aromatic garlic that transforms an ordinary meal into something special. With each creamy bite, you can taste the love and effort that goes into this simple yet comforting dish. Plus, the fact that this recipe is perfectly portioned for two makes it our go-to choice for an intimate evening.
Throughout my journey in the kitchen, garlic mashed potatoes have become a staple for every special occasion I celebrate with my loved one. I remember the first time I made them, I overdid it on the garlic, but it turned out to be a delightful mistake, and that’s when I learned the importance of finding the perfect balance. Using roasted garlic gives a smoother flavor and a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the potatoes.
Each time I whip up this dish, I try to focus on the technique—using a potato ricer instead of a masher helps achieve that ultra-smooth texture. I often add a splash of cream at the end for richness, elevating the dish from ordinary comfort food to a luxurious experience. It’s one of those meals that brings both nostalgia and warmth, perfect for sharing.
Why You'll Love These Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Rich, buttery flavor with a hint of roasted garlic
- Perfectly creamy texture that’s easy to whip up
- Great pairing with any protein for a complete meal
Elevating Potato Texture
The key to achieving the perfect creamy texture in garlic mashed potatoes lies in the cooking technique. Ensure that the potatoes are cut into even, uniform cubes, about 1-2 inches. This helps them cook evenly. If you happen to have a potato ricer, I highly recommend using it instead of a traditional masher. A ricer produces a fluffier mash, allowing the butter and cream to envelop the potatoes, creating a luxurious consistency that's hard to resist.
When you've drained the potatoes and garlic, you'll want to return them to the hot pot briefly. This will effectively steam them, evaporating any residual moisture. This brief drying step is crucial; the less water in your mash, the creamier it'll be. Aim for about 1 minute on low heat, stirring gently, until you notice a slight steam rising from the pot.
Richness of Flavor
The roasted garlic in this recipe is what truly sets these mashed potatoes apart. To enhance the garlic’s flavor, consider roasting the cloves before adding them to the pot. Simply wrap unpeeled cloves in foil with a drizzle of olive oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until they are golden and soft. The caramelization deepens the taste, giving your mash a complex, sweet note that pairs beautifully with the buttery potatoes.
While heavy cream is ideal for richness, you can experiment with different dairy options if you're looking for a lighter version. Whole milk or half-and-half can be used instead, but be cautious as they might offer a thinner consistency. In contrast, swapping in sour cream can lend a delightful tang that elevates the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for the best garlic mashed potatoes:
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
- 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best results!
Instructions
Here’s how to make these delicious garlic mashed potatoes:
Boil the Potatoes and Garlic
In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and garlic cloves. Cover with cold water, season generously with salt, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain and Dry
Once cooked, drain the potatoes and garlic, returning them to the hot pot for a minute to evaporate excess moisture. This step ensures extra creamy mashed potatoes.
Mash and Mix
Using a potato ricer or masher, mash the potatoes and garlic until smooth. Stir in the butter and heavy cream until well combined, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve warm as a side dish, and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh chives or Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
These garlic mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time, making them a fantastic option for busy evenings. Prepare everything up to the mashing stage. After mashing, transfer the mixture to a covered dish and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring in a bit of extra cream or butter to restore moisture and creaminess.
If you find that your mashed potatoes have thickened too much in the fridge, don't worry! Simply add a splash of warm milk or cream while gently stirring to bring them back to that irresistible, creamy state. This method not only saves you time but also enhances the flavors as they meld overnight.
Serving Suggestions
To make dinner extra special, consider serving these garlic mashed potatoes alongside a protein of your choice, such as grilled chicken, pan-seared steak, or roasted vegetables. Their rich flavor complements a variety of dishes. You can also top them with sautéed mushrooms or crispy onion strings for added texture and flavor depth.
For a fun twist, try infusing other ingredients into your mashed potatoes. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can add a fresh note, while a sprinkle of grated cheese can introduce an earthy, salty element. Experimenting with add-ins can make the basic garlic mashed potatoes a versatile side dish that's tailored to your taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, while russet potatoes are preferred for their creaminess, Yukon gold potatoes also work well and have a buttery flavor.
→ How do I make these mashed potatoes vegan?
Substitute the butter and heavy cream with vegan alternatives like olive oil and almond or coconut milk.
→ Can I prepare these potatoes in advance?
Yes! You can prepare and mash the potatoes ahead of time, then reheat gently on the stovetop while stirring in a bit more cream.
→ What main dishes pair well with garlic mashed potatoes?
These mashed potatoes go wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian meal.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes for Two
I absolutely adore making garlic mashed potatoes, especially when it's just me and my partner enjoying a cozy dinner at home. There's a certain warmth that comes from the combination of buttery potatoes and aromatic garlic that transforms an ordinary meal into something special. With each creamy bite, you can taste the love and effort that goes into this simple yet comforting dish. Plus, the fact that this recipe is perfectly portioned for two makes it our go-to choice for an intimate evening.
Created by: Maeve Colchester
Recipe Type: Rustic Favorites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
- 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and garlic cloves. Cover with cold water, season generously with salt, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Once cooked, drain the potatoes and garlic, returning them to the hot pot for a minute to evaporate excess moisture. This step ensures extra creamy mashed potatoes.
Using a potato ricer or masher, mash the potatoes and garlic until smooth. Stir in the butter and heavy cream until well combined, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh chives or Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 298 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 5g