Garlic changes character with preparation
The idea
Fresh garlic, cooked garlic and garlic worked into a sauce can give very different impressions. The amount is only one part of the story; the preparation affects how strongly the flavor reaches you. That is why liking garlic potatoes does not necessarily predict how much garlic sauce you will want.
A practical next step
Taste a sauce on the side before adding it across a whole meal if you are unsure about the strength.