Description
Mashed yams on top of beef? Yep, and it totally works. Save this Mini Cottage Pie recipe for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (grass-fed if possible)
- 1 cup beef broth (homemade or organic store-bought)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 stick good-quality butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 2 medium yams or sweet potatoes
- 3/4 cup sharp cheddar, shredded
- 1 tbsp arrowroot powder
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Sea salt + black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Pop the whole yams (or sweet potatoes) in the oven at 375°F for 30–45 minutes until soft.
- Peel and mash them with ½ stick of butter, cream, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
- In a large pan, melt the remaining ¼ stick of butter over medium heat.
- Cook the chopped onions and diced carrots until the onions are soft and the carrots start to brown a little.
- Stir in the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces.
- Cook until browned all the way through, about 10 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, and thyme.
- Mix well, then lower the heat. Let it simmer so the liquid reduces, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the peas. Sprinkle the arrowroot powder over the top and stir quickly to avoid clumps.
- Keep stirring until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Add salt and pepper to your liking. Remove from heat.
- Spoon the beef and veggie mixture into individual ramekins or a baking dish.
- Spread the mashed yams over the top. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling with golden edges.
Why You’ll Love It:
These mini cottage pies are cozy, colorful, and full of real flavor. The creamy mashed yam topping makes them a little extra special, while the hearty beef and veggie base keeps things satisfying. Great for prepping ahead, even better the next day.
Notes
Created, prepared, tried, and tested by Renee

