This recipe is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. The savory beef filling is deeply satisfying, while the kumara mash adds a natural sweetness that balances the dish beautifully. It’s a great alternative to traditional mashed potato pies, offering a unique twist with extra nutrients and color. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, it’s both filling and easy to make.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
kumara (sweet potatoes), peeled and chopped butter milk or cream salt black pepper
optional: peas, corn, grated cheese for topping, fresh herbs
Directions
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Start by preparing the kumara mash. Boil the chopped kumara in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk or cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, then stir in the garlic.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Stir in the diced carrot and celery, cooking for a few minutes until slightly softened.
Add tomato paste and cook briefly, then sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine.
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until the mixture thickens into a rich filling. Season with salt and pepper. Add peas or corn if using.
Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
Top with the kumara mash, smoothing it over the surface. Use a fork to create texture on top if desired.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and the filling is bubbling.
Let it cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4–6 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 35–40 minutes Total time: about 1 hour
Variations
You can use ground lamb instead of beef for a different flavor profile. Add spices like paprika or herbs like thyme for extra depth. For a lighter version, use less butter in the mash or substitute with olive oil. You can also mix regular potatoes with kumara for a more traditional topping.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven until warmed through, or in the microwave for convenience. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
What is kumara?
Kumara is a type of sweet potato commonly used in many cuisines.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it in advance and bake when ready to serve.
Can I freeze this pie?
Yes, it freezes well both before and after baking.
How do I make the mash extra creamy?
Add more butter or cream to achieve your desired texture.
Can I use regular potatoes instead?
Yes, regular mashed potatoes can be used as a substitute.
What vegetables can I add?
Peas, corn, green beans, or mushrooms work well.
How do I know when it’s done?
The top should be lightly golden and the filling bubbling.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour substitute to adapt the recipe.
What can I serve with this pie?
A fresh salad or steamed vegetables pair nicely.
Conclusion
Beef and kumara mash pie is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines rich, savory filling with a naturally sweet and creamy topping. Perfect for cozy meals, it’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
This beef and kumara mash pie is a hearty, comforting dish featuring a rich savory beef filling topped with creamy, naturally sweet kumara mash. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s a delicious twist on a classic shepherd’s pie.
Ingredients
Ground beef
Olive oil
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Carrot, diced
Celery, chopped
Tomato paste
Beef broth
Worcestershire sauce
Flour
Salt
Black pepper
For the kumara mash:
Kumara (sweet potatoes), peeled and chopped
Butter
Milk or cream
Salt
Black pepper
Optional:
Peas
Corn
Grated cheese for topping
Fresh herbs
Instructions
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Boil kumara in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter and milk or cream until smooth. Season and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Cook onion until softened, then add garlic.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Stir in carrot and celery and cook until slightly softened.
Add tomato paste and cook briefly, then sprinkle in flour and mix well.
Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until thickened. Season with salt and pepper. Add optional vegetables if using.
Transfer beef mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
Top with kumara mash, smoothing it out and creating texture with a fork if desired.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Combine kumara with regular potatoes for a more traditional topping.Add herbs like thyme or spices like paprika for extra flavor.For a lighter version, reduce butter or use olive oil in the mash.
