Creating Cumberland Pie can be straightforward if you follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brown Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until soft, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add Remaining Veggies: Stir in the diced carrots, peas, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Mix thoroughly.
5. Add Broth: Pour in the broth, bring to a simmer, and let cook for about 10-15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook Potatoes: While the meat mixture simmers, place the diced potatoes in a separate pot of salted water. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
7. Mash Potatoes: Drain the potatoes, then return them to the pot. Add milk and butter, then mash until smooth.
8. Assemble Pie: In a baking dish, layer the meat mixture on the bottom. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
9. Add Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle grated cheese on top for added flavor and texture.
10. Bake: Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
11. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the pie cool for about 15 minutes before serving.