In a large skillet, brown the ground beef until it is no longer pink.
Add the garlic and dried onion and saute an additional minute or two, stirring just until it gets fragrant.
Add the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and beef base to the meat mixture. Stirring until fully combined.
Add in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook, stirring until vegetables are thawed and warm. Add a splash of water if the mix seems dry or too thick. You want the mix to be thick & spreadable, but not dry.
Pour the mixture into a round baking dish and spread it evenly.
Top with the mashed potatoes and a sprinkle of cheese (if using).
Bake in the oven for 15 minutes until it is hot, bubbly, and the tips of the mashed potatoes just begin to brown a tiny bit.
Allow it to cool for 10 minutes before serving and enjoy!