Swiss Steak Over Mashed Potatoes

For the swiss steak-

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 lb. stew meat
• salt & pepper to taste
• 6 large carrots peeled and cut into ¼ inch coins, about ¾ lb.
• 4 cups tomato juice or vegetable juice, such as V8
• 2 bay leaves
• 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 1/2 cups frozen peas

for the mashed potatoes-

• 2 pounds Idaho Potatoes

• 3 Tablespoons Salted Butter

• 4 ounces Cream Cheese

• 1 cup Whole Milk

• salt and pepper to taste