Name: Classic French Canadian Meat Pie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 250 ml chicken broth or meat broth; 2 pre-made pie dough round; 2 potatoes medium sized; 1 egg; 30 ml olive oil or butter; 400 g ground veal or beef; 400 g ground veal; 1 onion finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves finely chopped; 30 ml maple syrup; 1 tsp yellow mustard; 4 cloves in powder better; ½ tsp cinnamon powder; ½ tsp ginger in powder; ½ tsp paprika; ⅓ tsp nutmeg; salt and pepper

There’s something magical about a dish that brings people together, especially when it’s steeped in tradition and flavor. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s equal parts comforting and impressive, the French Canadian meat pie recipe, or Tourtière, is your answer.

Classic French Canadian Meat Pie Recipe

Warm up with a Classic French Canadian Meat Pie Recipe! Savory, spiced, and flaky—this iconic Tourtière is perfect for any occasion

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Prep Time15

Cook Time1 10

Total Time1 25

Servings:6 People

Course:Dinner, lunch

Cuisine:canadian, French

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

250 ml chicken broth or meat broth
2 pre-made pie dough round

2 potatoes medium sized
1 egg
30 ml olive oil or butter

Filling

400 g ground veal or beef
400 g ground veal
1 onion finely chopped

3 garlic cloves finely chopped
30 ml maple syrup
1 tsp yellow mustard

4 cloves in powder better
½ tsp cinnamon powder
½ tsp ginger in powder

½ tsp paprika
⅓ tsp nutmeg
salt and pepper

Method

Heat a skillet or big pan at medium-high heat and cook the onions with the olive oil until about 5 minutes.
Cook the potatoes in a small pot of water until tender, about 30 minutes.
Add the meat, garlic and all the spices to the pan and cook until brown,

Add the broth and let it simmer for about 40 minutes or until almost all the liquid is evaporated.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F), add the bottom pie dough to the mould and cook for 5 minutes.
Once the potatoes are cooked, cut into small cubes, add to the meat and mix.

Once cooled, add the filling to the bottomed pie dough and cover with the other pie dough; press the sides to close the pie and make a cut or hole on top.
Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the pie with a sprinkle of salt.
Cook in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 40 minutes or until golden

This savory pie, with its spiced meat filling and flaky crust, is a beloved staple in Quebecois cuisine, perfect for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave a taste of home-cooked warmth.

In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about making this iconic dish. From its rich history to step-by-step instructions, serving suggestions, and tips for success, we’ve got you covered. By the end, you’ll be ready to bring a slice of Quebec to your table.

What is Tourtière?

Tourtièreis more than just a meat pie—it’s a celebration of French Canadian culture. Originating in Quebec, this dish has been a centerpiece of holiday feasts, particularly during Christmas and New Year’s, for generations. Its name is believed to come from the tourte, a type of bird once used in the filling. Today, it’s typically made with ground veal, beef, or a mix of both, seasoned with warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.

I shared more detailed article about Tourtière : The History of Tourtière: A Timeless French-Canadian Tradition

What sets Tourtière apart is its ability to evoke nostalgia. For many, the aroma of spiced meat and buttery crust baking in the oven is a reminder of family gatherings and cherished traditions. Whether you’re new to this dish or grew up with it, making Tourtière at home is a rewarding experience that connects you to a rich culinary heritage.

Why You’ll Love This French Canadian Meat Pie Recipe

Before diving into the recipe, let’s talk about why this dish deserves a spot in your kitchen:

Comfort in Every Bite: The combination of savory meat, tender potatoes, and warm spices is pure comfort food.

Versatile and Customizable: You can tweak the spices, meat, or even the crust to suit your preferences.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday dinner, potluck, or weeknight meal, Tourtière fits the bill.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the pie ahead of time and bake it when needed—ideal for busy schedules.

Ready to get started? Let’s break down the ingredients and steps to create your own Tourtière masterpiece.

Key Ingredients For Meat Pie

The beauty of Tourtière lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic dish:

Ingredients for the Filling

ingredients classic french canadian meat pie recipe

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Ground	1 lb	Can substitute with ground beef or a mix.
Ground beef	1 lb	Adds richness to the filling.
Potatoes	2 medium	Peeled and cubed for texture.
Onion	1 large	Finely chopped for flavor.
Garlic	3 cloves	Minced for a savory kick.
Chicken or beef broth	1 cup	Enhances moisture and flavor.
Spices (cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg)	1 tsp each	Warm, aromatic spices for authenticity.
Salt and pepper	To taste	For seasoning.

Ingredients for the Pie Crust

ingredients classic french canadian meat pie

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
All-purpose flour	2 ½ cups	For a flaky, golden crust.
Butter (cold)	1 cup	Keeps the crust tender.
Ice water	6-8 tbsp	Adds moisture to bind the dough.
Salt	1 tsp	Enhances flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Tourtière

1. Preparing the Filling

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Brown the Meat: Add the ground veal and beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.
Add Spices and Broth: Sprinkle in the cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.

Mix in Potatoes: Fold in the cooked, cubed potatoes, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the filling.

2. Assembling and Baking the Pie

Prepare the Crust: While the filling simmers, roll out your pie dough. Line a 9-inch pie dish with the bottom crust, trimming any excess dough.
Fill the Pie: Spoon the meat mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly.

Top the Pie: Cover the filling with the second crust. Seal the edges by crimping them with a fork or your fingers. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pie for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Serving Suggestions for Tourtière

Once your Tourtière is out of the oven, let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your meal:

Traditional Pairings: Serve with ketchup (a Quebecois tradition) or homemade chutney for a tangy contrast.
Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh green salad, pickled vegetables, or roasted root vegetables for a balanced meal.
For Holidays: Make Tourtière the star of your Christmas or New Year’s dinner. It’s sure to impress your guests!

Try Easy French Canadian Meat Pie Recipe

Tips for Success

Use Cold Butter for the Crust: This ensures a flaky, tender texture.
Customize the Spices: Adjust the amounts of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to suit your taste.

Make Ahead: Assemble the pie and freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the best meat for Tourtière?

A mix of ground veal and beef is traditional, but you can use all veal or even venison for a unique twist.

2. Can I make Tourtière ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the pie and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze it for longer storage.

3. What makes Tourtière different from other meat pies?

The blend of warm spices (cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg) gives it a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart.

There’s no denying the charm of a well-made Tourtière. With its rich history, hearty filling, and flaky crust, this French Canadian meat pie recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start baking. Your very own Tourtière masterpiece is just a few steps away. Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family—because good food is meant to be shared.

For those interested in delving deeper into the classic French Canadian meat pie, known as tourtière, several resources offer comprehensive insights. The Canadian Encyclopedia provides an in-depth article on the history and regional variations of tourtière, highlighting its significance in Canadian cuisine.

thecanadianencyclopedia.ca For a detailed recipe and cooking instructions, Allrecipes features a highly-rated tourtière recipe that guides you through the process step by step.

allrecipes.com Additionally, Canadian Living offers a traditional tourtière recipe with instructions, emphasizing its role in holiday celebrations and providing tips for preparation.

canadianliving.com These resources offer a blend of historical context and practical guidance for anyone looking to explore or prepare this beloved dish.