Name: Savory Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière for Cozy Family Feasts
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef (or substitute with ground pork or turkey); 1 medium Onion (chopped, yellow or white); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (adjust to taste); 0.25 teaspoon Ground Cloves (a little goes a long way); 0.5 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (reduce if preferred); 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste); 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (or to taste); 1 cup Diced Potatoes (or breadcrumbs or wild rice); 0.5 cup Beef Broth (low-sodium recommended); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped); 1 9-inch Pastry Crust (store-bought is fine); 1 large Egg (for egg wash)

Amid the snowy streets of Quebec, the aroma wafting from kitchens draws neighbors together like a warm embrace. One dish that embodies this cozy spirit is Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière—a savory meat pie that’s become a staple in many homes. Crafted with a delightful mix of ground beef and aromatic spices, this traditional tourtière offers a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any gathering. Not only is it a fantastic crowd-pleaser, but its freezer-friendly nature means you can whip up batches ahead of time. With endless opportunities for customizations, this classic Canadian meat pie will become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire. Curious how to create this delicious comfort food? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Tourtière a Must-Try Dish?

Hearty Comfort: This Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière offers a warm hug in pie form, perfect for cozy family meals.
Flavor Explosion: The rich blend of spices and tender ground beef creates an irresistible aroma that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Freezer-Friendly: Make-ahead convenience means you can stock your freezer with delicious pies, ready to bake whenever you crave comfort.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap proteins or add veggies to suit your family’s taste; it’s versatile enough for any preference.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at gatherings or holidays, and watch your guests enjoy every bite of this beloved Canadian classic! If you’re looking for more beef inspiration, don’t miss out on Korean Ground Beef or try the zesty Firecracker Beef for a twist.

Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière Ingredients

For the Filling
Ground Beef – The heart of this tourtière, providing savory flavor; substitute with ground pork or turkey for a twist.
Onion – Adds natural sweetness and depth; yellow or white onion works best for this recipe.
Garlic – Elevates the flavor profile; fresh cloves are ideal, but 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder will suffice.
Ground Cinnamon – A warm spice that enhances complexity; adjust based on your spice sensitivity.
Ground Cloves – Provides a fragrant, aromatic touch; just a little goes a long way in flavor.
Ground Nutmeg – Infuses a subtle sweetness; feel free to reduce if you’re not a fan of nutmeg.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance overall flavor; adjust to your taste preference.
Diced Potatoes – Adds texture and thickens the filling; can be replaced with breadcrumbs or wild rice if preferred.
Beef Broth – Introduces moisture to the filling; opt for low-sodium versions to keep it healthier.
Fresh Parsley – For a pop of color and freshness; you can swap for other fresh herbs like thyme.
For the Crust
Pastry Crust – The golden, flaky base and cover for your pie; store-bought is perfectly fine for convenience.
Egg (for egg wash) – Ensures your tourtière has a beautiful golden finish; a brush of this is crucial before baking.

This Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière will warm your soul, with its savory, aromatic filling enveloped in a flaky crust. Get ready to enjoy a taste of Canada right in your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière

Step 1: Cook Filling
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once hot, brown the ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces, about 8–10 minutes. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they soften and become fragrant, approximately 5 minutes.

Step 2: Season
Stir in ground cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, letting the spices meld beautifully with the meat, enhancing the flavor profile of your Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière.

Step 3: Add Potatoes
Mix in the diced potatoes and pour in a splash of beef broth to moisten the filling. Simmer on low for about 10–15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the filling thickens, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Cool Filling
Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the fresh parsley, adding color and brightness to your filling. Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a separate bowl; this cooling step is crucial to prevent a soggy pie crust.

Step 5: Prepare Pastry
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one sheet of pastry dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your pie dish. Carefully line the bottom of the dish with this crust, ensuring there are no tears, and set it aside while you fill it.

Step 6: Assemble Pie
Spoon the cooled beef filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Top with another sheet of pastry, crimping the edges to seal in the delicious filling. Cut a few small slits in the top to create a steam vent, allowing moisture to escape during baking.

Step 7: Bake
Brush the top crust with a beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish. Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, checking for a deep golden color on the crust. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Step 8: Serve
Once baked, let the Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière cool slightly on a wire rack for around 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, allowing everyone to savor the rich flavors and cozy textures that make this dish a timeless favorite.

What to Serve with Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière

Elevate your homemade tourtière by pairing it with delightful sides and drinks that enhance its hearty flavors.

Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds crunch to balance the rich filling.
Minty Pea Salad: A refreshing pea salad with mint and lemon brightens every bite and complements the warm spices beautifully.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Sweet and earthy roasted carrots, parsnips, and beets bring out the savory notes of the tourtière while offering a delightful texture contrast.
Pickles or Relish: Crisp pickles provide a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the meat pie, making each mouthful exciting.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Whip up some butter-laden mashed potatoes for an ultra-comforting plate and a delicious creamy addition beside the pie.
Fine Red Wine: A smooth red wine like a Pinot Noir pairs nicely with the tourtière, enriching the dining experience with its earthy and fruity flavors.
Warm Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a sweet ending that is both comforting and indulgent.
Savory Mustard: Offer a dollop of whole grain mustard on the side; its sharpness cuts through the meatly goodness of the pie, adding a layer of flavor.
Herbed Yogurt Sauce: A dollop of herbed yogurt sauce adds a creamy, tangy note that brightens every bite without overwhelming the dish.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Serve chilled sparkling water with fresh lemon slices for a refreshing drink that complements the flavors without overshadowing them.

Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière Variations

Feel free to play with flavors and ingredients to make this classic tourtière uniquely yours!

Pork Substitute: Replace ground beef with ground pork for a slightly sweeter, richer taste that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Veggie Boost: Add diced vegetables like carrots and mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. They’ll add a delightful texture to your filling.
Quinoa Twist: For a gluten-free option, omit the potatoes and use cooked quinoa instead, providing a boost of protein and a delightful texture.
Herb-Infused: Swap fresh parsley for fresh thyme or rosemary to elevate the aromatic profile and give a fresh twist to your tourtière.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat, making each bite extra exciting.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in grated cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, to the filling for an ooey-gooey surprise within the savory layers.
Savory Mustard Glaze: Before sealing the top crust, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the filling for a tangy kick that complements the meat perfectly.

For more delicious beef ideas, consider whipping up Sticky Beef Noodles or give Dutch Oven Beef a try for hearty, comforting meals. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière!

Expert Tips for Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière

Cool the Filling: Make sure to cool the beef filling before adding it to the crust to avoid a soggy bottom in your tourtière.
Don’t Overfill: Avoid common spillage by leaving a little space when filling the pie; this ensures the crust can seal properly.
Brush the Crust: For a beautifully golden crust, brush the top with a beaten egg wash before baking, enhancing both appearance and flavor.
Customize with Veggies: Feel free to incorporate vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition in your Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière.
Filling Alternatives: Experiment with different meats—ground pork or turkey can be delicious substitutes, making this dish versatile for everyone!

Storage Tips for Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière

Room Temperature: If serving immediately, let the pie cool for about 30 minutes before slicing; consume within a few hours for the best taste and texture.
Fridge: Leftovers can be stored tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to restore flakiness.
Freezer: You can freeze unbaked Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière by wrapping it tightly in plastic and aluminum foil for up to 3 months; bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: For baked tourtière, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, until heated through; cover with foil to prevent the crust from getting too dark.

Make Ahead Options

These Quebec-Style Beef Tourtières are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pies up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow the filling to cool completely before refrigerating it in an airtight container. To keep the crust flaky and fresh, wrap the unbaked pie tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and brush the top with an egg wash as you pop them in. For even better results, you can freeze the assembled tourtière for up to 3 months; just bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Enjoy the convenience of having a cozy, hearty meal ready to go!

Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ground beef for tourtière?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for ground beef with a bit of fat, like 80/20 or 85/15. This balance keeps the filling juicy and flavorful. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or pork can work well too. Just make sure to season well to enhance the taste!

How should I store leftover tourtière?
Very! Store any leftover Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière tightly wrapped in the fridge, where it will stay delicious for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to revive its crisp crust and warm filling.

Can I freeze tourtière, and if so, how?
Of course! To freeze your unbaked Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be safely stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it straight from the freezer into the preheated oven, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time for a beautifully cooked pie.

What if my pie crust becomes soggy?
Ah, we all dread sogginess! To avoid this, ensure your filling is fully cooled before adding it to the pastry. Additionally, brushing the bottom crust with egg wash before filling it can create a barrier that helps prevent moisture absorption. If you find your crust soggy after baking, a quick blast in the oven can help restore some crispiness.

Is this recipe allergy-friendly?
Yes, indeed! If you’re concerned about allergies, you can easily customize the Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière. For a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free pastry crust. Just be mindful of any specific spice allergies and make adjustments as needed—substituting fresh herbs for spices can provide great flavor without any risk.

Can I substitute any ingredients for a healthier version?
Definitely! To give your Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière a healthier twist, consider using lean ground meat like turkey or chicken. You can also replace the diced potatoes with cooked quinoa or brown rice for a lighter filling. Adding more veggies like carrots or spinach not only boosts nutrition but also adds delightful flavor and texture!