Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière: A Hearty, Flavorful Pie Recipe
Quebec-Style Beef Tourtière is a hearty and flavorful meat pie that combines ground beef and pork with aromatic spices, encased in a flaky homemade pastry crust. This traditional French Canadian dish is perfect for sharing and makes a comforting meal during colder months.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French Canadian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork (optional, can use all beef)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For the Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6–8 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- Make the crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut the cold butter into the flour using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two portions, flatten each into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the filling: In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and pork (if using), and cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Cook the filling: Stir in the beef broth, water, tomato paste, cinnamon, cloves, thyme, and sage. Bring to a simmer, and cook for about 10 minutes, until the mixture thickens and becomes aromatic. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley (if using). Let the filling cool slightly.
- Assemble the tourtière: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one portion of dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Place it into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom. Fill with the cooled meat mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Top the pie: Roll out the second portion of dough into a circle large enough to cover the pie. Place the dough over the meat filling and trim any excess. Pinch the edges to seal the pie and cut a few small slits in the top for ventilation.
- Bake the pie: Bake the tourtière for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp. If desired, brush the top of the pie with a beaten egg wash before baking for an extra golden finish.
- Serve and enjoy: Allow the tourtière to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes or a simple salad.
Notes
- You can make the pie crust ahead of time and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Using a blend of ground beef and pork adds extra flavor and moisture to the filling, but all beef can be used if preferred.
- Brushing the pie with an egg wash before baking will give a shiny, golden crust.
- Letting the filling cool before assembling helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
- Serve with a simple green salad or pickled vegetables to balance the richness.
Keywords: Quebec tourtière, beef tourtière, French Canadian meat pie, savory pie, traditional tourtière, meat pie recipe
