There’s something incredibly special about gathering around the table and cutting into a golden, fragrant Tourtière. This French-Canadian meat pie is rich in tradition and even richer in flavor, boasting a savory blend of pork, beef, fragrant spices, and tender potatoes, all enclosed in a flaky, buttery crust. Whether you’re making Tourtière for a festive holiday or simply to bring warmth to a chilly winter’s night, this dish captures the heart and soul of comfort food in every delicious slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making an irresistible Tourtière is all about a handful of classic, unfussy ingredients that come together to create something far beyond the sum of their parts. Each plays a starring role, from the aromatic blend of spices to the hearty meats and, of course, a perfectly crisp crust to seal in all that goodness.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Sautéing the filling in olive oil lends a silky texture and depth of flavor right from the start.
- Ground pork (1 pound): The main protein, giving Tourtière its signature juicy richness.
- Ground beef (1/2 pound): Adds a hearty edge and balances the flavor profile beautifully.
- Onion, finely chopped (1 medium): Brings a subtle sweetness and classic aromatic quality.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): A must for earthy, savory undertones—don’t skip it!
- Potatoes, peeled, boiled, and mashed (2 medium): Act as the ultimate binder, making each bite tender and hearty.
- Beef or chicken broth (1/2 cup): Moistens the filling and unifies all the flavors.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds a woodsy, fragrant pop that’s classic in Tourtière.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers intriguing warmth and a cozy aroma.
- Ground cloves (1/4 teaspoon): Just a touch infuses a uniquely festive note.
- Allspice (1/4 teaspoon): Ties the spice blend together with mild sweetness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every component, keeping flavors bright and balanced.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Lends just the right amount of kick to each mouthful.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): A burst of fresh color and brightness at the end.
- Pie crusts (2, homemade or store-bought): The flaky package that holds everything together; use your favorite or an easy store-bought version.
- Egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water: The classic egg wash gives your Tourtière a handsome, glossy finish.
How to Make Tourtière
Step 1: Sauté the Meats and Aromatics
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab your largest skillet and warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground pork, ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Sauté everything together, breaking up the meat as you go, until it’s browned and the onions are meltingly soft—this takes around eight minutes. The aroma alone will have everyone peeking into your kitchen!
Step 2: Build the Filling
Sprinkle in your mashed potatoes, pour in the broth, and shower the mixture with thyme, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Stir gently but thoroughly so the potatoes melt into the meats and spices—that’s what gives your Tourtière its comforting, signature texture. Let it cook for an extra five minutes until thick, fragrant, and cohesive.
Step 3: Prepare the Crust
While your filling cools slightly, line a 9-inch pie plate with your first pie crust. Whether it’s homemade or your favorite from the store, make sure it’s fitted snugly into all edges. Smooth in the meat filling, spreading it all the way to the edges for an even slice in every forkful.
Step 4: Top and Seal
Drape the second crust on top, then trim any overhang and crimp the edges together—get creative with the seal for a patterned effect! Cut a few small slits in the top to let steam escape, and then brush the entire surface with the egg wash for the traditional golden finish that makes Tourtière so inviting.
Step 5: Bake and Rest
Pop your pie into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the crust is perfectly golden-brown and irresistible. When it’s done, allow your Tourtière to rest for about 10 minutes before you slice in—this helps the filling settle for neat, generous servings.
How to Serve Tourtière
Garnishes
A Tourtière truly shines with a few simple garnishes. A sprig of fresh parsley, a dollop of tangy ketchup, or even a spoonful of homemade cranberry chutney brings bright color and a welcome burst of flavor. Each adds a personal touch and balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This savory pie plays well with light, fresh accompaniments. Try serving Tourtière alongside a crisp green salad dressed in zesty vinaigrette, bright pickled beets, or even buttery peas for a classic family-style meal that won’t weigh you down. These sides are perfect for soaking up any extra juices!
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive presentation, cut the pie into wedges and plate each slice with colorful relishes and pickles on the side. Or, if you’re hosting, bake individual mini Tourtières in ramekins or muffin tins—everyone loves their own personal pie! Sprinkle each with fresh herbs just before serving for extra flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Tourtière stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply cover the pie dish tightly with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. Refrigerated, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it a perfect option for easy homemade lunches or suppers later in the week.
Freezing
Planning ahead? Tourtière freezes very well. Once cooled, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or transfer individual slices to freezer-safe bags. Your frozen Tourtière will keep for up to two months. Just think—future you will thank you for this cozy, ready-to-reheat comfort meal!
Reheating
To reheat, bake leftover slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or until hot all the way through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you can, since the oven revives that coveted flakiness that makes Tourtière so crave-worthy.
FAQs
Can I use only one kind of meat in Tourtière?
Absolutely! While the blend of pork and beef offers traditional flavor, you can stick with just one if you prefer—ground pork brings juiciness, while all-beef makes for a slightly leaner, heartier version. You could even try ground turkey for a lighter spin.
Can I make Tourtière ahead of time?
Definitely. Assemble your pie up to a day in advance, cover it, and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. It’s a lifesaver for holiday meal prepping!
What’s the secret to a flaky pie crust?
The secret is cold ingredients and minimal handling. If making your own, keep your butter or shortening chilled and work quickly—this helps create those irresistible, tender layers that seal in the Tourtière’s savory filling.
Are there vegetarian versions of Tourtière?
You bet! Swap the ground meats for hearty lentils or finely chopped mushrooms, and use vegetable broth. The same spices and mashed potatoes will give you all the classic comfort and flavor—no meat required.
Why are there sweet spices in Tourtière?
The blend of cinnamon, cloves, and allspice pays homage to the French-Canadian roots of the dish and creates that warm, unique flavor profile Tourtière is famous for. These spices add a cozy, festive note that sets it apart from other meat pies.
Final Thoughts
Nothing brings people together quite like a homemade Tourtière. Whether you’re keeping a family tradition alive or trying something new, this savory, spiced pie is sure to win hearts. Gather your loved ones, slice in, and let the comforting flavors and joyful conversation begin!
Print
Tourtière Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Tourtière is a traditional French-Canadian meat pie that is often served during holiday celebrations. This hearty dish features a flavorful filling of ground pork, beef, and aromatic spices, encased in a flaky pie crust.
Ingredients
Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 medium potatoes peeled, boiled, and mashed
- 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Crust:
- 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water for egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook pork, beef, onion, and garlic until browned. Add mashed potatoes, broth, thyme, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, salt, pepper, and parsley. Cook until thick.
- Assemble the pie: Fit one pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate. Spoon in the filling, top with the second crust, seal edges, and cut slits. Brush with egg wash.
- Bake: Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden brown. Let rest before serving.
Notes
- Tourtière is a festive dish enjoyed during Christmas and New Year’s in French-Canadian homes.
- Pair with ketchup, cranberry chutney, or a side salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pie)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 460 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
