Non-Vegetarian Canadian Recipes
Browse 21 non-vegetarian Canadian recipes — with photos, cook times and nutrition. Find an easy non-vegetarian Canadian dish for tonight.
BeaverTails
Golden, crispy, and irresistibly indulgent, BeaverTails are Canada’s beloved fried dough pastry, stretched thin and fried to a delicate puff before being crowned with sweet toppings. The dough yields a light, airy crunch that gives way to a tender interior, while classic finishes like cinnamon sugar, Nutella, or maple glaze amplify the warmth of spice, richness, and woodsy sweetness. This simple yet nostalgic treat is worth making for its nostalgic charm and versatility—whether as a quick breakfast, a dessert, or a shareable snack. With a few pantry staples and a hot oil bath, it transforms into a golden canvas for creativity.
Canadian Butter Tarts
Hey there, folks! Today, I'm gonna share with you my take on the classic Canadian Butter Tarts recipe. Get ready for a sweet and gooey treat that will leave you wanting more! So, here's what you need: Shortcrust Pastry, Eggs, Muscovado Sugar, Raisins, Vanilla Extract, Butter, Single Cream, and Walnuts. Now, preheat your oven and roll out that pastry – not too thick, not too thin. Cut out those rounds and line your tart tins. Pro tip: if you don't have the right tin, no worries, you can always make a few extra shallow tarts! Now, here comes my little anecdote: one time, I forgot to add the vanilla extract to the mix, and let me tell you, it just wasn't the same. So, don't forget the vanilla, folks! While your tarts are baking, make sure to keep an eye on them – they can go from golden to burnt real quick. And here's a unique tip for you: sprinkle some extra walnuts on top before baking for a crunchy twist! Once they're out of the oven, let them cool a bit before indulging. Whether you enjoy them warm or cold, these butter tarts are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy, my friends!
Poutine
Crisp golden fries, squeaky cheese curds, and rich beef gravy come together in this Canadian classic, delivering a perfect balance of textures and flavors—crunchy, creamy, and deeply savory all at once. The dish is worth making for its irresistible combination of comfort and indulgence, a hearty mashup that turns simple ingredients into something truly satisfying. With just a few key components, it’s an easy yet impressive meal that feels like a cozy hug in every bite.
Breakfast Potatoes
Hey there, breakfast lovers! Today, I want to share with you my favorite recipe for Breakfast Potatoes. Trust me, this dish is worth waking up early for! One thing I learned the hard way is to always freeze your bacon before chopping it. It makes the process a breeze and saves you from struggling with slippery slices (you can thank me later!). Now, onto the recipe: start by cutting your potatoes into squares and soaking them in water to keep them fresh. Here's a little tip from me to you: sprinkle a pinch of allspice before serving. It adds a unique twist that will surprise your taste buds in the best way possible! Trust me, it's a game-changer. Picture this: crispy potatoes, savory bacon, and a touch of maple sweetness all in one bite. It's like a party in your mouth! So go ahead, whip up a batch of these Breakfast Potatoes and start your day with a delicious bang. Enjoy!
Classic Tourtière
Classic Tourtière is a hearty Canadian meat pie that delivers deep, savory warmth with every bite. The filling—rich ground beef and pork spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and allspice—simmers into a fragrant, slightly sweet-savory blend, while the flaky pastry crust adds a satisfying contrast. Worth making for its nostalgic appeal and ability to bring people together, this dish is perfect for cozy gatherings or a taste of tradition.
Date squares
These chewy, layered date squares are a beloved Canadian classic, balancing sweet, caramelized dates with a buttery, toasted oat crumble. The filling—simmered until thick and glossy—pairs perfectly with the crisp, golden edges of the oat topping, offering a satisfying contrast in every bite. Worth making for its nostalgic warmth and effortless elegance, it’s just as at home at a holiday spread as it is with a quiet afternoon coffee.
Figgy Duff
Figgy Duff is a beloved Canadian dessert that delivers cozy comfort in every bite. This steamed pudding blends warm spices like ginger, allspice, and cinnamon with tender raisins, creating a soft, moist crumb that’s rich with molasses and brown sugar. The dish is traditionally wrapped in a cloth and simmered until fluffy, then served with a drizzle of custard or a pat of butter. Worth making for its nostalgic charm and the way its caramelized edges and spiced sweetness evoke the essence of home.
Flapper Pie
Flapper Pie is a nostalgic Canadian classic, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich vanilla custard filling, and a cloud-like meringue topping that’s lightly toasted to golden perfection. The contrast of textures—crisp crust, velvety custard, and airy meringue—makes each bite satisfyingly balanced, while the warm notes of cinnamon in the crust add subtle depth. Worth making for its creamy, comforting layers and the way it evokes a sense of tradition, this pie is a showstopper that’s as delightful to eat as it is to share.
Hodge Podge
This creamy, comforting Hodge Podge is a rustic medley of tender vegetables bathed in a velvety sauce of milk and heavy cream, brightened with fresh dill and chives. The dish strikes a perfect balance—soft potatoes and carrots give way to crisp-tender green beans and sweet peas, all tied together by a rich, lightly seasoned broth. It’s the kind of simple, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug, ideal for chilly evenings or lazy weekend suppers. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, it delivers maximum coziness in every spoonful.
Jam jam cookies
These rich, buttery cookies are a Canadian staple, filled with a generous swirl of fruit preserves for a sweet-tart contrast that melts on the tongue. The dough, infused with molasses and vanilla, bakes into a tender yet sturdy base, while the jam oozes into a glossy, jammy center—each bite a perfect balance of softness and texture. A classic for a reason, these cookies are worth making for their nostalgic charm and effortless elegance, turning a simple bake into a moment of pure indulgence.
Jiggs Dinner
Jiggs Dinner is a hearty, soul-warming classic that blends tender salt beef, creamy split peas, and root vegetables into one comforting pot. The dish balances rich, savory depth from the slow-cooked beef with earthy, slightly sweet notes from the peas and vegetables, all held together by a silky broth. Each bite offers a satisfying contrast—soft yet sturdy textures with a deep, layered flavor that only grows richer with time. Worth the effort for its ability to feed a crowd while delivering old-world comfort in every spoonful.
Molasses Baked Beans
Molasses Baked Beans are a rich, slow-cooked dish that marries deep, earthy sweetness with a bright tang—think caramelized onions, smoky bacon, and a glossy glaze of molasses and brown sugar. The beans emerge tender yet slightly firm, their creamy texture balanced by the chewy bite of crispy bacon and the subtle bite of cider vinegar. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a slow-simmered masterpiece that transforms humble ingredients into something deeply satisfying, perfect for feeding a crowd or savoring leftovers straight from the pot.
Montreal Smoked Meat
Montreal Smoked Meat is a revered Canadian classic, prized for its deeply savory, peppery crust and tender, smoky-sweet interior. The dish relies on a meticulously spiced cure—think coriander, mustard seeds, and a touch of brown sugar—balanced by a slow smoke that infuses the brisket with rich, woodsy depth. Served on rye with mustard and pickles, each bite delivers a bold yet harmonious interplay of spice, smoke, and briny tang. Worth the effort for its unmistakable flavor and the way it transforms a simple cut of meat into something legendary.
Nanaimo Bars
Nanaimo Bars are a beloved Canadian dessert layered with a crumbly chocolate base, rich custard filling, and a glossy chocolate top—each bite delivers a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and velvety textures. The base combines cocoa, coconut, and nuts for a toasty depth, while the custard layer offers a smooth, buttery sweetness that contrasts with the bittersweet chocolate glaze. A pinch of salt in the topping elevates the chocolate’s richness without overpowering it, making these bars irresistibly indulgent. Worth every minute of chilling and layering, they’re a showstopper that’s as satisfying to make as it is to devour.
Rappie Pie
Rappie Pie is a hearty Acadian classic, a rustic casserole where tender chicken nestles into layers of creamy, grated potatoes and rich broth. The dish balances earthy caramelized onions with a satisfyingly dense, almost dumpling-like potato texture, while a sprinkle of cheese between layers adds a subtle tang and golden melt. Slow-baked until the top turns a deep, inviting brown, it’s a dish that rewards patience with every forkful. Worth the effort for its comforting depth and the way it transforms simple ingredients into something deeply nourishing.
Saskatoon Pie
Hey there, folks! Today, I'm gonna share with you my take on the classic Saskatoon Pie recipe. Get ready for a mouthwatering treat that will transport you straight to Canada! So, one day I was making this Saskatoon Pie and I accidentally used salted butter instead of unsalted... Let's just say the result was a bit too salty for my liking! Lesson learned: always double-check your ingredients, folks. Here's a little tip for you: when making the pastry, make sure your water is ice-cold. This helps to keep the fat in the dough cold, resulting in a flakier crust. Trust me, it makes all the difference! Now, follow the instructions to make the pastry, but don't forget to have some fun with it! Get your hands dirty and really get in there to mix the fat into the flour. Embrace the mess - that's where the magic happens. Once you've baked your Saskatoon Pie to golden perfection, take a bite and savor the sweet-tart flavor of those Saskatoon berries. It's a true Canadian delight that will have you coming back for more. Enjoy!
Split Pea Soup
Split pea soup is a hearty, velvety classic that delivers deep, earthy sweetness balanced by smoky, savory depth. The slow-cooked split peas melt into a creamy texture, while the ham adds a salty richness that lingers with every spoonful. A touch of smoked paprika elevates the dish with subtle warmth, making it irresistibly comforting. Worth the gentle simmering, this soup is a bowl of pure, unapologetic coziness—perfect for chilly evenings or any day you crave something deeply satisfying.
Sugar Pie
Hey there, sugar pie lovers! Today, I'm sharing with you my take on this classic Canadian dessert. Sure, you could just follow the instructions, but let me tell you about the time I accidentally doubled the butter in this recipe. Let's just say, my guests were slipping into a sugar coma after a slice of that pie! Lesson learned: always double-check your measurements, folks. Now, here's a pro tip for you: before adding the flour, sift it. This little extra step will ensure a smoother batter, without any pesky lumps. So, preheat that oven, grease that pie dish, and let's get baking! And remember, when you cover the rim with aluminum foil, make sure it's not too tight. We want that crust to be golden, not burnt! Enjoy the sweet, creamy goodness of this Sugar Pie. Just like grandma used to make, but maybe with a little less butter. Bon appétit!
Pouding chomeur
Alright folks, today I'm gonna show you how to make a delicious Pouding Chomeur! Trust me, this Canadian dessert is a real treat for your taste buds. So, first things first, in a large bowl, let's cream together the butter and sugar until it's nice and light. Then, add in the eggs and vanilla and give it a good mix. In another bowl, mix together the flour and baking powder. Now for a little personal anecdote - one time, I accidentally used salted butter instead of unsalted in this recipe, and let me tell you, it was not a sweet mistake! So, make sure you use unsalted butter for the best results. And here's a unique tip for you - before pouring the maple syrup over the cake, warm it up a bit to really enhance the flavor. Now, indulge in this Pouding Chomeur with its luscious maple syrup sauce over moist cake, and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!
Pate Chinois
Alright, folks, let's talk about Pate Chinois! A delicious mix of potatoes, minced beef, and creamed corn that will warm your soul. Now, here's a little story for you: one time, I accidentally used sugar instead of salt in my mashed potatoes. Let's just say it was not a flavor combination anyone enjoyed! Pro tip: Want to add a little kick to your Pate Chinois? Try sprinkling some cayenne pepper into the minced beef for a spicy twist! So, start by cooking those potatoes until they're nice and tender. And don't forget to add a generous amount of butter for that creamy goodness. Oh, and when you're mashing those potatoes, don't be afraid to leave them a bit chunky for some extra texture. Once your Pate Chinois is assembled and ready to bake, pop it in the oven and get ready for a cozy, comforting meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy!
Timbits
Alright folks, today I'm gonna show you how to make some scrumptious Timbits, the Canadian classic! First off, sift together your dry ingredients. Mix up your wet ingredients and blend them into the dry until you've got a smooth batter. Now, drop spoonfuls of that goodness into hot oil - not too hot now, we don't want any kitchen fires! Now, for a little tip from yours truly: when your Timbits are golden brown and ready to come out of the oil, use a slotted spoon to gently scoop them up. Don't be like me that one time I got too excited and burned my fingers trying to fish them out! Ah, speaking of burning things... I once forgot to check the oil temperature and ended up with some extra crispy Timbits. Let's just say they were more suited for hockey pucks than for snacking! And there you have it, folks! Your homemade Timbits are ready to be dusted with some icing sugar and devoured. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or just a cheeky snack. Enjoy!