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Trang chủ » Pizza Rustica – Italian Easter Pie with Meats & Cheese

Pizza Rustica – Italian Easter Pie with Meats & Cheese

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Pizza Rustica is a traditional Italian Easter pie that combines a rich, savory filling of meats and cheeses inside a flaky crust.

Known in some regions as “Pizza Gaina” or “Easter Pie,” it’s the perfect make-ahead dish for spring celebrations and family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love Pizza Rustica

Packed with Flavor: Salty cured meats and creamy cheeses in every bite.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day.

Impressive Presentation: A golden crust and layered filling make a stunning centerpiece.

Traditional Favorite: A nostalgic Easter staple in many Italian-American households.

Feeds a Crowd: Rich and hearty—perfect for serving a big table.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

All-Purpose Flour: For making the homemade crust.

Eggs: Used in both the dough and the filling.

Ricotta Cheese: The creamy base of the filling.

Mozzarella & Provolone: Melty and flavorful.

Parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty finish.

Italian Meats: Prosciutto, soppressata, capicola, or salami.

Black Pepper: For seasoning the filling.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Drain Ricotta Well: Too much moisture will make the filling watery.

Use Cold Butter: For the flakiest pie crust.

Chill the Dough: Resting helps prevent shrinkage while baking.

Don’t Overfill: Leave room to seal the crust edges.

Let It Cool: Allows the pie to firm up before slicing.

How to Make Pizza Rustica

Step 1: Make the Dough

Combine flour, salt, butter, and shortening.

Pulse in a food processor until crumbly.

Add eggs and cold water until dough forms. Chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, diced meats, eggs, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Roll and Fill

Roll out half the dough and line a deep-dish pie plate.

Fill with the cheese and meat mixture.

Step 4: Top and Seal

Roll out remaining dough and place on top. Seal and crimp edges.

Cut steam vents and brush with egg wash.

Step 5: Bake

Bake at 350°F for about 60–75 minutes until golden brown.

Cool at least 2 hours before serving.

What to Serve It With

A simple arugula salad

Roasted asparagus or green beans

A light red wine like Chianti

Pickled vegetables or olives

Variations / Substitutions

Add Hard-Boiled Eggs: For a traditional regional touch.

Use Store-Bought Crust: For convenience.

Try Different Cheeses: Fontina, Swiss, or caciocavallo.

Make Mini Versions: Use muffin tins for individual servings.

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze slices for up to 2 months.

Reheat: Warm slices in a 300°F oven until heated through.

FAQs

Is Pizza Rustica served hot or cold?
Traditionally served at room temperature, but also delicious warm or cold.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! It’s even better the next day.

What meats are best to use?
A variety like salami, ham, prosciutto, and soppressata works great.

Can I use premade pie crust?
Absolutely, to save time.

Do I have to use all the cheeses listed?
No, but a mix gives the best texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Pizza Rustica is more than a savory pie—it’s a celebration of tradition, family, and flavor.

Whether you enjoy it for Easter brunch, a spring picnic, or just because, it brings people together around the table with every hearty slice.

Pizza Rustica

Quick & Simple Meals
A traditional Italian Easter pie made with a flaky crust, creamy ricotta, cheeses, and savory cured meats. This hearty dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, brunch, or any special occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 40 minutes mins
Cook Time 1 hour hr
Cooling Time 2 hours hrs
Total Time 3 hours hrs 40 minutes mins
Servings 5
Calories 410 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Crust:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3 –4 tbsp ice water

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese well drained
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella
  • 1 cup diced provolone
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 cup diced Italian meats prosciutto, salami, etc.
  • 4 large eggs
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions
 

  • Make crust and chill 30 minutes.
  • Mix all filling ingredients in a large bowl.
  • Roll bottom crust and line deep-dish pie pan.
  • Fill with ricotta and meat mixture.
  • Add top crust, seal edges, and cut vents.
  • See full steps with tips & photos → https://mischacrossing.com/pizza-rustica/

Notes

  • Be sure to drain ricotta thoroughly to prevent a watery filling.
  • You can use a variety of Italian meats like capicola or soppressata for extra depth.
  • This pie is best served at room temperature or gently warmed—perfect for make-ahead entertaining.

 

Suggest Another Dish:

  • Easter Ham Pie – Savory Italian Recipe for Spring Gatherings
  • Pizza Rustica (Pizzagaina) – Traditional Italian Easter Pie Recipe
  • Pizza Gain (Pizzagaina) – Traditional Italian Easter Meat Pie Recipe
  • Easter Ham Pie – Savory Italian Recipe for Spring Gatherings
  • Vegan Pizza Rustica – Plant-Based Italian Easter Pie Recipe
  • Pizzagaina (Italian Easter Ham Pie) – Authentic Savory Holiday Recipe
Comfort Food Easter Cake Easter Recipes Italian Recipes Pie Recipes pizza rustica
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