Pizza Rustica Recipe

Discover the rich, savory delight of Pizza Rustica Recipe, a traditional Italian Easter pie that's more like a cheese-and-meat-filled quiche than your typical pizza. This hearty, crowd-pleasing dish combines a buttery crust with a generous filling of Italian cheeses, cured meats, and eggs for a truly memorable meal.

Why You'll Love This Pizza Rustica Recipe

Pizza Rustica, also known as Italian Easter Pie, has been gracing holiday tables for generations. This beloved recipe transforms simple ingredients into an impressive dish that's perfect for special occasions or weekend family gatherings. While traditionally served at Easter, this versatile pie is delicious year-round and makes an excellent addition to any brunch or dinner spread.

Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Pizza Rustica Recipe
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Storage Instructions
• Recipe Variations
• Equipment For Pizza Rustica Recipe
• Top Tip
• FAQ
• Related
• Pairing
• Pizza Rustica Recipe

Ingredients

the Rustic Pizza Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 sticks (1 cup) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 4 large eggs
• 2-4 tablespoons ice water

the Filling:

• 2 pounds whole milk ricotta, drained
• 1 pound mozzarella cheese, diced
• 8 ounces Pecorino Romano, grated
• 6 large eggs
• ½ pound prosciutto, diced
• ½ pound Italian salami, diced
• ¼ pound mortadella, diced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Combine flour and salt in a large bowl or food processor.
2. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Beat 4 eggs lightly and add to the flour mixture.
4. Pulse or mix until dough just starts to come together, adding ice water one tablespoon at a time if needed.
5. Divide dough into two portions (⅔ for bottom crust, ⅓ for top).
6. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Making the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano.
2. Beat in 6 eggs one at a time until well incorporated.
3. Fold in diced prosciutto, salami, and mortadella.
4. Add chopped parsley and black pepper, mixing until evenly distributed.

Assembling and Baking

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the larger portion of dough and fit into a 9-inch springform pan, letting excess hang over edges.
3. Pour the filling mixture into the crust.
4. Roll out remaining dough and cover the pie, crimping edges to seal.
5. Cut several small slits in the top crust for ventilation.
6. Brush top with egg wash.
7. Bake for 75-90 minutes until golden brown and filling is set.
8. Cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Storage Instructions

Store Pizza Rustica in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can serve it cold or reheat individual slices in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. The pie can also be frozen for up to 3 months when wrapped tightly in foil.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meats and add sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, and artichoke hearts
• Lighter Option: Use part-skim cheeses and turkey-based cold cuts
• Regional Variation: Add fresh basil and sun-dried tomatoes for a Neapolitan twist

Equipment For Pizza Rustica Recipe

• 9-inch springform pan
• Rolling pin
• Large mixing bowls
• Food processor (optional but recommended)
• Pastry brush
• Sharp knife for slicing meats

FAQ

Ready to wow your guests? This Pizza Rustica brings authentic Italian flavors right to your table. Whether for Easter celebration or a special family gathering, this rich, cheese-filled pie is sure to become a new tradition. Give it a try and share your experience in the comments below. Buon appetito!

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Pairing

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