If you have ever wanted to bring a slice of Italian home comfort into your kitchen, this Pizza Rustica Recipe is the perfect place to start. This savory pie is packed with layers of rich cheeses and cured meats, all enveloped in a tender, golden crust. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the harmonious blend of creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, and flavorful provolone combined with the unmistakable savory bite of salami and prosciutto. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this pie offers both tradition and a burst of hearty flavor that will quickly become a beloved classic in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Pizza Rustica Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role: from the flaky crust that holds everything together to the mix of cheeses and meats that create layers of irresistible taste and texture.
- Pie crust sheets: Two sheets of pie crust or your favorite homemade pastry dough form the golden, flaky shell.
- Ricotta cheese (1 lb): Drained well, it brings creamy richness and moisture to the filling.
- Shredded mozzarella (1 cup): Melted mozzarella provides stretch and mild creaminess.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a tangy, salty punch that brightens the filling.
- Cubed provolone cheese (1/2 cup): Offers a slightly smoky undertone and a nice bite.
- Chopped salami (1/2 cup): Gives smoky, spicy depth to the savory pie.
- Chopped prosciutto or ham (1/2 cup): Brings a tender, salty contrast to the salami.
- Large eggs (4): Helps bind the filling into a firm, sliceable consistency.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just enough spice to enhance flavors.
- Egg for egg wash: Used to brush the crust for a shiny golden finish.
How to Make Pizza Rustica Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This ensures the oven is perfectly hot for a crisp crust from the start. Line a 9-inch pie dish with one sheet of your pie dough, pressing it gently but thoroughly into the edges to create the base for your filling.
Step 2: Combine the Filling Ingredients
In a large bowl, blend together the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone cheeses with the chopped salami and prosciutto or ham. Crack in four large eggs and season with black pepper. Stir everything until the mixture is uniform and you can see the delightful assortment of meats and cheeses blending beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour your cheesy meat mixture into the prepared crust, smoothing the top for even cooking. Carefully cover with the second sheet of pie dough. Seal the edges well by pinching or crimping them together to keep the filling secure during baking. Don’t forget to cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape, preventing sogginess in the filling.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the top crust with a beaten egg; this little step gives the pie that irresistible golden-brown sheen. Place the pie in the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is richly golden and the filling has set firm but still looks irresistibly moist inside.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Removing the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing is essential. This resting time lets the filling solidify just enough to slice cleanly while maintaining a warm, comforting texture. The pizza rustica is absolutely wonderful served warm or even at room temperature.
How to Serve Pizza Rustica Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of freshly chopped parsley or a light sprinkle of cracked black pepper can elevate your slice visually and add a fresh note against the richness of the filling. Consider adding a few slices of cherry tomatoes on the side for a splash of color and acidity that brightens each bite.
Side Dishes
Pizza rustica pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, or a bowl of marinated olives also complement this hearty pie perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this Pizza Rustica Recipe at a gathering, consider slicing it into small squares or wedges as part of a rustic antipasto board with cured meats, cheese, olives, and fresh bread. It’s also excellent wrapped in parchment and tied with kitchen twine for a charming picnic addition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pizza rustica can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Keeping it well-wrapped ensures the crust stays tender rather than drying out. It’s a perfect make-ahead dish for busy days or unexpected guests.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the whole baked pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your pizza rustica in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until hot throughout and the crust regains some crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy and the filling less appealing.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and provolone are traditional choices, you can experiment with cheeses like fontina or gouda for unique flavors. Just be mindful of moisture content to keep the filling balanced.
What if I don’t have pie crust? Can I make it from scratch?
Yes, homemade pastry dough works wonderfully and adds a personal touch. A simple mixture of flour, butter, salt, and cold water will yield a flaky crust that’s perfect for this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! You can omit the salami and prosciutto and substitute with grilled vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant, along with extra cheese or flavorful herbs to maintain the savory profile.
How do I know when the pizza rustica is fully cooked?
The crust should be golden brown and firm to the touch, and the filling should be set without any jiggle. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean or with only melted cheese clinging.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
You can mix the filling a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just add the eggs right before assembly for best texture, and bring the filling to room temperature before baking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about making a Pizza Rustica Recipe at home—it’s a heartfelt nod to tradition wrapped in warm, cheesy comfort that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you whip it up for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this savory pie is sure to fill your home with irresistible aromas and fill your table with smiles. Take the leap and try this recipe; your taste buds are going to thank you!
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Pizza Rustica Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (excluding cooling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Pizza Rustica is a traditional Italian savory pie, filled with a rich and creamy mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone cheeses, and assorted cured meats like salami and prosciutto. Baked inside a flaky pie crust, this hearty dish is perfect for gatherings and serves as a delicious main course or appetizer, enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 2 sheets of pie crust or homemade pastry dough
Filling
- 1 lb ricotta cheese (drained)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cubed provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped salami
- 1/2 cup chopped prosciutto or ham
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Egg Wash
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the Pizza Rustica evenly.
- Prepare Pie Dish: Line a 9-inch pie dish with one sheet of pie dough, pressing it gently into the edges and up the sides to form the base crust.
- Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the drained ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, cubed provolone, chopped salami, chopped prosciutto or ham, 4 eggs, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Fill Pie Crust: Pour the prepared filling mixture into the pie crust-lined dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
- Top with Second Crust: Place the second sheet of pie dough over the filling. Seal the edges by pressing and crimping them together, then cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat one egg and brush it over the top crust to give the pie a beautiful golden brown finish.
- Bake: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is fully set and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the Pizza Rustica cool for at least 30 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavors and texture.
Notes
- Draining the ricotta cheese removes excess moisture, which helps prevent a soggy crust.
- Allowing the pie to cool before slicing helps set the filling for clean slices.
- You can substitute prosciutto with ham or other cured meats depending on availability and preference.
- Use homemade pie crust or store-bought sheets of pastry dough for convenience.
- Leftover Pizza Rustica can be refrigerated and served cold or reheated gently in the oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
