Description
A savory Italian Easter Pie, also known as Pizza Rustica, filled with a rich blend of cheeses, cured meats, and eggs, all baked inside a golden, flaky crust—perfect for Easter celebrations or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded or diced provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 large eggs (for filling)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 8 oz mixed cured meats (prosciutto, salami, capicola), diced
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add eggs and cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Divide into two portions, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- For the filling, mix ricotta, mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, eggs, black pepper, and Italian seasoning in a large bowl until well combined.
- Fold in diced cured meats.
- Roll out one portion of dough and fit into a greased pie dish.
- Spoon filling evenly into the crust.
- Roll out second portion of dough and place over filling. Seal and crimp edges, then cut slits in the top for steam to escape.
- Brush top with beaten egg.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 60–70 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
- Cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Add sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
- Use hot capicola or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Part-skim ricotta and reduced-fat cheeses make a lighter pie.
- Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Enjoy warm for a softer texture, or cold for a firmer slice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
