Name: Pizza Rustica Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 sturdy yet flaky pie crust dough (enough for 9-inch pan, top crust optional); Salami, diced (about 100g or 3.5 oz); Prosciutto, diced (about 100g or 3.5 oz); Mozzarella, diced (about 150g or 5 oz); Ricotta cheese (about 100g or 3.5 oz); Grated Parmesan cheese (about 50g or 1.75 oz); 5 large eggs; Fresh herbs (such as 2 tbsp chopped parsley or basil); Salt (to taste, about 1 tsp); Black pepper (to taste, about ½ tsp)

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Impress guests with our classic Pizza Rustica Recipe, a savory Italian pie filled with meats, cheeses, and eggs that perfectly blends rich flavors and a satisfying texture. This traditional dish offers a hearty and comforting experience, bringing a warm taste of Italy right into your kitchen. Whether it’s for a festive occasion or a family meal, this recipe delivers depth, tradition, and a delicious story in every bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A burst of authentic flavor: Combines cured meats and cheeses for an irresistible savory pie.
Rich in texture: The creamy egg custard melds ingredients perfectly inside a tender crust.
Perfect for celebrations: Its festive and impressive appearance makes it a showstopper on any table.
Versatile and adaptable: Customize with your favorite meats, cheeses, or vegetables.
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance to save time on busy days or gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients are straightforward but essential for capturing the true essence of a Pizza Rustica Recipe. Each component adds its own unique flavor, with the meats bringing savory depth, cheeses lending creamy richness, and eggs setting everything into a luscious custard.

Pie crust: A sturdy yet flaky dough to hold all fillings together.
Salami and prosciutto: Classic Italian cured meats for authentic taste.
Mozzarella and ricotta cheese: Creamy cheeses that melt into the filling perfectly.
Grated Parmesan: Adds a nutty, salty finish to the filling.
Eggs: The binding agent that creates a custard-like texture inside the pie.
Fresh herbs: Such as parsley or basil to brighten and balance flavors.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the components’ best qualities.

Variations for Pizza Rustica Recipe

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to tailor according to dietary preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different meats, cheeses, or even vegetarian options to make it your own.

Vegetarian version: Replace meats with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and artichokes for a veggie-packed pie.
Spicy twist: Add hot soppressata or red pepper flakes to introduce a kick of heat.
Gluten-free crust: Use a gluten-free pie dough to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing texture.
Additional vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or caramelized onions for added flavor and color.
Cheese swaps: Experiment with fontina, provolone, or asiago for unique cheesy layers.

Pizza Rustica Recipe That Brings Italian Tradition Home

How to Make Pizza Rustica Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by rolling out your pie dough to fit a 9-inch springform pan or standard pie dish. Ensure even thickness for a sturdy crust that holds the dense filling. Press dough into the pan and trim excess, setting aside the top crust if using a double crust.

Step 2: Chop and Mix Fillings

Dice the salami, prosciutto, and cheeses into small, consistent pieces. In a large bowl, combine the meats, mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and herbs. This mix will create layers of rich flavor distributed throughout the pie.

Step 3: Whisk Eggs and Season

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, and pepper until well blended. This mixture will bind the filling into a cohesive custard when baked.

Step 4: Assemble the Filling

Pour the egg mixture over the meat and cheese blend, folding gently to combine everything evenly without breaking the cheese too much. This step ensures every bite is perfectly creamy and flavorful.

Step 5: Fill the Crust and Add Top Layer

Transfer the filling into the prepared crust, pressing gently to fill every corner. If using a double crust, cover the pie, sealing edges tightly and cutting small slits on top for steam to escape.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake the Pizza Rustica Recipe at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes until the crust is golden and the interior is set like a firm custard. Let it cool slightly before slicing to ensure clean cuts and perfect texture.

Pro Tips for Making Pizza Rustica Recipe

Use room temperature eggs: Helps combine the filling more smoothly for a consistent custard.
Don’t overmix filling: Gently fold ingredients to keep cheese texture intact within the custard.
Chill dough before rolling: Prevents shrinking and keeps the crust flaky.
Use a springform pan: Makes removing the pie easier and preserves its shape beautifully.
Let it rest before serving: Allows flavors to meld and filling to set, making slicing easier.

How to Serve Pizza Rustica Recipe

Garnishes

Top slices with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance the savory flavors and add a fresh, herbal finish.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables to balance the richness of the pie.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice into neat wedges and place on a wooden platter with a variety of olives and marinated artichokes for a rustic Italian antipasto spread that invites sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Pizza Rustica tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, preserving moisture and flavor.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the fully cooled pie in foil and plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore the crust’s crispness and warm the filling evenly without drying it out.

FAQs

What is Pizza Rustica?

Pizza Rustica is a traditional Italian savory pie packed with a mixture of cured meats, cheeses, and eggs baked in a pastry crust, typically served during holidays and special occasions.

Can I make Pizza Rustica Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the cured meats with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes to create a delicious vegetarian version.

Is Pizza Rustica served hot or cold?

It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a flexible dish for various meal settings or celebrations.

What type of cheese works best in Pizza Rustica?

Traditional recipes use a mix of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan for creaminess and flavor, but you can also experiment with provolone or fontina for different tastes.

How long does Pizza Rustica keep?

When properly stored in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to bring a slice of Italy into your home, this Pizza Rustica Recipe is a perfect choice. It combines simple ingredients and heartfelt tradition into a rich, delicious pie that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Give it a try, and enjoy every savory bite that makes this dish a timeless favorite!