If you have ever longed for a savory dish that feels like a warm family hug, the Pizza Rustica Recipe is exactly what you need. This Italian classic brings together a beautiful blend of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, and savory meats all encased in a golden, flaky crust. Every bite delivers a delightful mix of textures and rich flavors that make Pizza Rustica irresistible for any occasion, whether for a casual brunch or a festive gathering. Trust me, once you try this Pizza Rustica Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to comfort foods to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The brilliance of this Pizza Rustica Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy cheeses that provide luscious texture to the cured meats that add that salty, savory kick. The pie crust brings it all together with a buttery finish that makes this dish truly special.
- Pie crust or homemade pastry dough (2 sheets): A tender and flaky base and top that holds all the delicious filling.
- Ricotta cheese (1 lb, drained): Creamy and mild, this forms the comforting foundation of the filling.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): For melty, stringy goodness that makes each bite satisfyingly cheesy.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor enhancing the overall depth.
- Cubed provolone cheese (1/2 cup): Offers a slightly tangy and smooth contrast in the filling.
- Chopped salami (1/2 cup): Brings a smoky, spicy touch that energizes the flavor profile.
- Chopped prosciutto or ham (1/2 cup): Provides a delicate saltiness and tender texture to balance the meats.
- Large eggs (4): Acts as a binder, giving the filling structure and richness.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just a hint of spice to awaken the ingredients.
- Egg (1, for egg wash): Ensures a glossy, golden crust that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Make Pizza Rustica Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This bake temperature perfectly balances a golden crust with a fully cooked, creamy filling. Next, line your 9-inch pie dish with one sheet of pie dough. Press it gently but firmly into every corner to create a stable base for the filling.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone cheeses. Add the chopped salami and prosciutto or ham, the 4 eggs, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Mix everything until it’s evenly blended — this is where the magic flavor mix comes to life.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the rich filling into your crust-lined pie dish, spreading it out evenly and smoothing the top. Now cover the filling with the second sheet of dough, sealing the edges carefully by pressing and crimping to keep all those delicious flavors inside. Don’t forget to cut a few small slits on top so steam can escape while baking.
Step 4: Final Touch and Baking
Brush the top crust with the beaten egg to create that picture-perfect golden shine. Place your masterpiece in the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust is beautifully golden and the filling is set but still creamy inside. Let your Pizza Rustica rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing to perfect the textures.
How to Serve Pizza Rustica Recipe
Garnishes
This dish tastes wonderful on its own but adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top just before serving can brighten the flavors. A light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan also adds a lovely finishing touch and a little extra saltiness.
Side Dishes
Pizza Rustica pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables. The fresh and light accompaniments help cut through the richness of the pie, creating a balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, cut the Pizza Rustica into generous wedges and arrange on a rustic wooden board. You can also serve it with small ramekins of marinara sauce or spicy honey for dipping. It’s perfect finger food for parties or a cozy family dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pizza Rustica tastes just as good the next day. Simply cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It will stay delicious in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, Pizza Rustica freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to 2 months frozen without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat slices of the Pizza Rustica in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes to get that crust crisp again and warm the filling through. For a quicker option, a microwave works too, but the oven provides the best taste and texture revival.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pie crust or do I have to make my own?
You can absolutely use store-bought pie crust for convenience. It works wonderfully and still yields a deliciously flaky and tender crust. Homemade dough is a nice touch if you want that extra freshness, but it’s not required.
What can I substitute if I don’t have provolone cheese?
If provolone isn’t on hand, try using fontina or Monterey Jack as substitutes. They offer a similar mild and slightly tangy flavor that blends well within the filling.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! To adapt the Pizza Rustica Recipe for vegetarians, simply omit the salami and prosciutto and add extra vegetables like roasted peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to give it plenty of flavor and texture.
How long does it take to cool before serving?
Allow the Pizza Rustica to cool for at least 30 minutes after baking. This resting time helps the filling to set perfectly and makes slicing easier without losing that creamy texture inside.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
Pizza Rustica is wonderfully versatile; it can be served warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature. Both ways showcase the flavors beautifully, making it a great option for any meal or gathering.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend giving this Pizza Rustica Recipe a try enough. It’s a heartwarming, cheesy, and savory treat that’s incredibly satisfying and perfect for sharing. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual meal, this recipe brings a little slice of Italian comfort right to your table. Dive in, enjoy every bite, and get ready for the compliments to start rolling in!
Print
Pizza Rustica Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Savory Pie
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Pizza Rustica is a traditional Italian savory pie featuring a rich and creamy filling of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone cheeses combined with chopped salami and prosciutto, encased in a flaky pie crust. This hearty dish is perfect for festive occasions or a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients
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
For Egg Wash
- 1 egg (beaten)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the pie.
- Prepare crust base: Line a 9-inch pie dish with one sheet of pie dough, pressing it firmly into the edges to form the base and sides of the pie shell.
- Mix filling: In a large bowl, combine drained ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, cubed provolone, chopped salami, chopped prosciutto or ham, 4 eggs, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the filling is well combined and smooth.
- Fill the crust: Pour the cheese and meat filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top for an even bake.
- Cover and seal: Place the second pie crust sheet over the filling. Seal the edges by crimping to prevent leakage during baking. Cut a few slits on top of the crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Apply egg wash: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg to give the baked pie a beautiful golden-brown finish.
- Bake the pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set and firm to the touch.
- Cool and serve: Allow the pizza rustica to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. It is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the ricotta cheese well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- Feel free to substitute or add other cured meats like pancetta or spicy soppressata for varied flavors.
- Allowing the pie to cool before slicing helps it hold together better for clean slices.
- This savory pie can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, flavors improve after resting.
- For a homemade dough option, a classic shortcrust pastry works wonderfully.
