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Italian Easter Pie (Pizza Rustica)

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Italian Easter Pie, or Pizza Rustica, is a rich and savory deep-dish pie filled with a blend of cheeses, cured meats, and eggs encased in a flaky crust. It’s a traditional Italian-American dish enjoyed during Easter and other special gatherings.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60–75 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 1 large deep-dish pie (10–12 slices)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cold butter or shortening
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 6–8 tablespoons cold water
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup diced provolone cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 large eggs (plus 1 for egg wash)
  • 1 cup diced soppressata or salami
  • 1 cup diced capicola or ham
  • 1/2 cup chopped prosciutto (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and cold butter or shortening. Mix until crumbly, then add cold water gradually to form a dough. Chill the dough while preparing the filling.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses.
  4. Beat 4 eggs and mix them into the cheese mixture until well combined.
  5. Fold in the diced cured meats. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Roll out half the dough and line a deep-dish pie plate with it.
  7. Pour the filling into the crust and smooth the top.
  8. Roll out the remaining dough, place it over the filling, and seal the edges. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
  9. Brush the top with a beaten egg.
  10. Bake for 60–75 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the center is set.
  11. Let the pie cool completely before slicing to help it hold its shape.

Notes

  • Add sautéed spinach or broccoli rabe for a veggie variation.
  • Use hot soppressata or spicy capicola for extra heat.
  • Make individual mini pies using muffin tins for parties.
  • Store-bought pie crust can be used for convenience.
  • Layering meat and cheese adds a decorative touch.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/italian-easter-pie-pizza-rustica/