ALEXIA’S PIZZA RUSTICA (EASTER PIE)
Pizza, Dinner
Intermediate

ALEXIA’S PIZZA RUSTICA (EASTER PIE)

Savory ricotta–basket cheese pie loaded with prosciutto, sausage, salami, ham, and mozzarella in buttery crust.

"A true Italian Easter tradition — rich, savory, and baked with love. Buona Pasqua!" - Alexia

100 Minutes
Total Time
4
Servings
Intermediate
Level

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs (for dough)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 sticks cold butter
  • 1/4 cup whole milk (plus more as needed)
  • 1 lb basket cheese
  • 1 lb ricotta cheese
  • 3/4 lb fresh buffalo mozzarella
  • 4 large eggs (for filling)
  • 1/2 cup grated pecorino romano cheese
  • 1/4 lb Parma prosciutto, thinly sliced into ribbons
  • 3/4 lb sweet Italian sausage (removed from casing and cooked)
  • 1/2 lb cubed salami (small pieces)
  • 1/2 lb cubed baked ham (small pieces)
  • Cracked black pepper (to taste)
  • Butter or cooking spray (for greasing pie plate)
  • Whole milk (for brushing crust)

Instructions

1

Prepare the Dough

In a stand mixer, combine flour, cold butter slices, and salt. Mix on low until the butter is absorbed. Add the eggs and continue mixing. Gradually pour in milk until a firm, non-sticky dough forms. Adjust with extra flour or milk as needed. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and rest for 30–45 minutes.

2

Prepare the Filling

Cut all meats and cheeses into small cubes and combine in a large bowl. Add the grated pecorino romano, eggs, and cracked black pepper. Mix well until fully combined and set aside.

3

Preheat and Prep the Dish

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch Pyrex pie plate with butter or cooking spray.

4

Assemble the Base

Divide the dough in half. Roll out one portion thinly and place it into the greased pie plate as the bottom crust. Trim any excess around the edges.

5

Add the Filling

Spoon the meat and cheese filling into the crust, pressing down gently and spreading evenly to the top.

6

Seal the Pie

Roll out the remaining dough for the top crust and lay it over the filling. Trim excess edges and crimp to seal. Poke holes with a fork for ventilation, then brush the top with whole milk for a golden finish.

7

Bake the Pizza Rustica

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 1–1½ hours until golden brown.

8

Cool and Serve

Allow the pie to rest before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.