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Pizza Rustica

A savory Italian pie made with flaky puff pastry, layered cured meats, creamy cheeses, and eggs for a rich, indulgent filling that’s perfect for brunch or dinner.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 2 packages 17.3 ounces each frozen puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon water
For the Filling
  • 6 ounces prosciutto diced
  • 6 ounces capicola or Italian ham diced
  • 6 ounces salami diced
  • 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
  • cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 8 large eggs
  • ¼ cup fresh Italian parsley finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan
  • Rolling pin
  • Mixing bowls (large and medium)
  • Whisk
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Kitchen shears (optional, for easy meat cutting)
  • Oven
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. Thaw the puff pastry sheets completely, unroll one sheet on a clean surface, and press it into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pan. Prick the bottom lightly with a fork.
  3. Cut the prosciutto, capicola, and salami into 1/4-inch dice and place in a large mixing bowl.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Pecorino Romano, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until pale and well combined.
  5. Gently fold the diced meats into the egg and cheese mixture until evenly distributed without overmixing the eggs.
  6. Pour the filling into the pastry-lined pan, spreading it evenly to reach the edge of the crust. Wipe away any excess filling from the rim.
  7. Unroll the second puff pastry sheet and place it over the filling. Tuck and press the edges together to seal the pie.
  8. Brush the top crust with the egg wash (beaten egg and water) and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set (center should reach 160–165°F/71–74°C).
  9. Allow the pizza rustica to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before using the parchment overhang or releasing the springform to transfer to a cutting board. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Can be assembled a day ahead and baked fresh before serving. Leftovers store in the refrigerator up to 4 days and can be enjoyed warm or chilled.