italian pizza rustica recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
italian pizza rustica recipe
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The Best italian pizza rustica recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite Italian Pizza Rustica recipe. This traditional Neapolitan dish is a staple in our household, and for good reason – it’s a masterclass in layers of flavor and texture. The combination of crispy, buttery pastry, rich egg custard, and savory meat sauce is a match made in heaven.

My kids can’t get enough of it, and I love how easy it is to make for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients like eggs, cheese, and meat, making it a guilt-free choice for families like mine who value home-cooked meals. One of the best things about Pizza Rustica is its versatility – you can serve it as a main course, or slice it up for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.

And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite toppings or fillings. I like to add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to give it an extra burst of flavor.

My family loves when I add some sliced olives or artichoke hearts for added depth. But honestly, the real magic happens when you let this dish sit for at least 30 minutes after baking – the flavors meld together beautifully, and the pastry crisps up perfectly. It’s truly a show-stopper at any gathering or celebration.

I could go on and on about how much we adore Pizza Rustica in our household… but suffice it to say that once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked too! One thing that makes this dish so special is the technique behind it – making the flaky pastry from scratch requires patience and finesse, but trust me when I say it’s worth every minute spent rolling out dough and layering on the toppings.

Italian Pizza Rustica

Italian Pizza Rustica

4.9 from 1613 votes

A hearty savory pie with a flaky crust, filled with sausage, spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella. This dish is perfect for a family meal or a potluck.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp instant yeast
1/2 cup warm water
1/4 cup olive oil

For the Filling

1 lb Italian sausage
10 oz fresh spinach
15 oz ricotta cheese
8 oz mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic
1 egg
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Egg Wash

1 egg
1 tbsp water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 400°F.
2In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
3Add warm water and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms.
4Knead the dough on a floured surface for 2 minutes until smooth.
5Let the dough rest, covered, for 10 minutes.
6While the dough is resting, prepare the filling.
7In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
8Add garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
9Remove from heat and set aside.
10In a separate bowl, combine spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, basil, black pepper, and egg.
11Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
12Add the cooked sausage and garlic mixture to the spinach mixture and combine.
13Roll out the rested dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
14Transfer the dough to a greased baking sheet, creating a slight lip around the edges for the crust.
15Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
16Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
17Brush the top of the dough with the egg wash, ensuring it is evenly coated.
18Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
19Allow the pizza rustica to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Pizza cutter
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Add sliced bell peppers or onions for additional vegetables.

Watch Video Of How Italian Pizza Rustica Works

One thing that makes this dish so special is its versatility – whether you’re serving it as a main course or slicing it up for an appetizer/snack.

Plus, with its wholesome ingredients like eggs cheese meat – there’s no guilt involved in enjoying pizza rustica regularly!

As busy parents ourselves we appreciate how easy this recipe scales up down depending our needs – whether feeding just ourselves hosting party friends/family alike takes only minutes start finish once rhythm making pastry becomes second nature after trying out!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Pizza Rustica

What is the origin of Italian Pizza Rustica?

Italian Pizza Rustica originates from the rustic regions of Italy, where it was traditionally made with simple, hearty ingredients. The dish is a savory pie filled with a mixture of cheeses, meats, and sometimes vegetables, all encased in a flaky pastry crust. It is a popular dish during holidays and special occasions, but it can be enjoyed anytime.

Can I make Pizza Rustica ahead of time?

Yes, Pizza Rustica is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Alternatively, you can freeze the assembled pie for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What type of cheese should I use in Pizza Rustica?

The most common cheeses used in Pizza Rustica are ricotta and mozzarella. Ricotta provides a creamy texture and mild flavor, while mozzarella adds a gooey, stretchy quality. You can also add other cheeses like Parmesan or pecorino for extra flavor.

Can I customize the filling in Pizza Rustica?

Absolutely, one of the best things about Pizza Rustica is its versatility. You can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients. Some popular additions include spinach, artichokes, mushrooms, and various types of meats like salami, ham, or prosciutto. Just make sure to keep the moisture content in mind to avoid a soggy crust.

How should I store leftover Pizza Rustica?

Leftover Pizza Rustica can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, slice the pie and warm the slices in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also freeze individual slices for up to two months.

What is the key to a flaky crust in Pizza Rustica? The key to a flaky crust in Pizza Rustica is to keep the dough simple and not overwork it. Using a food processor can help achieve a smooth and even texture. Additionally, using cold ingredients and handling the dough minimally will help create a light and flaky crust. Make sure to brush the top of the crust with an egg wash for a golden-brown finish.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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