Giada’s version of Pizza Rustica is a rustic, hearty Easter pie filled with Italian cured meats, cheeses, and eggs.
Wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust, this traditional dish is a delicious celebration of Italian heritage, perfect for brunch, holidays, or a festive family meal.
Why You’ll Love This Pizza Rustica
Authentic Italian recipe – A classic passed down for generations
Hearty and satisfying – A full meal in every slice
Perfect for spring holidays – Especially Easter and Palm Sunday
Customizable – Use your favorite cheeses and meats
Delicious hot or cold – Great leftovers, too!
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ricotta cheese – Creamy, mild base
Mozzarella or provolone – Melty cheese texture
Eggs – Bind and enrich the filling
Prosciutto – Flavor-packed meats
Pie crusts – Homemade or store-bought
Egg wash – For a golden, glossy finish
Pro Tips Before You Start
Drain ricotta overnight for the best texture
Dice meats and cheeses evenly for a balanced bite
Don’t overfill to avoid spilling during baking
Let cool before slicing for clean cuts
Use a springform pan for easy removal and presentation
How to Make Pizza Rustica (Giada’s Way)
Step 1: Prepare the Dough (if homemade)
Make the crust by combining flour, salt, cold butter, and eggs.
Pulse in a food processor and chill the dough.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, mix ricotta, pecorino, mozzarella, and eggs.
Stir in the diced salami, soppressata, and prosciutto. Season with pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Roll out half of the dough and place in a greased springform pan.
Add the filling and smooth the top.
Cover with second crust, seal the edges, and cut vents.
Brush with egg wash.
Step 4: Bake
Bake at 375°F for 60–75 minutes until the crust is golden and the center is set.
Tent with foil if browning too fast.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Let rest at least 30–45 minutes. Slice and serve warm or chilled.
What to Serve It With
Light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
Roasted asparagus or broccoli
Italian olives or pickled veggies
A glass of Chianti or sparkling water
Variations / Substitutions
Swap meats for turkey-based options or vegetarian fillings
Add sautéed spinach, onions, or peppers for a veggie boost
Use fontina or asiago for alternate cheese flavors
Try puff pastry or phyllo dough for a lighter crust
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate: Keep covered for up to 4–5 days
Freeze: Freeze slices for up to 2 months
Reheat: Warm at 325°F until heated through
FAQs
Is Pizza Rustica the same as Pizzagaina?
Yes! These names are used interchangeably, depending on region.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s actually better after resting overnight.
Can I use store-bought crust?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s large enough to cover your pan.
What’s the best pan to use?
A springform or deep-dish pie pan works best.
Can I make a smaller version?
Yes, halve the filling and use a standard pie pan.
Final Thoughts
Giada’s Pizza Rustica brings bold flavor, rustic charm, and Italian tradition to your holiday table.
With its savory filling and golden crust, this Easter pie is a rich and satisfying way to celebrate family and food.
