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The Boat Shed Kitchen

Pizza Rustica (Pizza Gaina)

Pizza Rustica (Pizza Gaina) is a traditional Italian savory pie made with ricotta, eggs, cheeses, and a mix of Italian sausage and cured meats, all baked into a golden, flaky crust. It's perfect for holidays and tastes even better chilled the next day.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Chill Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 10
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pie crusts top and bottom
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese drained
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1 cup shredded provolone
  • ½ cup grated parmesan or pecorino
  • 6 large eggs
  • ½ lb Italian sausage cooked and cooled
  • 1 –1½ cups chopped cured meats soppressata, prosciuttini, capicola, ham
  • 1 egg for egg wash

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a springform pan with bottom crust.
  2. Brown sausage, drain, and cool.
  3. Mix ricotta, eggs, cheese, pepper. Fold in meats and sausage.
  4. Add filling to crust. Top with second crust. Seal and egg wash.
  5. Bake 70–90 minutes. Cool completely and refrigerate 4+ hours.
  6. See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/pizza-rustica-pizza-gaina/

Notes

  • Make it ahead—the flavors develop beautifully after chilling.
  • Use a deep 9-inch springform pan to fit all the filling.
  • Mix and match your favorite cured meats for a unique touch.