Pizzagaina, also known as Pizza Rustica, is a savory Italian pie filled with a mix of cured meats, cheeses, and eggs. It's the perfect dish for Easter brunch or any special occasion. This recipe stays true to its roots, delivering a rich and flavorful pie that will impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold butter, diced
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 8 oz diced pancetta
- 8 oz diced salami
- 8 oz diced prosciutto
- 8 oz diced provolone cheese
- 8 oz diced mozzarella cheese
- 6 eggs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a food processor, blend flour and cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add cold water until dough comes together.
- Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- Roll out dough on a floured surface and line pie dish.
- Layer pancetta, salami, prosciutto, provolone, and mozzarella in the pie dish.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Pour mixture over the meat and cheese.
- Cover with remaining dough, crimp edges, and brush with egg wash.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool before serving. Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Pizzagaina is also known as Pizza Rustica or Easter Pie.
Traditionally, pizzagaina is made during Easter celebrations in Italian households.
The combination of cured meats and cheeses in pizzagaina symbolizes the end of Lenten fasting.