Pizza Rustica Or Easter Pie
A hearty Italian-inspired Easter pie featuring a savory mix of cheeses, meats, and herbs, perfect for family gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the sausage meat and drain excess fat.
- Mix eggs, Ricotta cheese, and grated cheese together.
- Add all other ingredients and mix well.
- Grease a large lasagna pan and pour the mixture into it.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until golden brown.
- Allow to settle for 1 day before serving.
- Reheat before serving. Do not serve out of the oven as the pie will run.
- Ensure the pie is cooled down before cutting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful pie, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the sausage. You can substitute the sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the meats and add roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Rustic Pizza Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pizza Rustica warm or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Pair it with a simple green salad and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Italian Sausage And Spaghetti or Terrific Turkey Lasagna for a festive gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure to cover with foil to retain moisture and avoid drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Rustica Or Easter Pie contains roughly 1097 calories, with 48g protein, 177g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (125% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1291mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Pizza Rustica ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Pizza Rustica a day in advance. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover and refrigerate. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the taste. Just remember to reheat it gently before serving.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta cheese, you can use cottage cheese blended until smooth or a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream for a similar texture. Keep in mind that these alternatives might slightly alter the flavor.
Can I freeze Pizza Rustica?
Yes, Pizza Rustica can be frozen. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).