Torta Rustica
A savory Italian-inspired savory pie filled with sausage, ricotta, pimentos, and mozzarella, perfect for family dinners or gatherings that enjoy bold, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove casing from sausage, brown (crumble), and drain on paper towels.
- Separate the egg, mix the yolk with ricotta cheese and basil or oregano.
- Roll the first pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie plate.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella, half of the sausage, all pimentos, and all ricotta mixture in the crust.
- Add the remaining sausage and mozzarella on top.
- Roll out the second pie crust to fit as the top layer.
- Use a pastry brush to brush the top of the pie crust with egg whites.
- Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
- Cover with foil after 15 minutes if crust is getting too brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients. If you want a lighter option, swap the sweet Italian sausage for turkey sausage. You can also use a homemade pie crust if preferred, or explore gluten-free crusts for dietary needs. This dish can be made ahead and frozen for future meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, paired with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast. A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top adds an elegant touch. This dish can also be accompanied by garlic bread or a light Italian soup to complement the flavors. Enjoy with a glass of white wine for an enhanced dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices, but the crust may lose some crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Torta Rustica contains roughly 456 calories, with 17g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 526mg per serving (23% 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 use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ricotta with cottage cheese for a lower-fat option, or try adding feta for a tangy twist. Mixing in some goat cheese can also elevate the flavor profile. Just ensure the cheeses you select melt well if you want a creamy texture.
How do I know when the Torta Rustica is done baking?
The Torta Rustica is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. You can gently shake the pie; if the filling jiggles slightly but not liquid, it’s ready. Remember to cover with foil if it browns too quickly during baking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Torta Rustica a day in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge. This makes it a great option for entertaining!
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).