Pizza Gain Aka Pizzagaina Pizza Rustica Italian Easter Ham Pie
Celebrate Italian Easter traditions with Pizza Gain, also known as Pizzagaina, Pizza Rustica, or Italian Easter Ham Pie—a rich, savory masterpiece that's perfect for holiday gatherings. This indulgent pie boasts a buttery, flaky homemade crust filled with a luscious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, paired with layers of cured Italian meats like soppressata, prosciutto, and diced ham. With its golden, decorative crust and hearty filling, this recipe combines old-world charm with irresistible flavor. Ideal as a centerpiece for your Easter feast or any special occasion, Pizza Gain is a make-ahead dish that tastes even better when served at room temperature. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this classic Italian recipe is sure to impress!
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Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 6 large eggs
- 16 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces sliced soppressata
- 8 ounces sliced prosciutto
- 8 ounces diced ham
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 0.25 cup water (ice cold)
Directions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan or deep pie dish.
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 3
Lightly beat 2 eggs and mix them into the flour mixture. Gradually add ice-cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two portions (one slightly larger than the other), wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 4
In another large bowl, whisk the remaining 4 eggs. Add the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
Step 5
Fold in the diced ham, sliced soppressata, and prosciutto until evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
Step 6
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the larger portion of dough into a 14-inch circle and carefully press it into the greased springform pan, allowing the excess to drape over the sides.
Step 7
Pour the cheese and meat filling into the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 8
Roll out the smaller portion of dough into a 10-inch circle and place it over the filling. Fold the overhanging edges of the bottom crust over the top crust, pinching to seal. Crimp the edges decoratively if desired.
Step 9
Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Optionally, brush the crust with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) for a golden finish.
Step 10
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 90 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. If the crust browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 20-30 minutes of baking.
Step 11
Let the pie cool completely before slicing to ensure it holds its shape. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (2524.6g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 7314.6 |
| Total Fat 466.4g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 253.5g | 0% |
| Cholesterol 2592.4mg | 0% |
| Sodium 17602.5mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 394.6g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 13.4g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 16.9g | |
| Protein 356.9g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 246IU | 0% |
| Calcium 4346.8mg | 0% |
| Iron 36.2mg | 0% |
| Potassium 3616.7mg | 0% |
Source of Calories