Uncle Giuseppe Pizza Rustica Recipe
Indulge in the authentic taste of Uncle Giuseppe's Pizza Rustica with our delicious recipe. Elevate your Italian cooking game today!
- Publisher: Recipe Volt
- Cuisine: American
- Category: Main Dish
- Prep Time:
- Cook Time:
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 550 calories
Uncle Giuseppe's Pizza Rustica
Uncle Giuseppe's Pizza Rustica is a beloved Italian dish that embodies the heartiness and flavors of traditional Italian cuisine. Originating from the kitchen of Uncle Giuseppe's Marketplace, this recipe showcases a rich combination of meats and cheeses encased in a flaky pie crust.
The star ingredients include a variety of cured meats such as sweet and hot soppressata, Genoa salami, pepperoni, and cooked ham, all diced into bite-sized pieces to infuse each bite with savory goodness. These meats are complemented by an assortment of cheeses, including provolone, mozzarella, ricotta, and pecorino Romano, which meld together to create a creamy and indulgent filling.
The preparation begins with mixing the cheeses and eggs to form a luscious base, then incorporating the diced meats to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout. This flavorful mixture is then nestled into a pie shell, creating a tantalizing layering effect that promises a burst of flavors in every slice.
Baked to golden perfection, Uncle Giuseppe's Pizza Rustica emerges from the oven with a crispy, golden-brown crust enveloping a decadent filling. Whether served warm or at room temperature, each slice offers a symphony of textures and tastes, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering or special occasion.
With its roots deeply embedded in Italian culinary tradition, Uncle Giuseppe's Pizza Rustica is not just a dish; it's a celebration of flavors, craftsmanship, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. Whether enjoyed as a hearty lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a delightful addition to any festive spread, this iconic dish is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who have the pleasure of tasting it.
Recipe
Discover the ultimate flavor explosion with our upgraded Uncle Giuseppe's Pizza Rustica recipe! Dive into Italian culinary bliss now!
Ingredients
- ½ lb. sweet soppressata, cut into cubes
- ½ lb. hot soppressata, cut into cubes
- ½ lb. Genoa salami, cut into cubes
- ½ lb. pepperoni, cut into cubes
- ½ lb. cooked ham, cut into cubes
- ½ lb. provolone cheese, cut into cubes
- ½ lb. mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 lb. fresh ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup grated pecorino Romano cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 eggs
- 2 sheets of refrigerated pie crust dough
Method Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, provolone cheese, pecorino Romano cheese, Parmesan cheese, and 4 beaten eggs. Mix until well combined.
- Add in the sweet soppressata, hot soppressata, Genoa salami, pepperoni, and cooked ham. Stir until evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
- Roll out one sheet of pie crust dough and line the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough.
- Pour the cheese and meat mixture into the pie crust-lined dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Roll out the second sheet of pie crust dough and place it over the top of the filling. Seal the edges by crimping them with a fork and cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Beat the remaining 2 eggs and brush them over the top crust for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Let the pizza rustica cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
This recipe will yield a richer and more flavorful pizza rustica, perfect for serving up to six wonderful guests. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Recipe Video
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Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 75 reviews.
Recipe Tags: Uncle Giuseppe's Pizza Rustica, Uncle Giuseppe's Pizza Rustica Recipe, Recipe
Servings
Uncle Giuseppe's Pizza Rustica is best served warm or at room temperature, allowing its flavors to fully develop and meld together. Here's how you can serve it:
- Cooling Time: Allow the pizza rustica to cool in the pie dish for about 15-20 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice.
- Slice: Once cooled slightly, carefully slice the pizza rustica into wedges using a sharp knife. Ensure each slice has a generous portion of the filling and crust.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish each slice with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve: Arrange the slices on a serving platter or individual plates, and serve alongside your favorite accompaniments. Pizza rustica pairs well with a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or a selection of marinated olives and roasted vegetables.
Whether you serve as a main course for a family dinner or as part of a festive gathering, Uncle Giuseppe's Pizza Rustica is sure to be a hit. Buon appetito!
Tips
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality meats and cheeses for the best flavor. Freshly grated cheeses and artisanal cured meats will elevate the taste of your pizza rustica.
- Even Distribution: When mixing the filling, ensure that the meats and cheeses are evenly distributed throughout the ricotta mixture. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the filling before assembling the pizza rustica and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, or dried herbs like oregano or basil to enhance the flavor.
- Proper Crust Preparation: If using store-bought pie crust dough, make sure to roll it out evenly and line the pie dish without any tears or gaps. This helps prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Sealing the Crust: When placing the top crust over the filling, seal the edges well by crimping them with a fork. This prevents the filling from spilling out and helps create a beautiful, uniform crust.
- Golden Finish: For a golden-brown crust, brush the top crust with beaten egg before baking. This adds shine and color to the finished pizza rustica.
- Cooling Time: Allow the pizza rustica to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to cut into neat slices.
- Storage: Pizza rustica can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven before serving.
Ingredient Substitutes
If you need to substitute ingredients in Uncle Giuseppe's Pizza Rustica recipe, here are some options:
- Meats: Instead of soppressata, you can use Italian dry salami or pepperoni. Swap Genoa salami for another cured meat like mortadella or prosciutto. Cooked turkey or chicken can replace ham if you prefer a different flavor.
- Cheeses: Substitute provolone with another semi-hard cheese such as Fontina or Gouda. Mozzarella can be replaced with Monterey Jack or Swiss cheese. If basket cheese is unavailable, try using feta cheese or ricotta salata.
- Pie Crust: If you prefer a homemade crust, you can make one using flour, butter, salt, and water. Alternatively, use a store-bought puff pastry or phyllo dough for a flakier crust.
- Egg Wash: If you don't have eggs for the egg wash, you can brush the crust with melted butter or milk for a similar golden finish.
- Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasonings to your taste preferences. Add Italian seasoning blend, garlic powder, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Vegetarian Options: For a vegetarian version, omit the meats and increase the quantity of vegetables such as roasted peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Dairy-Free or Vegan Options: Substitute dairy cheeses with plant-based alternatives such as vegan mozzarella, ricotta, or provolone. Ensure they melt well for the desired texture.
- Gluten-Free Options: Use a gluten-free pie crust or pastry dough to accommodate gluten sensitivities or preferences.
Remarks
Bringing the taste of Italy to your table has never been more delightful. Enjoy every savory bite of Uncle Giuseppe's Pizza Rustica and create unforgettable moments with loved ones.