Pizza Gain, also known as Pizzagaina or Pizza Rustica, is a cherished Italian Easter pie layered with savory meats, rich cheeses, and eggs, all nestled in a tender homemade crust.

This hearty, celebratory dish is a beautiful tradition passed down through generations, perfect for Easter brunch or any spring gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Pizza Gain

Loaded with flavor – Ham, salami, ricotta, and eggs in every bite

A true holiday classic – Tied to Italian Easter traditions

Feeds a crowd – Perfect centerpiece for gatherings

Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better chilled the next day

Customizable – Use your favorite deli meats and cheeses

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Ricotta cheese – Creamy foundation of the filling

Mozzarella & provolone – For gooey, stretchy texture

Grated parmesan – Salty, nutty depth

Hard-boiled eggs – Traditional for texture and heartiness

Diced ham, salami, prosciutto – Classic Italian meats

Fresh ground pepper – Balances the richness

Homemade or refrigerated pie crust – Encloses the savory filling

Pro Tips Before You Start

Drain ricotta for a firmer filling texture

Dice meats and eggs uniformly for even layering

Don’t overfill – allow room for the filling to set

Let the pie rest completely before slicing for clean cuts

Brush with egg wash for a golden, bakery-style crust

How to Make Pizza Gain (Pizzagaina)

Step 1: Prep the Crust

Line a 9×13-inch pan or deep-dish pie plate with rolled-out dough.

Leave edges hanging slightly over the sides.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together ricotta, mozzarella, provolone, grated parmesan, and beaten eggs.

Fold in chopped hard-boiled eggs and diced meats.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Pour filling into the crust. Roll out top crust and place over filling.

Trim, crimp edges, and cut steam vents in the top. Brush with beaten egg.

Step 4: Bake

Bake at 350°F for 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes, or until crust is golden and center is set.

Cover edges with foil if browning too quickly.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Cool completely before refrigerating.

Chill for several hours or overnight before slicing.

What to Serve It With

Sliced tomatoes with olive oil and basil

Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette

Fresh melon or fruit platter

A crisp white wine or sparkling juice

Italian Easter cookies for dessert

Variations / Substitutions

Use basket cheese if available for authenticity

Add sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers for veggies

Substitute sausage or capicola for salami or ham

Try puff pastry for a flakier twist

Skip hard-boiled eggs if preferred

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store slices in airtight containers up to 4 days

Freeze: Wrap slices individually and freeze up to 2 months

Reheat: Bake at 325°F or microwave gently

FAQs

Can I make Pizza Gain ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best made a day in advance to let flavors develop.

Can I skip the hard-boiled eggs?
Absolutely – the pie will still be delicious.

What’s the difference between Pizza Gain and Pizza Rustica?
They are different names for the same Italian Easter tradition.

Should I serve it warm or cold?
Traditionally served cold or room temperature, but delicious warm too.

Can I make it without a top crust?
Yes, but the top crust helps seal and set the filling.

Final Thoughts

Pizza Gain is more than a pie – it’s a celebration of Italian heritage and Easter tradition.

Whether you’re keeping family customs alive or creating new ones, this savory, cheesy ham pie will be the star of your table.