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Pizza Gain (Pizzagaina)

Easy Home Cooking
A traditional Italian Easter pie packed with rich cheeses, cured meats, and hard-boiled eggs, all baked into a golden double crust. Hearty, satisfying, and perfect for celebrating with family.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Cooling Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours 25 minutes
Servings 10 slices
Calories 460 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 15 oz ricotta cheese drained
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup shredded provolone
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan
  • 4 large eggs beaten
  • 3 hard-boiled eggs chopped
  • 1 cup diced ham
  • 1/2 cup diced salami
  • 1/2 cup diced prosciutto
  • 1/4 lb capicola HOT CAPICOLA, spiced-hot capicola
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 pie crusts homemade or store-bought
  • 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Line pan with bottom crust.
  • In a bowl, mix cheeses and beaten eggs. Fold in meats and hard-boiled eggs.
  • Fill crust. Top with second crust. Seal, crimp, and cut steam vents.
  • Brush with egg wash. Bake 60–70 minutes until golden.
  • Cool completely, then chill several hours before slicing
  • See full steps with tips & photos → https://wimpysdiner.net/pizza-gain-pizzagaina/

Notes

  • This pie is traditionally made for Easter but perfect year-round as a make-ahead brunch or potluck dish.
  • Draining the ricotta is crucial to avoid a watery filling.
  • Use a combination of mild and spicy cured meats to create contrast and depth of flavor.
  • Best served cold or at room temperature—delicious the next day.