This incredible Italian savory pie features a special soft dough enriched with cream that creates the most tender, flavorful crust. Packed with layers of melted mozzarella, savory turkey, and perfectly seasoned vegetables, this hearty pie is perfect for family dinners, weekend treats, or even starting your own profitable bakery business. Simple techniques yield professional results every time.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- Warm milk – 200ml (6.8 fl oz)
- Heavy cream – 200g (7 oz / 1 box)
- Salt – 1/2 tablespoon
- Sugar – 2 tablespoons
- Active dry yeast – 1 tablespoon (10g / 0.35 oz)
- Margarine or butter – 2 tablespoons (30g / 1 oz)
- All-purpose flour – 650g (1.4 lbs)
For the Filling:
- Mozzarella cheese, sliced – 300g (10.6 oz)
- Turkey slices – 200g (7 oz)
- Tomato sauce – 120ml (1/2 cup)
- Fresh tomato – 1 medium, seeded and diced
- Turkey sausage – 150g (5.3 oz), diced
- Yellow onion – 1 medium, sliced
- Dried oregano – to taste
For Finishing:
- Cream cheese spread – 2 tablespoons
- Egg yolk – 1 large
- Sesame seeds – 1 tablespoon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, heavy cream, salt, sugar, and active dry yeast. Add margarine and whisk together until well combined and the yeast begins to activate.
Step 2: Form the Dough
Gradually add flour while mixing continuously to prevent lumps. Add flour slowly until a firm, smooth dough forms. Knead until the dough becomes elastic and manageable.
Step 3: Let Dough Rest
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let rest for 10-15 minutes until slightly risen and easier to work with.
Step 4: Roll Bottom Crust
Divide dough in half. Roll one portion into a rectangle about 4mm thick, slightly larger than your baking pan. Use flour as needed to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Line the Pan
Transfer rolled dough to a rectangular baking pan (30x22cm). Press gently into corners and up the sides, leaving overhang for sealing the edges later.
Step 6: Layer the Filling
Build layers in this order: first layer of sliced mozzarella, turkey slices covering the cheese, spread tomato sauce evenly, diced fresh tomato (seeds removed), diced turkey sausage, sliced onions, sprinkle of oregano, and top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
Step 7: Add Top Crust
Roll the second portion of dough thinner (2-3mm). Carefully place over the filling and press edges together to seal completely. Trim excess dough around the edges.
Step 8: Create Decorative Pattern
Make a small hole in the center to release steam. Using a wooden spoon handle, create decorative square patterns across the surface by gently pressing lines into the dough.
Step 9: Apply Egg Wash and Decoration
Beat egg yolk and brush only over the raised square sections, avoiding the pressed lines. Pipe cream cheese along the decorative lines using a squeeze bottle or bag. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the surface.
Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for approximately 15 minutes. In the final 2-3 minutes, turn on the broiler function briefly to achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Nutrition (per slice):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
Why This Recipe is Good for You
This Italian savory pie provides a well-balanced meal rich in high-quality proteins from mozzarella cheese and turkey, supporting muscle health and providing lasting satiety. The cream-enriched dough offers a tender texture while delivering calcium and beneficial fats. Fresh vegetables like tomatoes and onions contribute essential vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber that support immune function and digestive health. The combination of herbs and spices not only enhances flavor but also provides anti-inflammatory compounds, making this a nutritious comfort food option that satisfies both taste and health needs.