Nestled in the heart of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Red Wagon Pizza is not just any ordinary pizza joint. This place is a neighborhood gem with a rich history, and it has captured the attention of none other than Guy Fieri, the charismatic host of Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.” In this episode, Guy takes us on a journey through Red Wagon Pizza, exploring its roots, tasting its famous offerings, and even getting a hands-on experience in the kitchen.
A Family Tradition Turned Neighborhood Staple
Red Wagon Pizza isn’t just another pizza place; it’s a continuation of a cherished family tradition. Peter Campbell, the current owner, recounts how his grandparents used to host pizza parties in their basement back in the late 1940s. Fast forward to 2014, Peter opened Red Wagon Pizza, picking up where his grandpa left off.
The Magic Dough
The magic begins with the dough, a crucial element of any great pizza. Peter walks Guy through the process, starting with cold water and a special type of flour called Heritage wheat. The dough-making process is meticulous, involving several stages of mixing and resting. “If you go and stretch it and it splits open, then it hasn’t built the gluten,” Peter explains, emphasizing the importance of getting the texture just right.
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Carnivore Hour: Making the Sausage
In true “Triple D” fashion, Guy dives into the meat-centric part of the menu, specifically the house-made sausage. This involves cubed pork butt, bacon, garlic, onion, fennel powder, salt, and black pepper. The mixture is allowed to cure overnight before it’s ground and cooked. “I think we might be cousins,” jokes Guy, as he bonds with Peter over their shared love for carnivorous delights.
The Star of the Show: The Pizza
The real magic happens when it all comes together. The pizzas at Red Wagon Pizza are 14 inches of culinary delight. They feature house-made sauce, a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese, and toppings like house sausage and banana peppers. “Everything you’re doing in the pizza is balanced,” Guy exclaims, praising the fresh-made sausage, handmade dough, and homemade sauce. “It’s an artisan pizza, man,” he adds, clearly impressed.
A Surprising Twist: Handmade Tortellini
Red Wagon Pizza isn’t just about pizza; they also serve some unexpectedly refined dishes like handmade tortellini. The process involves making fresh ricotta from whole milk, heavy cream, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar. This is then mixed with a spinach puree and piped into fresh pasta. “You’re killing me,” Guy exclaims, clearly impressed as he’s taken through each step of the process. The tortellini is then cooked and served in a cheesy béchamel sauce with ham and fresh peas. “It’s fantastic. I would not expect a tortellini that good to be found at a pizza place,” says Guy, amazed by the quality and craftsmanship.
The Verdict
Guy sums up his experience at Red Wagon Pizza with high praise: “It has some sweet, it has some spice, it has a little kick. I love it.” From the meticulously crafted dough to the house-made sausage and unexpectedly sophisticated tortellini, Red Wagon Pizza is a must-visit for anyone in Minneapolis. It’s a place where family tradition meets culinary excellence, and every bite tells a story.