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Grilled Cheese Dippers and Texas Ranchero Tomato Soup

  • Karen - City Girl with a Texas Twist
  • Jan 23
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jan 23

January 23, 2025 -


Original Recipe by Karen at City Girl with a Texas Twist


Dive into crispy, buttery grilled cheese dippers, oozing with gooey cheddar and pepper jack, perfectly paired with a rich Texas Ranchero tomato soup, bursting with smoky spices and a zesty kick. This duo transforms a classic comfort meal into a bold and flavorful Lone Star experience!

City Girl with a Texas Twist"s Grilled Cheese Dippers and Texas Ranchero Tomato Soup
City Girl with a Texas Twist"s Grilled Cheese Dippers and Texas Ranchero Tomato Soup

Ingredients

Serves: 4


Grilled Cheese Dippers

  • 8 slices of Texas Toast

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese

  • 1 cup shredded Smoked Gouda cheese

  • 1/4 cup Queso Fresco, crumbled

  • 8 tbsp butter,softened (salted or unsalted)

  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon

  • Smoked paprika: ½ teaspoon

  • Chili powder: ½ teaspoon

  • Cumin: ¼ teaspoon


Instructions:

Prepare the Butter:

  • Mix the softened butter with garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin.

  • Set aside.


Assemble the Sandwiches:

  • Lay out the bread slices.

  • Sprinkle a blend of shredded cheddar, smoked gouda, pepper jack and queso fresco on 4 slices.

  • Top with the other slices of bread.

  • Spread the seasoned butter on the outside of each sandwich.


Grill -OR- Airfry the Sandwiches!

Grill:

  • Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.

  • Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

  • Let the sandwiches rest for 1-2 minutes, then slice into 3-4 strips per sandwich or triangles.


Airfry:

  • Place the sandwiches in the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer. (Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.)

  • Cook at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.

  • Flip the sandwiches halfway through (after about 3-4 minutes) to ensure even browning on both sides.

  • The sandwiches are ready when the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted.

  • Remove the sandwiches from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.

  • Slice each sandwich into strips or triangles for dipping and serve warm with the Texas Ranchero Tomato Soup.


Texas Ranchero Tomato Soup


Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste


Instructions:


Sauté the Aromatics:

  • Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat.

  • Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

  • Stir in the garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.

  • Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

    Build the Base:

  • Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes and broth.

  • Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

  • Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes to meld the flavors.

    Blend the Soup (Optional):

  • For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend directly in the pot, or carefully transfer to a countertop blender and blend in batches.

  • Skip this step if you prefer a chunkier texture.

    Finish with Cream:

  • Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

  • Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

    Garnish and Serve:

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped cilantro if desired.

  • Serve warm with Grilled Cheese Dippers.


Texas-Sized Plating Tips

  1. Stack the dippers beside the soup bowl in a rustic basket or plate lined with parchment paper.

  2. Add a small side of BBQ ranch or chipotle dip for the dippers.

  3. Sprinkle extra cheese and tortilla crumbs around the soup for a cozy, Texan vibe.

Take it to the next level!

Filling Enhancement suggestions -

  • Include thinly sliced brisket, pulled pork, or smoked turkey for a smoky BBQ element.

  • Spread a thin layer of chipotle mayo or honey BBQ sauce inside for a surprise flavor boost.

  • Add grilled poblano peppers or caramelized onions for depth.




This recipe is the original creation of City Girl with a Texas Twist, LLC. For personal use only. Please do not reproduce without permission. Sharing? Link back to this page.

 
 
 

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