White Bean and Ham Soup

I love soup!  They're easy, tasty and usually healthy for you!  

serves 6-8

2 cans great northern beans
8 cups chicken broth
2 cups cubed smoked ham
2-3 carrots chopped
2 celery stalks chopped
1 large onion chopped
fresh thyme sprigs
salt and pepper




Brown the celery, onion and carrots in 1-2 TB olive oil in dutch oven on medium heat about 10 minutes.  Add broth, ham, beans and a small hand full of fresh thyme sprigs.  Simmer on low for at least 30 minutes before serving.  Enjoy with fresh baguette.  

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

This recipe is another blast from the past!  Scalloped potatoes and ham is a dish that sticks to your bones!  It is an American classic, that is an easy dish for any family to enjoy during the week.   Jason, was not a big fan of this dish growing up and I really didn't change his mind, but I learned that he just is not a fan of ham.  I am also not a huge fan, but think it is yummy every once in a long while.  The main problem with ham is that it is very salty, but with the cheesy potatoes it is just delicious!  


3 Large Red Potatoes, washed and thinly sliced
2 small ham steak
1 onion, thinly sliced
2-3 cups of cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 TB butter
2 TB flour
salt and pepper


In a pan, fry the thin onion rings until browned and soft.  Cut the ham steaks up into quarters or eighths.  In a small sauce pan, melt butter.  Add milk and season with salt and pepper.  Add four, lower heat and simmer until sauce has thickened. 
Layer Potaotes, ham, onions and cheese.  

Pour sauce over potatoes and ham.  Top with cheddar cheese.

Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour or until browned and bubbly!

Enjoy :)