Zuppa Toscana

Mmmmm..... Zuppa Toscana you are delicious. Who can resist spicy sausage, tender potatoes, and earthy kale. I am not a big fan of Olive Garden- when we eat out we tend to avoid chain restaurants. However, when I have eaten there this is one of my favorite things to order (yes even over pasta!). I decided that I wanted to try to make my own rendition of this classic soup. Ron never tried Zuppa Toscana, and was thrilled with the end result. The soup is really easy, and takes very little time to put together- which is awesome on a weeknight! You will not e disappointed with this soup. Enjoy!
Ingredients
1 lb Italian sausage
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
2 lb potatoes, peeled and sliced about 1/4-1/2 inch thick
3 strips of bacon, diced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 pint cream
1 bunch kale, ripped into bite size pieces
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
1 tsp butter
1 tsp olive oil

Instructions
Saute bacon, onion, and garlic in olive oil and butter. When onions are tender and translucent add broth and water. Bring liquid to a simmer, and add potatoes. While potatoes are cooking, brown sausage in a separate skillet. When potatoes are tender, add sausage, pepper, and crushed red pepper. Reduce heat. Add kale and cream. Stir well, and allow soup to cook for about 5 minutes. Serve with crusty bread.