Zuppa Toscana

This is a soup they serve at Olive Garden. It's my husbands 2nd love in life. ;)

1 lb. Italian Sausage
1/2 Tbsp red pepper flakes
1 large white onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 Tbsp crumbled bacon
8 c. chicken broth
2 c. water
1 c. half and half
2 large russet potatoes, sliced thin
3 c. kale, chopped
salt & pepper

In a large soup pot brown sausage with red pepper flakes. Drain any grease. Remove to a plate. Add onion, garlic, and bacon into pan. Saute, stirring frequently until onions are transparent. Add the broth and water to soup pot. Carefully pour in potatoes. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and let potatoes cook. Should only take about 10 min.
When potatoes are done add half and half and sausage. Cook until heated through. Add kale. Remove from heat and serve.