Kale & Sausage Soup

As a food blogger I obviously love food.  Cooking it, shopping for it, eating it... And although I love trying new restaurants, once in a while there is something comforting about a restaurant chain. There's just something about knowing you can get the same thing every time you go. You will probably recognize this soup from one of the popular Italian chain restaurants, but what you may not know is just how easy it is to make at home! I promise, it's just as good as the restaurant version, and for those nights when you are craving this popular soup, being able to eat it at home in your sweats while you binge watch Santa Clarita Diet (oops, did I just admit I do that?) is pretty much the best thing ever!

Forgive my photography on this one, I was starving and couldn't wait to dig in!

Ingredients:
1lb. of bulk mild Italian sausage
1 small yellow onion diced
2 cloves of minced garlic
1 pinch of red pepper flakes (more if you like it spicy)
2 boxes of low sodium chicken broth
1 large russet potato diced into 1" cubes
1 bag of chopped kale (or 1/2 of a Costco sized bag)
1 cup of heavy whipping cream
parmesan cheese if desired for garnish

Directions:
In a large heavy bottom skillet (I use my Dutch oven) saute the Italian sausage until it is browned over medium high heat. Drain half of the fat and then add the diced onion, garlic and red pepper flakes. When the onions begin to turn translucent, add the chicken broth.  Once the broth comes to a boil add the potatoes. When the potatoes are fork tender add the kale and stir until wilted. If the soup seems a little too thick, you can add a cup of water at this point if needed.  Remove from the heat and stir in the cream.  Serve with grated parmesan cheese and garlic bread.  Enjoy!