Kale and Sausage Soup

I seem to be one of those people who never gets tired of soup. Now that the weather is getting warmer I know it won't be long before hot soup is off the menu. Until it's just too hot, I'm fitting it in as often as I can. This simple soup is one of my favorites, and is similar to the Olive Garden's Zuppa Toscana.

Kale and Sausage Soup

1 lb good quality bulk Italian Sausage
4-6 slices of bacon, cut into pieces
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
5 cups chicken stock
2 large potatoes, cubed
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 bunch of Kale

In a large pan or stockpot, saute sausage and bacon for a few minutes, until bacon is cooked and the sausage has lost most of its pinkness. Add the onion and garlic and cook a few minutes more, until onion is translucent and the meats are cooked through.

Add stock and potatoes and simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until potatoes are soft.

Add cream and kale, and heat until warmed through. Serve topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese, and a loaf of crusty homemade bread.