**Zuppa Toscana Recipe**

**Ingredients:**

– 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
– 4 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 3 cups water
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

 **Instructions:**

1. **Cook the Meat:**
– In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
– Add the Italian sausage to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once cooked through, remove the sausage and set it aside with the bacon.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables:**
– In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
– Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

3. **Cook the Potatoes:**
– Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil.
– Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.

4. **Finish the Soup:**
– Stir in the cooked sausage and bacon, then add the chopped kale or spinach.
– Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
– Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.

5. **Serve:**
– Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy with a slice of crusty bread or on its own.

This soup is perfect for a cozy meal and can be easily adjusted to suit your preferences. Enjoy!