Creamy Zuppa Toscana

hot Italian sausage (casings removed)

large onion ( chopped)

garlic (minced)

large russet baking potatoes (peeled, quartered, and then chopped in 1/4 inch slices )

slices bacon (cooked and crumbled )

  cups chicken broth 

water

  cups chopped kale ((ribs/stems removed) )

heavy cream 

salt and pepper (to taste)

crushed red pepper (to taste, if desired)