Creamy Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup

#### Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the **chicken broth** and stir in the **dried thyme**, **oregano**, and **crushed red pepper flakes** (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the soup cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

#### Step 5: Add Kale and Sausage
Once the potatoes are soft, return the cooked **sausage** to the pot and add the **chopped kale**. Stir well to combine and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, until the kale wilts and softens.

#### Step 6: Stir in the Cream
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the **heavy cream** (or half-and-half). Stir until the soup becomes creamy and smooth. Taste the soup and season with **salt** and **pepper** as needed. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish it with extra kale or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Pair it with some crusty bread for dipping, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to satisfy.

### Tips for the Perfect Creamy Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup:

1. **Use Sausage with Flavor**: Italian sausage is key to this recipe for its flavor. You can use mild or spicy sausage depending on your preference, or even go for turkey sausage for a leaner version.

2. **Cream Alternatives**: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the **heavy cream** with **half-and-half** or **whole milk**. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

3. **Customize the Greens**: While kale is the star of this soup, you can also use **spinach** or **Swiss chard** if you prefer. These greens will add their own distinct flavor and texture.

4. **Add More Veggies**: Feel free to load this soup with more vegetables like **carrots**, **celery**, or **parsnips**. Simply chop them and add them with the potatoes to cook along.

5. **Make it Spicy**: If you like heat, feel free to adjust the amount of **crushed red pepper flakes** or add a splash of **hot sauce** to give the soup an extra kick.

6. **Leftovers**: This soup makes excellent leftovers! The flavors continue to deepen as it sits, and it reheats beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

### Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

**Creamy Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup** is the kind of dish you’ll crave on cold days or whenever you need something hearty and comforting. The combination of sausage, potatoes, and kale is a classic, but the creamy base elevates it to another level of deliciousness. It’s a well-balanced soup with protein, fiber, and healthy fats that’s rich in flavor but not overly heavy.

This soup is easy to make, and its simplicity makes it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can swap out ingredients or adjust the seasonings to fit your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a filling dinner or a warming lunch, **Creamy Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup** is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

### Final Thoughts:

If you’re looking for a soup that’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, then **Creamy Sausage, Potato, and Kale Soup** is the recipe for you. It’s a warm, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to meal prep for the week. The best part is that it’s incredibly simple to make and can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients. So, grab your pot and get ready to enjoy a deliciously creamy and comforting bowl of soup that will leave everyone at the table smiling.