I've actually never had Olive Garden's version of this soup, so I don't know how it compares...all I know is that this is flavorful and hearty and my family LOVES it! It's a regular part of our winter menu!
The ingredients:
The ingredients:
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwj3l1YO32vhw-Y4Ui9KH-Ax1Qlq_UXbOg0MfB4mQLqMsPVL-gS866HfQ9p95FyQh-Gl2qfUAhdQR6KxBiVAX4mauP7Ew2jZHh3x_kXJiQR25X6OxrOkzpvltWNcdfE8-0dId5gg2a9T-u/s400/08+10+28+002005.jpg)
1 lb. italian sausage (mild or spicy according to your preference[we like spicy])
3/4 cup onion, diced
4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1-1/4 tsp. garlic, pressed (I usually just use 3-4 cloves rather than measuring it)
1/3 cup chopped bacon (I use the good bacon bits)
4 cups water
4 chicken bouillon cubes
1 cup kale or spinach leaves, chopped (I use spinach)
1/3 cup cream
1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed (optional)
Remove the casings from the sausage and cook sausage with chopped onion in frying pan, like you would for ground beef. Set aside.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj28t0esAr1AsqECkbXgfl_lAf2LETAm-QfFHtnzHsApQvfsCI0VtxDK8-QzYTP37AKSxc7J684r9SjfV_sX8GhOaSsrHaYcR1_AVI_jRzRxwsRBNdugf8gACPkBDO6ci73JW_9yvl01DtN/s400/08+10+28+004004.jpg)
In a saucepan add chopped potatoes, diced onions, and bouillon to the water. Boil just until potatoes are tender, then add garlic, sausage, and bacon bits. Simmer for a few minutes then add chopped spinach and cream and simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and serve hot with breadsticks and a salad. Serves 4-6.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEo_gE9J8gGDklDYYPT10ph_7F7_AB_yECUb2AHDuywPjIo8k8AHkluTYf2W1yQui5tLEa6aMtLeKnD3i2_K7YanFEL7kgX-ZReu5V8wyZlzbRnlbaTDP64KGeBS46WUUwD605i4vfRgGM/s400/08+10+28+009002.jpg)
Enjoy!