Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add bacon slices and cook until they are crisp, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
Remove the bacon, leaving about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pot.
Next, add the Italian sausage to the pot.
Break it up with a spatula and cook it thoroughly for around 5 minutes until browned.
Toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until tender and golden.
This enhances the soup’s flavor.
Add the sliced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat.
Simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, until the potatoes become tender.
Introduce the chopped kale and half and half to the soup, stirring gently.
Continue to simmer until the kale wilts, which takes approximately 3 to 5 minutes.
Season with salt and black pepper to your liking.