Using kitchen shears or a knife, cut the bacon into small pieces and add it to a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook for about 5 minutes to allow the bacon to crisp slightly before adding in the sausage.

Once the bacon has started browning, add one pound of Italian sausage, breaking it up as you go along. Cook until both meats are nicely browned and crispy, which may take around 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Next, stir in one chopped medium onion and five minced garlic cloves into the pot with the meats. Allow these ingredients to cook together for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and soft.

Pour in two cups of chicken broth and four cups of water along with four diced red potatoes and one quarter teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Increase the heat to high until it reaches a boil before reducing it to medium-low heat to simmer gently.

Let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender enough to pierce with a fork easily. This step is crucial as it allows all those delicious flavors to meld together perfectly.

Finally, stir in one cup of heavy cream and add in bite-sized pieces of kale, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences before serving hot!