3 tbsp. butter

1 large onion, chopped

6 medium (about 2 c.) carrots*, thinly sliced

1 tsp. dried thyme

1 tsp. dried basil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 c. all-purpose flour

4 c. chicken broth, (low sodium or homemade)

1 lb. mild ground Italian sausage, cooked and drained

4 c, potatoes, peeled and diced

2 c. kale, packed tight, stem-removed and chopped

1-2 bell peppers*, stems removed and chopped

2 tbsp. Italian parsley (+ more for garnish)

1 c. heavy cream

salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

(optional garnishes: shredded parmesan cheese, Italian flavored croutons)