Ingredients:

• 1 – 1/2 lbs. ground Italian sausage
• 1 large sweet onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 3 heaping teaspoons chicken bouillon
• 6 large potatoes, (about 1 1/2 lbs) cut into one-inch chunks
• 1 – 2 cups spinach, washed,tough stems removed, roughly chopped
• 2 cups cream
• up to 2 cups of instant mashed potato flakes (optional –  makes it a thicker heartier stew start on the low end when you add the flakes)

Directions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat brown the sausage and onion together. When the sausage is cooked through and the onions are tender, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute or two. (Don’t let the garlic brown!).
2. Add the oregano, basil,  and black pepper. Cook for another minute, then spoon this mixture into the slow cooker.
3. Add the chicken stock, and the cut potatoes.
4. Cook on low for 5-6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. About one hour before serving add the chopped spinach, the cream, and if you like a thicker, chowder-like soup, up to two cup of instant mashed potatoes to the slow cooker. Continue to cook on low for about an hour.
6. Serve in large bowls with fresh warm bread or garlic toast on the side, if desired.