Begin your journey by turning on the Instant Pot. Set it to "Sauté" mode. Once hot, add the olive oil. Throw in the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the sweet Italian sausage.

As it browns, use a wooden spoon to break it apart into smaller pieces. Cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. The aroma is sure to make your mouth water!

Once the sausage is cooked, stir in the minced garlic and fennel seeds. Let them dance together for about a minute. The transformation of smell is incredible! You want to ensure that the garlic doesn’t burn, so keep a watchful eye.

After the garlic becomes fragrant, pour in the chicken stock and add your diced russet potatoes. Give everything a good stir to combine. The chicken stock will lift those flavors beautifully. It’s time to seal the deal—close the Instant Pot lid and set the pressure release valve to "Sealing."

Activate the Instant Pot’s "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" function and set the timer for 8 minutes. That’s right! Just 8 minutes. As it cooks, you can do a little happy dance, knowing dinner is on its way!

While the soup cooks, rinse your fresh kale and roughly chop it. You’ll add it later, but preparing it now keeps you one step ahead!

In a small bowl, mix the half-and-half cream with a dash of salt and pepper. This creamy mixture will give your soup that signature Olive Garden richness.

Once the Instant Pot beeps, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to "Venting." Open the lid, and behold the warm, delicious soup!

Gently fold in the chopped kale and half-and-half mixture. Set the Instant Pot to "Sauté" mode again and let it simmer for another 5 minutes until the kale becomes tender. Stir occasionally. It’s at this moment you’ll truly feel the anticipation build.

Lastly, taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and if you dare, more crushed red pepper flakes! Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!