In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sausage, garlic and onion. Sauté the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes, or until slightly browned.
In a large crock cooker, place the sausage mixture and the next 7 ingredients (cabbage through salt and pepper). Stir well and cover. Cook on LOW for 4 hours.
To the crock cooker, add the kale and stir. Cover and cook on LOW for 1 to 2 hours, until the sausage is cooked through and vegetables are tender. Serve warm.