Creamy Florentine Pasta

I don't know many people who can resist the creamy goodness of pasta! It is so versatile and so comforting! It's interesting how preparing food for you friends and loved ones can evoke memories of love and joy.

The last time I made this mouth-watering, one-pot dish, I was watching the absolutely charming movie, Cafe Society. My two college-age children had come over for dinner and a movie. Yep, I made this recipe that night. Cafe Society and Creamy Florentine Pasta will forever be lovingly linked in my heart.

This recipe is one of my favorites and it is simple to make! It only takes 30 minutes and you cook everything in the same pan. No messy bowls, saucepans, etc. You can also make this delicious pasta dinner without the meat. It is yummy either way!

1 lb. of chicken breasts, diced (optional)

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 T butter

2 minced garlic cloves

1 t. salt

1 t. black pepper

1/2 t. paprika

1/4 cup minced sun-dried tomatoes

2 cups of sliced Baby Bella mushrooms

1 T. flour

2 cups chicken broth

1 1/2 cups half and half

4 handfuls raw spinach

1/2 - 1 cup shredded Parmesan/Romano cheese (depending on preference)

In a large skillet, melt the butter and add the chicken pieces (if using). Sprinkle on the salt, pepper, and paprika. Saute until chicken is browned and cooked through. Add the olive oil, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes and the mushrooms. Cook and stir about 4 minutes. You want the mushrooms to begin to caramelize. Sprinkle the flour over all and toss to coat evenly. Scrape up all the charred bits at the bottom of the pan and mix well with everything. This adds delicious flavor!

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet carefully, followed by the half and half and finally, the cheese.

Add the raw angel hair or thin spaghetti, cut up slightly. Make sure the pasta is covered with chicken broth mixture. Cover and simmer on medium-low for about 15 minutes or until pasta is al-dente.

Uncover and remove from heat. Stir in spinach until it is wilted. Add the cheese and toss well. Serve immediately!!

Serves 4

Cafe Society, 2016 IMDb

Highly recommend this movie!

Comments

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