Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz bowtie pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Brown the beef. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp garlic powder, plus salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and no pink remains.

Add marinara. Pour in 1 jar marinara sauce (14.5 oz). Stir to combine and let simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Make it creamy. Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. If desired, add ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.

Combine with pasta. Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated in the cheesy beef marinara sauce.

Finish and serve. Top with freshly chopped basil. Serve hot and enjoy.