Prepare ingredients, as directed.

Preheat 12-inch cast iron Dutch oven to 350 degrees F (25 total coals = 17 top/8 bottom). NOTE: If you’re using charcoal briquettes, you’ll probably need a second set of coals to finish the baking process.

Place meat on a cutting mat, then, pat ground beef into a big hamburger patty to an approximate size that will fit in the bottom of a 12-inch oven. Season with salt and pepper.

Spray inside of Dutch oven with cooking spray.

Use a spatula to gently slide the patty into the bottom of the pre-heated Dutch oven, being careful not to burn yourself on the hot oven.

Use a spoon to press the patty into the bottom of the oven, making sure the entire patty is an even thickness.

Place the potato slices in an even layer over the onion layer. Season with more salt and pepper.

Spread soup evenly over the top.

Sprinkle cheese evenly over the soup.

Cover with lid and arrange coals for baking at a temperature of 350 degrees F (25 total coals = 17 on top of the lid / 8 below the bottom of the oven).

Bake until the hamburger is cooked through and the potatoes are tender, about 1-1.5 hours. Turn the oven and the lid in opposite directions every 15 minutes to ensure even baking.

Remove lid. Top with French fried onions and return lid to the pot. Move bottom coals to the lid so all of the coals are on the top of the oven. You are essentially broiling the French fried onions and cheese for about 5 minutes.

Remove all coals and let stand a few minutes. Slice and serve hot.