Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will ensure the bake doesn’t stick to the dish.

Step 2: Season and Form the Patties

• In a large bowl, combine 1.5 lbs of ground beef, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.
• Mix the ingredients until well combined, then divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and form each portion into a patty. Set the patties aside.

Step 3: Brown the Patties

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties and brown them on both sides. You don’t need to cook them all the way through—just sear the outsides for flavor and texture.
• Once browned, transfer the patties to a plate and set them aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Gravy

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Whisk together ¼ cup of all-purpose flour with 1 cup of milk until smooth, making sure there are no lumps.
• Slowly add the mixture to the skillet, stirring constantly to avoid clumping. Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of milk while continuing to whisk.
• Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly. Once thickened, remove it from the heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Layer the Potatoes, Onions, and Patties

• In the prepared baking dish, start by layering half of the thinly sliced potatoes and half of the onions evenly across the bottom.
• Place the browned hamburger patties on top of the potatoes and onions.
• Then, layer the remaining potatoes and onions over the top of the patties.
• Pour the prepared gravy evenly over the entire dish, ensuring it covers all the layers.

Step 6: Bake

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
• Bake for 1 hour to allow the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld.
• After 1 hour, uncover the dish and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
• Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.