Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 blend for best results)
- 8 Small Flour or Corn Tortillas (street taco size)
- 8 Slices American Cheese (or cheddar)
- 2 cups Shredded Iceberg Lettuce
- 1/2 cup Dill Pickle Slices
- 1/4 cup Finely Diced White Onion
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste
- For the Secret Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Yellow Mustard
- 1 tbsp Sweet Pickle Relish
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
Instructions
- Step 1: Mix the Burger Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Set this aside in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld while you prepare the beef.
- Step 2: Portion and Press the Beef: Divide your ground beef into eight equal portions (about 2 ounces each). Roll them into loose balls. Place one ball in the center of a tortilla. Using your hand or a flat spatula, spread the beef in a very thin, even layer all the way to the edges of the tortilla. The beef will shrink as it cooks, so covering the entire surface is essential. Season the beef side generously with salt and pepper.
- Step 3: Sear and Smash: Heat a large cast-iron skillet or flat-top griddle over medium-high heat. You do not need much oil because the beef will release its own fat. Place the tortilla beef-side down onto the hot surface. Use a heavy press or a sturdy spatula to press down firmly. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until the beef is fully browned and develops a deep, caramelized crust.
- Step 4: Flip and Melt: Carefully flip the tostada over so the tortilla side is now touching the pan. Immediately place a slice of cheese on top of the cooked beef. Cover the pan with a lid for 30 seconds to help the cheese melt perfectly while the tortilla underneath becomes golden brown and crispy.
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve: Remove the tostada from the pan. Top it with a generous handful of shredded lettuce, a sprinkle of diced onions, and several pickle slices. Drizzle the prepared secret sauce over the top. Serve immediately while the base is still hot and extra crunchy.
- Cook Time: 25 minutes