Step 1: Divide the ground beef into 8 equal, loose balls (about 2 oz each). Do not pack them tightly. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Prepare all your desired toppings and have your cheese slices ready.
Step 2: Place a large cast-iron skillet or flat-top griddle over high heat. Let it get screaming hot. While the griddle heats, warm your tortillas. You can wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds, or heat them briefly in a separate dry skillet until pliable.
Step 3: Once the griddle is very hot, place two beef balls on the surface, leaving space between them. Immediately place a piece of parchment paper over each ball and use a sturdy metal spatula to press down firmly and evenly for about 10-15 seconds, smashing the beef into a thin, wide patty. The edges should be lacy and crispy. Remove the parchment paper.
Step 4: Cook the smashed patties for 1-2 minutes until a dark, crispy crust forms on the bottom. Immediately flip the patties. Place a slice of cheese on top of each patty. If desired, you can place a warm tortilla directly on top of the cheese-covered patty to warm further and absorb some of the beefy flavor.
Step 5: Carefully transfer the cheesy smashed patty (and tortilla if placed on top) to another warmed tortilla. Repeat the smashing, cooking, and cheesing process with the remaining beef balls until all patties are cooked.
Step 6: Pile high with your favorite toppings – shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, pickles, jalapeños, and a generous drizzle of your chosen sauce. Serve your Smashed Burger Tacos immediately while hot and fresh.