Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, use a whisk to combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, vinegar, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Set this special sauce aside to let the flavors meld.

Prep the Toppings: Finely slice the iceberg lettuce and chop the pickles. It is important to have these ready before you start cooking the beef, as the assembly process moves very quickly.

Season the Beef: In a bowl, mix the ground beef with salt and black pepper. Divide the meat into four equal portions.

Assemble the Raw Tacos: Press a thin layer of the ground beef directly onto each small flour tortilla. Ensure the beef covers the surface thinly and evenly. Avoid using pre-made patties, as they are too thick for this method.

Heat the Pan: Preheat a large griddle or skillet over high heat until it is smoking. Add a small amount of vegetable oil to the pan.

Smash and Cook: Place the tortilla beef-side down onto the hot pan. Immediately use a heavy, flat object like a burger press or the bottom of a saucepan to smash the tortilla down firmly. This ensures the beef makes maximum contact with the pan to create a golden crust. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes.

Flip and Melt: Flip the tortilla so the beef side is now facing up. Place two slices of American cheese on top of the beef. Cover the pan with a lid for about 30 seconds to help the cheese melt quickly while the tortilla side gets golden and crisp.

Final Assembly: Remove the taco from the pan. Top with the sliced lettuce, chopped pickles, and a generous drizzle of the homemade sauce. Fold in half and serve immediately.