Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Place 1 tortilla in the pan.
Using a meat mallet or the bottom of a glass, gently press the beef patty into the tortilla, spreading it ½ inch below the tortilla’s edges.
Season beef immediately with salt, garlic powder, and pepper using tongs to avoid burning fingers.
Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the beef is browned and the tortilla is lightly crispy.
Sprinkle half the cheese over the beef, then top with another tortilla and flip as a single unit using a spatula and tortilla halves for leverage.
Cook 2-3 minutes until cheese melts and the second side is browned. Lift edges to check for golden tortilla edges.
Transfer to a plate, let rest 1 minute, then cut into quarters and serve with optional cilantro and salsa.