Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 flatbreads or naan (about 8 inches each)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dill pickle slices
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- Fresh lettuce leaves (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for cooking
Substitution tips: If you prefer a lighter cheese, try mozzarella or a mild Colby Jack. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flatbreads or thinly sliced portobello mushrooms as a base. And if you want to go vegetarian, substitute the beef with plant-based crumbles or seasoned lentils.
Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- Season the beef with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7 to 10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Place each flatbread on the baking sheet. Evenly distribute the cooked ground beef over each flatbread.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the beef. Add thinly sliced red onions and dill pickle slices.
- Bake the flatbreads in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden at the edges.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle ketchup and mustard over each flatbread. Add fresh lettuce leaves if you like a bit of crunch and freshness.
- Slice into quarters and serve immediately. I love how this part always sparks a little competition between Ouma and me—who gets the biggest, cheesiest piece!
One personal tip I learned from Mama Lou: don’t skip the resting time for the flatbreads right after baking. Let them cool for a minute or two to avoid burning your mouth but not so long that the cheese starts to harden. It’s those small moments that make the experience just right.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International

