Top your next burger with this luxurious, creamy cheese to take it to the next level.

When you're making a cheeseburger, goat cheese probably isn't your first choice to melt over the patty, but here's why you should consider it. Goat cheese, also known as chèvre, has a slightly tangy flavor and, when melted, becomes incredibly creamy and spreadable. That characteristic tang of goat cheese pairs perfectly with the umami of seasoned ground beef, transforming your burger from bland to sophisticated and gourmet.

If you let a piece of goat cheese soften at room temperature (even better if you marinate it in olive oil and other seasonings), it will be very easy to spread on toasted bread when you're making your burger. Then, it will melt even more when you place it between the bun and a hot, freshly grilled (or even oven-baked) beef patty. While you can't go wrong with a classic burger made with cheddar or American cheese, there's nothing wrong with wanting to innovate and get creative with the ingredients, and a burger is the perfect place to do so.

The combinations of ingredients are very varied.

Although Anthony Bourdain was a cheeseburger purist who believed they should be eaten with one hand, sometimes you just want a burger loaded with unique toppings that will leave your face and hands a mess. And when that craving strikes, don't ignore it. You can create the cheeseburger of your dreams with goat cheese and a variety of other ingredients. If you enjoy the combination of sweet and savory flavors, try spreading fig jam or honey on the bun and topping the patty with caramelized onions. Then, add arugula for a peppery note that will balance the sweetness of the jam and onions with the richness of the beef and goat cheese. The slightly tangy flavor of the goat cheese will be enhanced by the sweetness of the other ingredients, creating a delicious bite.

If you don't like sweet flavors, try adding roasted red peppers. Their sweetness is subtle, and they add a pleasant smoky note that pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of the goat cheese. Add a couple of slices of bacon for a crispy touch (use glazed bacon if you prefer something sweet). You can even add a portobello mushroom for a hearty, umami-rich burger that enhances the earthy undertones of the goat cheese. Goat cheese also works well in burgers that aren't made with beef. Try it on a turkey, lamb, or even vegetarian burger. Using goat cheese instead of a more classic option might seem like an odd but simple change, but it makes a big difference in flavor and elegance.