Finding the right side burner to complement your grill can elevate outdoor cooking from casual barbecue to versatile outdoor kitchen. This guide highlights five popular options that pair well with mainstream gas grills, delivering extra simmering space, warming capabilities, and convenient heat management. Each product below is evaluated for heat output, cooking area, durability, and ease of cleaning, helping you compare what matters most when you’re planning weekend cookouts or backyard parties.
Summary of selected products:
| Product | Brand | BTU (If Available) | Main Cooking Area | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EUHOME 4-Burner Gas Grill With Side Burner | EUHOME | 46,500 total BTU (including side burner) | 458 sq in total (332.28 main) | Enameled cast iron grates for sear & durability |
| Monument Grills 4+1 Outdoor Barbecue | Monument Grills | 62,000 BTU total | 630 sq in total (450 main) | High-heat sear zone up to 650°F |
| Electactic 3-Burner With Side Burner | Electactic | 34,000 BTU | 489.17 sq in total | Stainless steel upper, portable with wheels |
| Captiva Designs 4-Burner With Side Burner | Captiva Designs | 46,700 BTU | 510 sq in total (360 main) | Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates, higher cooking height |
| Char-Broil Classic Convective 2-Burner | Char-Broil | NN/A | 280 sq in primary | Reliable value with side burner for sauces |
EUHOME 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill With Side Burner
The EUHOME model combines a four-burner grill with an additional side burner for sauce pans, sides, or quick reductions. It delivers a total 46,500 BTU, including an 8,500 BTU side burner, which helps maintain consistent cooking temperatures across main and auxiliary dishes. The grill area spans 458 square inches, with a main grilling zone of 332.28 square inches and a warming rack of 125.28 square inches—ample space for entertaining groups of 10 or more. Heavy-duty enameled cast iron grates promote even heat retention and easier cleanup, resisting rust and sticking for longer-term durability.
Features in review emphasize preheating speed, even heat distribution, and robust construction. The enameled cast iron grates are a notable upgrade for sear quality and longevity, while the side burner provides flexibility for sides and sauces without crowding the main grill. This unit is positioned for backyard gatherings, poolside entertaining, and outdoor kitchens that require both searing capability and auxiliary cooking space.
Char-Broil Classic Series Convective 3-Burner With Side Burner
This Char-Broil model offers a mid-sized grilling footprint with three main burners and a side burner, designed for quick heat-up and steady temperature control. It provides 360 square inches of primary cooking space plus a 170-square-inch warming rack, enabling simultaneous main grilling and indirect cooking. The 8,000 BTU side burner is ideal for keeping sauces warm, boiling corn, or preparing sides while the main grill handles burgers, chicken, or roasts. The design focuses on reliable performance and straightforward maintenance, making it a practical choice for casual weekend BBQs and family meals.
Users can expect fast preheating, consistent heat distribution, and simple ignition. While not the top-end option for the most demanding griller, this model pairs a compact footprint with essential side-burner functionality, making it a sensible choice for those who want extra cooking space without overextending their outdoor setup.
Monument Grills 4+1 Outdoor Barbecue
The Monument Grills 4+1 configuration combines four main burners with a dedicated side burner, delivering a robust 62,000 total BTU output. The 450 square inches of primary cooking space and a 180 square inch warming rack total 630 square inches, providing ample room to handle large gatherings, including a roasted turkey or multiple platters. The unit emphasizes high-temperature performance with a specialized sear zone capable of reaching around 650°F in minutes, helping achieve restaurant-like sear marks. Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates promote even heat and simple cleaning, while the overall design supports versatile cooking needs—from high-heat searing to indirect cooking for larger cuts.
Designed for serious backyard chefs, this grill excels when feeding a crowd and wanting to maximize both speed and flavor. The combination of efficient flame control and a broad cooking surface makes it a strong contender for those planning frequent outdoor entertaining with a focus on sear quality and heat retention.
cookit 49000 BTU Side Burner Grill
This model touts a high-output 49,000 BTU cooking system with four main burners and a 9,000 BTU side burner for sauces and sides. The design emphasizes expanded cooking zones and a dual-layer lid with “Flavor Vault” technology to trap heat for more even cooking and better moisture retention. Cast iron grills paired with a stainless steel body aim to deliver durable performance and improved searing capability. The setup is well-suited for game-day gatherings or large family barbecues, where the primary grill handles the main proteins and the side burner handles sauces and sides without crowding the grill surface.
Key considerations include heat zoning, the quality of the cast iron grates, and the ease of cleaning—the slide-out grease management and lid insulation contribute to more efficient, less messy grilling sessions. For grillers who value flavor retention and consistent high heat, this option provides a balanced combination of power and practicality.
Captiva Designs 4-Burner With Side Burner
The Captiva Designs model spotlights a higher cooking height at 35.5 inches, which reduces bending and improves comfort during long grilling sessions. Its total cooking area reaches 510 square inches, with 360 square inches in the primary zone and 150 square inches for warming. A porcelain-enameled cast iron grate is a highlight, combining the benefits of cast iron with enamel for easier cleaning and better nonstick properties. The build includes robust stainless steel burners and a slide-out grease tray system to simplify cleanup after grilling. This unit is well-suited for families and gatherings where comfort, cooking space, and durable materials are priorities.
Prospective buyers should consider the height adjustment, the balance of main versus warming space, and the ease of maintenance given the porcelain-enameled grates. Overall, this grill blends strong build quality with practical features for regular outdoor cooking sessions.
Char-Broil Classic Series Convective 2-Burner With Side Burner
This Char-Broil model balances compact design with a dependable side burner setup. It offers 280 square inches of primary cooking space along with an 8,000 BTU side burner for warming sauces, side dishes, or coffee brewing at the grill’s edge. The grill is powered by a standard propane setup, and the straightforward ignition system supports quick starts. This option is ideal for shoppers seeking an affordable, reliable side burner grill that still provides adequate space for weeknight meals or smaller family gatherings. The focus remains on dependable performance, straightforward cleaning, and a compact footprint that fits smaller patios or balconies without sacrificing essential side-burner functionality.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Heat output and zoning: Higher total BTU and a capable side burner enable faster preheating and simultaneous cooking of mains and sides. Look for models with independent control of side burners for flexibility.
- Cooking area: Consider both main grilling space and warming racks. Large gatherings benefit from spacious primary zones and ample warming area for sides and sauces.
- Grate material and maintenance: Porcelain-enameled cast iron offers durability and excellent heat retention, but requires regular cleaning to prevent rust. Stainless steel grates provide corrosion resistance with easy upkeep.
- Grill height and ergonomics: A higher cooking surface reduces strain during long sessions. Check overall dimensions to ensure the grill fits your outdoor space and lineup with your primary grill.
- Cleaning and grease management: Slide-out grease trays and accessible drip systems simplify post-grill cleanup and reduce buildup in hard-to-reach areas.
- Portability and assembly: If you plan to move the grill or relocate it seasonally, consider models with wheels and straightforward assembly guidelines.
- Build quality and materials: Look for sturdy stainless steel construction, robust burners, and reinforced lid hinges for longevity in outdoor environments.
- Warranty and support: A solid warranty and responsive customer support can be decisive if you encounter burner or grate issues after purchase.