Answering the question “which outdoor grill with a side burner should I buy?” this guide presents five well-rounded options that balance power, durability, and practicality. These grills are best for backyard cooks who want to simmer sauces or boil sides while grilling mains. Ideal buyers include weekend entertainers, family meal preppers, and anyone upgrading to a more capable outdoor kitchen setup. Below, you’ll find concise product highlights, who each grill is best for, and practical considerations to help you compare at a glance.
| Product | BTU / Cooking Space | Best For | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand-Man Propane Gas Grill Island | 52,000 BTU total; 5 burners | All-around backyard chefs needing big power and storage | Natural gas convertible |
| Monument Grills 4+1 Burner | 50,000 BTU; extra side burner | Fast heating with convenient control | Knob lights |
| Nexgrill Propane 4 Burner | 60,000 BTU; 462 sq in cooking space | Large gatherings, built-in thermometer | Stainless steel frame |
| DEPOTS 3 Burner + Side Burner | 39,000 BTU; side burner | Value-focused buyers who want storage | Porcelain enamel and cast iron |
| Propane Gas Grill 4 Burner Griddle & Grill | 49,000 BTU; side burner | Versatile cooks needing griddle option | Griddle & grill combo |
Brand-Man Propane Gas Grill Island
Brand-Man’s outdoor island grill delivers a robust 52,000 BTU across five burners, plus a side burner for sauces and sides. It’s ideal for buyers seeking a built-in kitchen feel with extra cabinet storage. Choose this if you want a larger cooking footprint and extensive heat control for family barbecues.
Monument Grills 4+1 Burner
Monument Grills 4+1 Burner offers a natural gas-ready setup with a fast heating profile and knob lighting for low-light grilling sessions. This model is best for cooks who prioritize quick startup, visible controls, and a clean, modern stainless look. It’s a solid pick for medium to large gatherings where a reliable heat source is essential.
Nexgrill Propane 4 Burner Gas Grill
Nexgrill’s propane grill features a robust 60,000 BTU output and a large 462-square-inch cooking area, plus a built-in thermometer for precise doneness. The double-door cabinet design provides secure storage and a tidy outdoor setup. This grill is best for those who value high heat capacity, expansive space for proteins and vegetables, and a weather-resistant build. Consider this if you host frequent outdoor barbecues and need dependable heat control.
3 Burner Propane Gas Grill With Side Burner
DEPOTS presents a 3-burner option with a dedicated side burner and a bottom cabinet for propane tank storage. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates deliver good sear marks, even heat, and easy cleanup. This model is best for budget-conscious buyers who still want a full outdoor cabinet setup and reliable side-burner versatility. A limitation to note is the relatively lower total BTU output, which may affect searing on very large cooks.
Propane Gas Grill 4 Burner Griddle & Grill Combo
The 4-burner model combines a grill with a reversible porcelain-enameled cast-iron griddle. A side burner adds functional flexibility for sauces, sides, or vegetables. This option is best for cooks who want a versatile, space-saving unit that can switch between grill searing and griddle cooking. The trade-off is that the griddle surface may require extra care to maintain non-stick performance in wet climates.
Buying Guide
How much cooking space do you need?
Consider the total square inches of cooking surface and any warming rack space. Larger families or frequent entertaining benefit from grills in the 450–600 square inch range, plus extra space for sides on the warming rack.
Is a side burner essential?
A side burner lets you simmer sauces, melt butter, or keep beans warm without leaving the grill. If you regularly host gatherings with sides or sauces, prioritize a model with a dedicated side burner.
What about BTU and heat management?
BTU indicates total power, but efficiency depends on burner design and grill construction. Look for models with multiple main burners and good heat distribution to avoid hot spots and ensure even cooking.
Should you choose stainless steel?
Stainless steel frames and grates resist corrosion and weathering, offering longer life in outdoor conditions. Porcelain-enamel-coated cast iron grates provide excellent sear marks but require more care to prevent rust.
Storage and durability considerations
Cabinet-style grills help keep propane tanks, tools, and accessories organized. Ensure the cabinet is tall enough to accommodate common tank sizes and features a sturdy door design for long-term use.
Fuel type and installation
Most models in this guide are propane-based, with some convertible to natural gas. If you plan to switch fuels, verify the conversion options and local code requirements before purchase.
Maintenance tips
- Regularly clean grates to maintain non-stick performance and sear quality.
- Inspect burners and connections for wear or leaks.
- Season and protect grates to extend their life in outdoor environments.
What to compare next to gas grills with side burners
- Portability vs. built-in style: Do you need a standalone grill or a kitchen island?
- Cabinet features: Storage, doors, and accessibility.
- Griddle vs. grill emphasis: Are you cooking more eggs and vegetables or larger cuts of meat?
FAQ
- What’s the best grill for big families? A model with a large cooking area (around 450–600 sq in) and multiple main burners plus a side burner.
- Is a side burner worth it for outdoor cooking? Yes, it enables sauces and sides to be prepared while grilling mains, improving workflow.
- Are stainless steel grills more durable? Stainless steel frames resist corrosion; porcelain enamel grates resist sticking and heat but require maintenance.
- Can these grills connect to natural gas? Some models are convertible to natural gas; check conversion options and local gas availability.
- How should I maintain cast iron grates? Clean after use, dry thoroughly, and apply a light oil to prevent rust.
- Which grill offers the best value? Compare BTU per dollar, total cooking space, and included features like side burners and storage.