9 Best Gas Grills with Side Burners (November 2026)
The best gas grills with side burners include the Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner Gas Grill for stainless steel durability, the cookit 39000 BTU Output Propane Gas Grill for family grilling, and the Electactic 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side for compact meal prep.
On this page (6 sections)
- The best gas grills with side burners for different cooks
- How we chose these gas grills with side burners
- What should you check before buying a gas grill side burner?
- How do you use a gas grill side burner?
- How do you clean and care for a gas grill with side burner?
- Which best gas grill with side burner should you choose?
The best gas grill with side burner is the Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner Gas Grill for most outdoor cooks. It combines 4 main burners, a 10,000 BTU side burner, 383 sq in of cooking space and stainless steel construction.
Choose the Charbroil Pro Series if you want gas, griddle and charcoal cooking in one unit. For the largest cooking area, look at the Nexgrill 5-Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner.
A side burner helps you cook sauces, vegetables and other sides beside the main grate. It works best when you use the grill as an outdoor cooking station instead of treating it as a place for meat alone.
If you aren't sure how much grate space you need, start with What Size Gas Grill Do I Need?. Smaller households may prefer the layout of a best two burner gas grill, while natural gas shoppers can compare natural gas grills with side burner.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for stainless steel durabilityElectactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner Gas Grill
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for family grillingcookit 39000 BTU Output Propane Gas Grill
9.3/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for compact meal prepElectactic 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side
9.0/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itCharbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared Technology
Best for multi-fuel cooking - 5
Check itCharbroil Performance Series 4-Burner Gas Grill Cabinet
Best for everyday outdoor meals - 6
Check itcookit 49000 BTU Propane Gas Grill
Best for large cooking zones - 7
Best for warming spaceCheck it - 8
Check itNexgrill 5-Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner
Best for big cookouts - 9
Check itVeralune 5 Burner Gas Grill with Side
Best for storage and mobility
The best gas grills with side burners for different cooks
The best gas grill with side burner depends on your cooking space, fuel setup and need for extra modes. We compared burner counts, stated cooking areas, materials, side burner output and cleanup features.
Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner Gas Grill: Best for stainless steel durability
- 4 main burners
- 10,000 BTU side burner
- 383 sq in cooking surface
- 42000 BTU total output
This 4-burner propane grill combines stainless steel construction with a 10,000 BTU side burner for sauces, vegetables and warming sides.
Pros
- Stainless steel construction
- Built-in 0 to 1000 F thermometer
- Rear-sloping grease tray
Cons
- Larger footprint than smaller grills
- Propane fuel only
The Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner Gas Grill is the strongest all-around choice for buyers who want a durable propane grill with a separate cooking area. Its 4 stainless steel main burners provide a broad heat layout, while the 10,000 BTU side burner handles sauces, vegetables or warm sides.
The grill has 383 sq in of cooking surface, 3 porcelain-enameled grilling grids and a warming rack. Its built-in thermometer reads from 0 to 1000 F, so you can monitor heat without lifting the lid.
The stainless steel body, shelves and structural components suit outdoor use. A double-wall lid helps retain heat, while the rear-sloping grease tray and removable drip cup direct grease away from the burners.
Choose this grill if construction and side burner output matter more than a compact footprint. The 22.44 x 50.98 x 43.7 in dimensions need a planned patio or backyard position.
cookit 39000 BTU Output Propane Gas Grill: Best for family grilling
- 3 main burners
- 9,000 BTU side burner
- 372 sq in cooking surface
- Cast iron grids
The cookit gives family cooks a cast iron cooking surface, 3 main burners and a side burner for simmering or melting.
Pros
- Cast iron grids
- Electronic ignition
- Slide-out grease tray
Cons
- Metal frame is powder coated
- Smaller main burner count than 4-burner picks
The cookit 39000 BTU Output Propane Gas Grill suits family meals that need a cast iron cooking surface and simple heat control. For more options in this burner count, see three-burner gas grills.
Its 3 main burners and 9,000 BTU side burner give you separate areas for the main food and a saucepan.
The cooking surface measures 372 sq in. Cast iron grids retain heat, while the stainless steel heat distribution system is designed for even cooking across the grate.
A double-layer stainless steel lid helps hold heat around the food. The grill also includes electronic ignition, a built-in thermometer, side storage, tool hooks and a slide-out grease tray with a removable cup.
This is a good fit when 3 burners provide enough heat zones for your menu. For a four-burner layout, see our four-burner gas grill guide.
Choose a 4- or 5-burner model if you often cook several foods at different temperatures.
Electactic 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side: Best for compact meal prep
- 3 main burners
- 10,000 BTU side burner
- 373 sq in cooking surface
- Porcelain-enameled grates
This Electactic model gives you 3 main burners, a 10,000 BTU side burner and porcelain-enameled grates in a free-standing outdoor grill.
Pros
- Porcelain-enameled grates
- Rear-draw grease system
- Double-layer hood
Cons
- No natural gas option stated
- Portable configuration may not suit every patio
The Electactic 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side is a practical choice for cooks who want nearly the same main cooking area as the top pick with one fewer main burner. It provides 373 sq in of cooking surface and a 10,000 BTU side burner for a saucepan beside the grate.
Its porcelain-enameled grates give you a non-stick surface that is easier to wipe after cooking. The double-layer hood helps retain heat, and the built-in gauge reads from 0 to 1000 F so you can check the lid temperature without opening it.
A rear-draw slant grease tray and removable grease cup help move residue away from the cooking area. Hidden tool hooks keep utensils near the side shelf, which helps when you are turning food and seasoning at the same time.
This model suits small families and routine patio cooking where three heat zones are enough. If you regularly need more than 3 heat zones, compare it with a best three burner gas grill with side burner before deciding.
Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared Technology: Best for multi-fuel cooking
- 4 main burners
- Side burner
- 535 sq in primary space
- Gas, griddle and charcoal modes
This Charbroil combines gas, griddle and charcoal cooking with a side burner, making it the most flexible pick in this group.
Pros
- 3-in-1 cooking setup
- Included griddle insert and charcoal trays
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- Heaviest grill in the group
- Requires more space for its 61.4 in width
The Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared Technology is the best choice here for buyers who want more than standard propane grilling. This 3-in-1 unit supports gas grilling, griddle cooking and charcoal cooking, with a side burner for sauces and sides.
It has 535 sq in of primary cooking space and a 200 sq in warming rack, for 802.9 sq in of stated total cooking surface. The included griddle insert and charcoal trays let you change the cooking setup without buying separate appliances.
Charbroil's Amplifire cooking system is designed to help reduce flare-ups. The grill also has porcelain-coated cast iron grates, stainless steel burners and precise temperature control for moving between searing and slower cooking.
At 61.4 in wide and 178.2 lb, this is the largest and heaviest pick here. Choose it when cooking flexibility matters more than easy movement or a small patio footprint, and plan a firm spot where it can stay put.
Charbroil Performance Series 4-Burner Gas Grill Cabinet: Best for everyday outdoor meals
- 4 main burners
- 11,000 BTU side burner
- 435 sq in primary space
- 130 sq in warming rack
The Performance Series is a practical cabinet-style grill for burgers, chicken, vegetables and sauces, with a 4-burner layout.
Pros
- Porcelain-coated cast iron grates
- 3-in-1 upgrade path
- 2-year limited warranty
Cons
- Griddle and charcoal accessories are sold separately
- Dimensions vary between measurements
The Charbroil Performance Series 4-Burner Gas Grill Cabinet is a practical everyday choice for cooking full meals outdoors. Its 435 sq in primary cooking space gives you room for burgers, chicken, vegetables and skewers, while the 11,000 BTU side burner handles sauces and sides.
The 130 sq in warming rack gives cooked food a separate place away from the main grate. Porcelain-coated cast iron grates retain heat for searing and support routine grilling through the season.
This cabinet-style grill can later work with Charbroil griddle and charcoal accessories sold separately. Those accessories are useful if you want more cooking options without replacing the main grill, but they are not included in this package.
Choose this model for a straightforward 4-burner layout and cabinet storage. If you want those extra modes included from the start, the Charbroil Pro Series is the better match.
cookit 49000 BTU Propane Gas Grill: Best for large cooking zones
- 4 main burners
- 9,000 BTU side burner
- 431 sq in cooking surface
- Cast iron grids and griddle plate
This cookit offers 4 main burners, 431 sq in of cooking surface and a side burner for sauces and sides.
Pros
- Cast iron grids
- Included griddle plate
- Double-layer stainless steel dome
Cons
- Powder-coated finish
- Side burner output is lower than some picks here
The cookit 49000 BTU Propane Gas Grill is suited to buyers who want a larger cooking zone than the 372 sq in cookit model. It has 431 sq in of cooking surface, 4 main burners and a 9,000 BTU side burner for pans.
Cast iron grids provide a heat-retaining surface, and the grill includes a griddle plate for foods that do not suit open grates. The double-layer stainless steel dome helps hold heat during cooking, which matters for chicken and thicker cuts.
Tool holders, wings, a built-in thermometer, a bottle opener and storage space keep common grilling items close to the cooking area. A full-extension grease tray and detachable cup support cleanup after meals, so you can empty it before drippings harden.
This grill makes sense for cooks who want a 4-burner layout and griddle option. Its powder-coated finish may be less appealing than the stainless steel construction on the top Electactic pick.
Endark: Best for warming space
- 4 stainless steel burners
- 9,000 BTU side burner
- 344 sq in primary grid
- 108 sq in warming rack
Endark gives you a 344 sq in main grid plus a 108 sq in warming rack, along with a side burner for sauces or sides.
Pros
- 452 sq in total cooking surface
- Cast iron main grid
- Cover included in the title
Cons
- Portable configuration still needs a broad footprint
- Side burner output is 9,000 BTU
Endark suits cooks who value a separate warming area as much as the main grate. The grill has 344 sq in of primary cast iron cooking space plus a 108 sq in warming rack, for 452 sq in of stated total cooking space.
Four stainless steel burners provide the main heat, while the 9,000 BTU side burner is intended for sauces and sides. The warming rack can hold buns, vegetables or cooked food while the main grate stays available for the next batch.
The heat-resistant lid and stainless steel handle support covered cooking. A grease tray collects drippings, and a middle rack provides room for condiments, oil bottles and tools so the side table does not get crowded.
Choose Endark when you want a broad warming rack in a free-standing outdoor grill. Its 17.3 x 47.2 x 44.8 in dimensions still need careful patio planning, especially with the side burner open.
Nexgrill 5-Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner: Best for big cookouts
- 5 main burners
- 618 sq in cooking surface
- Porcelain cast iron grates
- Side burner
The Nexgrill gives large gatherings the biggest stated cooking surface here, with 5 main burners and a side burner.
Pros
- Largest cooking surface in this group
- Porcelain cast iron grates
- Electronic ignition
Cons
- Widest height at 51 in
- Side burner BTU is not consistent across the supplied product details
The Nexgrill 5-Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner is the best fit for large cookouts that need the most stated cooking space in this group. It provides 618 sq in of cooking surface, 5 main burners and a separate side burner.
Porcelain cast iron grates retain heat and provide a durable cooking surface for steaks, vegetables and seafood. The grill also has angled flame tamers, an electronic ignition and a built-in thermometer.
The 5-burner layout gives you more room to create heat zones. That matters when one part of the meal needs higher heat while another part cooks more slowly, such as searing steaks beside peppers or chicken.
Choose Nexgrill if your meals regularly fill a large grate. Its 24.3 x 46.6 x 51 in dimensions make it one of the taller options, so check the space around and above the grill before you place it.
Veralune 5 Burner Gas Grill with Side: Best for storage and mobility
- 5 main burners
- 68,000 BTU stated total
- 548 sq in cooking surface
- Storage space and tool hooks
Veralune combines 5 main burners, 548 sq in of cooking space, side prep tables and bottom storage for a complete patio station.
Pros
- Large cooking surface
- Bottom storage space
- Wheels for movement
Cons
- Needs level ground
- BTU details differ between supplied descriptions
The Veralune 5 Burner Gas Grill with Side is a strong choice for buyers who want cooking space plus storage. It has 548 sq in of cooking surface, 5 main burners, side prep tables and bottom storage for utensils, seasonings and the gas tank.
The side burner adds a separate place for sauces and sides. Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are designed to retain heat and resist rust and cracking, while tool hooks keep utensils close when you are working both sides of the grill.
Two wheels make the 88 lb grill easier to move across a patio or yard. Veralune advises placing it on flat ground so the grill does not tilt, and that level setup also helps grease move to the tray instead of pooling.
Choose this model when storage and mobility matter as much as burner count. Confirm the exact BTU details before buying because the supplied product descriptions give different totals.
How we chose these gas grills with side burners
We compared the stated burner counts, cooking areas, side burner outputs, materials and cooking modes against the needs of someone searching for the best gas grill with side burner. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
A side burner is most useful when you cook more than meat. Look for a clear side burner output, enough side-table space for a pan and a main grate large enough to keep the primary food moving.
Burner count affects heat zones. Three burners can suit normal family meals, while 4 or 5 burners give you more room to separate high, medium and lower heat.
Cooking surface measurements also need context. A total area may include a warming rack, so compare the primary cooking space when you need room for several steaks, burgers or vegetables.
Materials matter for daily use and care. Stainless steel resists weather in a different way from powder-coated or painted metal, and cast iron or porcelain-enameled grates change how food releases and how you clean after a meal.
Cleanup design is not a small detail. A slide-out tray, rear-draw tray or removable cup can make emptying grease simpler, and that affects how often you will keep the grill in good shape.
We also looked at footprint and weight. A wide or heavy grill may offer more space, but it needs a clear patio area and a spot where you can leave it without moving it often.
Modes beyond propane grilling changed the ranking for some cooks. A grill that includes griddle or charcoal parts in the box is different from one that only supports those options with separate accessories.
What should you check before buying a gas grill side burner?
First, measure the patio space, including the side burner wing when it is open. The widest models here extend beyond 50 in, and you need room to stand safely around the grill.
Next, confirm the fuel type. These picks use gas or propane, and none should be connected to a different fuel source unless the manufacturer specifically supports it.
Look at the grate material and cleanup design. Cast iron can hold heat well, while porcelain-enameled surfaces can make food release and wiping easier.
Grease trays and removable cups reduce the work after cooking. Check where the tray sits and how you empty it, because a hard to reach tray can discourage regular cleaning.
Finally, decide whether you need one cooking mode or several. The Charbroil Pro Series includes gas, griddle and charcoal functions, while other models focus on propane grilling with a side burner.
Measure height as well as width. A tall lid needs clearance above it, and you also need space to open the lid fully without hitting a wall, fence or patio cover.
Think about who will move the grill. Wheels help on a flat patio, but a heavy cabinet grill is easier if you place it once and keep it there for the season.
Check the side table layout before you buy. You need a stable place for a pan, plates and utensils, and the side burner should not crowd the main cooking area.
Look at ignition and controls in daily use. Electronic ignition and a built-in thermometer are helpful, but clear burner controls matter more once the grill is hot and you have food on the grate.
Consider storage under the grill. Cabinet space or a bottom shelf can hold tools, fuel parts and seasonings, but only if it fits your patio furniture and spare items.
Plan for care from the start. Stainless steel, cast iron and porcelain-coated parts each need cleaning and drying after use, especially if the grill stays outdoors in rain or humidity.
How do you use a gas grill side burner?
Use the side burner for a saucepan or small pan while the main grate cooks the primary food. Keep the pan stable, leave the burner area clear, and follow the grill's instructions for ignition and fuel connections.
Start with a low or medium flame when warming sauces or sides. Increase heat only when the pan and food require it, and keep handles turned away from walkways.
The side burner is also useful for holding a steady simmer while the main lid stays closed. That helps you prepare a full meal without carrying hot cookware between the grill and indoor kitchen.
Put the pan on the side burner before you light it when possible. That keeps your hand away from a hot surface and makes it easier to set the pan down level.
Use a pan that fits the burner and will not tip. A wide, heavy pan is steadier than a narrow one, and long handles should point away from people walking past the grill.
Keep the side area free of towels, spray bottles and loose utensils. Heat from the burner can damage nearby items, and a clear surface gives you room to set a lid or spoon safely.
Match the flame to the pan size. A flame that spreads far beyond the base wastes gas and can heat the side table, while too little flame will take longer to bring a sauce to a simmer.
Stir sauces while the main food cooks. That prevents scorching on one side and helps you time the side dish to finish when the meat is ready.
Do not use the side burner as a prep table when it is lit. Turn it off and let it cool before you set plates or raw food near the burner.
After cooking, turn the burner off and let the pan cool before you move it. In some cases it is safer to lift the pan with mitts and carry it a short distance to a heat safe surface.
How do you clean and care for a gas grill with side burner?
Clean the grates after they cool enough to handle safely, then remove grease from the tray and cup according to the grill's instructions. A full grease tray can increase flare-up risk during later cooking.
Keep the side burner openings clear of food residue. Do not pour water into the burner or ignition area, and inspect the hose and connections before using propane.
For more detail, see How Do You Clean The Burners On A Gas Grill?. Our guide to the Best Grill Burner can also help when a burner needs closer attention.
Cover the grill when it is cool and dry, if the model's care instructions support a cover. Stainless steel, painted metal and porcelain-coated parts still need regular cleaning in outdoor weather.
Which best gas grill with side burner should you choose?
Pick the Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner Gas Grill if you want the strongest mix of stainless steel construction, 4 main burners, 383 sq in of space and a 10,000 BTU side burner.
Choose the Charbroil Pro Series if gas, griddle and charcoal cooking are all important. Pick the Nexgrill for the largest stated cooking surface, or the cookit 39000 BTU model for a smaller 3-burner layout with cast iron grids.
The right gas grill side burner is the one that matches your meal size, patio space and fuel setup. Measure first, then choose the burner count and cooking modes you will use most.
If you cook for a small household, a 3-burner model may be simpler to heat and clean. If you host groups, a 4 or 5 burner layout gives you more room to keep food at different temperatures.
Pay attention to the primary grate size, not only the total area. Warming racks help at serving time, but the main grate is where steaks, chicken and vegetables need room during cooking.
Match the decision to how you cook each week. A side burner earns its place when sauces, beans, vegetables or butter are part of the meal, not only when you grill meat.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for stainless steel durability
Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner Gas Grill
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for family grilling
cookit 39000 BTU Output Propane Gas Grill
9.3/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for compact meal prep
Electactic 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side
9.0/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What is the best gas grill with side burner?
The Electactic Stainless Steel 4-Burner Gas Grill is the best gas grill with side burner for most cooks in this group. It has 4 main burners, a 10,000 BTU side burner, 383 sq in of cooking space, stainless steel construction and a built-in thermometer.
What can you cook on a grill side burner?
A grill side burner is useful for sauces, vegetables, beans, butter, water and other small pans. It lets you keep a saucepan beside the main grate while burgers, chicken or steaks cook under the lid.
How many burners should a gas grill have?
Choose 3 burners for routine family meals, 4 burners for separate heat zones and larger cookouts, or 5 burners for a broad cooking surface. A side burner adds a separate place for sauces and sides, but it doesn't replace the main burners.
Are gas grills with side burners worth it?
Gas grills with side burners are useful when you want to cook a full meal outdoors. The extra burner keeps sauces and sides beside the grill, which saves trips inside.
If you only grill meat, a larger main grate may matter more than the side burner.
