7 Best Side Burner Grills for 2026

I’ve spent way too many afternoons juggling pots between my kitchen stove and backyard grill, and I’m guessing you know the struggle. A side burner changes everything, letting you simmer sauces or boil corn without running back and forth.

For 2026, manufacturers finally get it: we want power that matches our main burners, not some weak afterthought. I’ve narrowed down seven models that actually deliver, from budget-friendly three-burners to serious six-burner setups with restaurant-grade side units. Some surprised me with their quality; others frustrated me with cheap igniters or cramped layouts.

I’ll walk you through what works, what doesn’t, and which grill earns its spot on your patio.

3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner

So, who needs a side burner grill that actually pulls its weight? I do, and I’m guessing you do too. The Electactic JD-3A delivers 34,000 BTU across three main burners plus a 10,500 BTU side burner. That’s real power for searing steaks while simmering sauce on the side.

I love the stainless steel body. It fights rust and looks sharp on my patio. The porcelain-enameled grates clean up fast, no scrubbing nightmare.

The double-layer hood traps heat well, and that built-in thermometer hits 1000°F so I know exactly what’s happening inside.

The little details matter here. Hidden tool hooks keep things tidy. The SUS304 bottle opener, that’s just fun. The slant grease tray slides out easy, no mess.

It’s portable enough for tailgating, tough enough for camping. Spacious cooking surface fits diverse foods. For family dinners or outdoor adventures, this grill works hard without breaking your back.

Best For: Home grillers who want versatile, high-powered cooking for family meals and outdoor adventures without sacrificing portability or durability.

Pros:

• Powerful 34,000 BTU output with dedicated side burner enables simultaneous searing and sauce preparation
• Premium stainless steel construction and porcelain-enameled grates resist rust and clean up easily
• Thoughtful convenience features including hidden tool hooks, built-in bottle opener, and easy-sliding grease tray

Cons:

• No mention of ignition system type or reliability
• Product weight and specific cooking surface dimensions not specified
• Limited brand recognition may affect long-term parts availability or customer support confidence

COWSAR 4-Burner Stainless Steel Gas Grill with Side Burner

Looking for a grill that won’t eat up your whole patio?

The COWSAR 4-Burner Stainless Steel Gas Grill with Side Burner packs serious power into a compact frame. I’ve got 42,000 BTUs across four main burners, plus that handy side burner for boiling corn or simmering sauce while I flip burgers.

The 525 square inches of total cooking space fits plenty for family cookouts, even with its space-saving design. Cleanup’s actually easy here. The pull-out grease tray slides right out, and the porcelain-coated cast iron grates don’t stick or rust.

Built-in hooks and a storage cabinet keep my tools organized. For backyard parties without the bulk, this COWSAR delivers solid value.

Best For: Homeowners with limited patio space who want a powerful, full-featured gas grill for family cookouts and weekend barbecues without sacrificing cooking capacity or convenience features.

Pros:

• Compact footprint with generous 525 sq.in. total cooking area and 42,000 BTUs, delivering full-size performance for small spaces
• Easy maintenance via pull-out grease tray and rust-resistant, non-stick porcelain-coated cast iron grates
• Versatile side burner plus built-in storage hooks and cabinet keep tools organized and expand cooking options

Cons:

• BLACK-1 color option may not suit all aesthetic preferences for stainless steel grill seekers
• 386 sq.in. primary grilling space may require batch cooking for very large gatherings
• Enameled cast iron grates, while durable, are heavier to handle than stainless steel alternatives during deep cleaning

Royal Gourmet 5-Burner Propane Gas Grill (GA5401T)

Why settle for juggling pots inside when you can simmer sauces right next to your steaks?

I’ve grilled on the Royal Gourmet GA5401T, and it’s a solid workhorse for backyard cooks who want space and power.

You get 602 square inches of total cooking area, with 476 on the main grates and a 126-square-inch warming rack. That’s enough room for burgers, dogs, and veggies all at once. The four main burners pump out 10,000 BTU each, plus a 12,000 BTU sear burner and a 9,000 BTU side burner.

I love closing the side burner lid for extra prep space when I’m not boiling corn. The stainless steel double-layer lid holds heat well, and startup’s easy: just turn to HI, press the ignitor, and you’re lit. At 61,000 BTU total, this grill heats fast and cooks pretty evenly.

Drawbacks? The silver finish shows smudges, and assembly takes a solid hour.

Pros:

• Huge cooking area for the price
• Versatile side burner doubles as shelf
• Strong sear burner for crisp steaks

Cons:

• Smudge-prone exterior
• Time-consuming setup

I’d recommend this for patio and picnic cooks who need room to feed a crowd.

Best For: Backyard cooks who need ample cooking space and versatile burner options for feeding a crowd.

Pros:

• Huge cooking area for the price
• Versatile side burner doubles as shelf
• Strong sear burner for crisp steaks

Cons:

• Smudge-prone exterior
• Time-consuming setup
• Silver finish requires frequent cleaning to maintain appearance

MELLCOM 36,000 BTU 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill

Need a solid grill that won’t break the bank? I’ve got you covered with the MELLCOM 36,000 BTU 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill.

This beast runs on heavy-duty steel with a multi-layer lid that keeps heat where it belongs. The ceramic-coated grates resist rust and wipe clean without drama. You get 395 square inches of cooking space, 24,000 BTUs across three burners, plus that 12,000 BTU side burner for simmering sauces or boiling corn.

Storage? Solid. Locked gas-tank slot, cabinet doors, side tables, and space for tools. Four wheels roll smooth, two lock for stability. Assembly’s straightforward, and customer service actually answers.

Perfect for patios, balconies, or camping trips with the family.

Best For: Budget-conscious outdoor cooking enthusiasts who want a versatile, portable grill with ample cooking space and reliable heat control for family gatherings on patios, balconies, or camping trips.

Pros:

• Excellent value with 36,000 total BTUs, ceramic-coated rust-resistant grates, and generous 395 sq. in. cooking area
• Thoughtful design features including lockable wheels for stability, multi-layer lid for heat retention, and practical storage with cabinet doors and side tables
• Reliable piezoelectric ignition with precise flame control and easy-clean surfaces that simplify maintenance

Cons:

• Assembly required with limited documentation, potentially frustrating for less handy users
• Heavy-duty steel construction may still show wear over time compared to premium stainless steel competitors
• 43.3-inch height and steel build create substantial weight, making true portability for camping more challenging than implied

VEVOR 15,000BTU Propane Side Burner for Outdoor Kitchen

Who’s building an outdoor kitchen on a budget? I’ve got a solid pick for you.

The VEVOR Single Grilling Side Burner delivers 15,000 BTUs in a compact, affordable package.

What I Like

This little guy handles frying, boiling, and stir-frying without hogging space. The 304 stainless steel body fights rust and wipes clean fast. The removable grille helps too.

I appreciate the integrated design, because less oil buildup means less scrubbing later.

Fuel Flexibility Wins

It comes set for propane but includes natural gas nozzles. That convertibility saves you money down the road if you switch fuel types.

Key Specs

• Cut-out needed: 19.5 x 11.6 x 8 inches
• Overall size: 20.47 x 12.6 x 11 inches
• Wind-resistant stainless cover included

The Trade-Offs

One burner means no multitasking. Wind performance is decent, not amazing. Country of origin isn’t stated, which bugs me slightly.

Bottom Line

For under-island installs and tight budgets, VEVOR’s GSB1 covers the basics well.

Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners building compact outdoor kitchens who need a single, versatile burner for basic cooking tasks like frying, boiling, and stir-frying.

Pros:

• Dual fuel compatibility with included natural gas conversion kit
• 304 stainless steel construction resists corrosion and cleans easily with removable grille
• Compact integrated design with wind-resistant cover fits standard cut-out dimensions for seamless island installation

Cons:

• Single burner limits cooking to one dish at a time with no multitasking capability
• Wind performance is adequate but not exceptional in challenging conditions
• Country of origin is unspecified, raising potential quality transparency concerns

Veralune 5 Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner, 68,000 BTU, 548 Sq in

Looking for a grill that handles big cookouts without hogging your whole patio? I found the Veralune 5 Burner Gas Grill, and it’s built for serious cooking without the footprint.

Power and Space

Five main burners plus a side burner pump out 68,000 BTU total. That side burner, it’s a lifesaver, simmering sauces while you sear steaks.

The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates hold heat beautifully and clean up surprisingly easy. No rust, no cracking, just solid performance.

Size That Works

You get 548 square inches of main cooking space. That’s enough room for burgers, dogs, and veggies all at once. Prep happens on the side tables, and there’s storage below for your tank and tools.

Moving It Around

Two sturdy wheels let me roll this across my patio and lawn. No back-breaking lifts, just tilt and go. The rust-resistant construction means I don’t panic about weather.

A Few Honest Notes

Assembly takes patience. The manual helps, but I needed customer service once.

Also, check the box on delivery, mine showed shipping wear. Place it on flat ground, too, or you’ll get some wobble.

This Veralune delivers big-grill performance with that handy side burner I now can’t live without.

Best For: Home grillers who host frequent outdoor cookouts for groups and need versatile cooking zones including a side burner for simultaneous sauce preparation.

Pros:

• Five main burners plus dedicated side burner deliver 68,000 BTU for powerful, flexible cooking with simultaneous searing and simmering capabilities
• Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates provide excellent heat retention, uniform cooking, and rust/crack resistance with easy cleanup
• Mobile design with two sturdy wheels allows effortless movement across patios and lawns without heavy lifting

Cons:

• Assembly requires patience and may need customer service assistance for some users
• Large packaging is prone to shipping wear and requires careful inspection upon delivery
• Requires flat ground placement to prevent wobbling, limiting setup location options

GRILL DEPOTS 6 Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner

The GRILL DEPOTS 6 Burner is my pick for big families who want one grill that does it all.

I love the reversible griddle. Flip it smooth for pancakes and eggs, or ridged for steaks with built-in grease channels. The 620 square inches of total cooking space handles crowds easily.

The 9,000 BTU side burner lets me simmer beans or melt butter without running inside. Six stainless steel burners pump out 10,000 BTU each, so I get precise heat for searing or slow cooking. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates heat evenly and clean up fast.

Cabinet storage hides the propane tank and tools. Four wheels mean I can roll it around my patio.

Best For: Large families or frequent entertainers who want a versatile, high-capacity grill that can handle breakfast, lunch, and dinner for crowds.

Pros:

• Reversible griddle with smooth and ridged sides expands cooking options from pancakes to steaks with built-in grease drainage
• 60,000 BTU across six stainless steel burners plus 9,000 BTU side burner deliver precise, powerful heat for diverse cooking tasks
• Cabinet storage and four wheels provide organized propane tank concealment and easy patio mobility

Cons:

• 620 square inches of total cooking area may be excessive and space-consuming for smaller households or limited patios
• Porcelain-enameled cast iron components, while durable, still require careful maintenance to prevent chipping or rust over time
• No mention of included cover or weather protection, leaving the stainless steel finish potentially exposed to elements

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Side Burner Grill

I know how overwhelming it can feel when you’re staring at ten different grills, all claiming to be the best. That’s why I’ve learned to focus on five key things: burner power output, cooking surface area, construction materials, mobility features, and storage options.

These factors separate the grills you’ll love for years from the ones you’ll regret by July.

Burner Power Output

How much heat do you really need from a side burner?

I look for 9,000 to 15,000 BTU. That range covers most home cooks perfectly.

Higher BTU means faster boiling and quicker sauce reductions while my steaks sizzle on the main grill. I learned the hard way that weak side burners struggle when I’m juggling multiple dishes.

I always check total grill output, too. If main burners hog all the gas, my side burner sputters. Annoying.

Some brands list separate numbers, like 10,000 BTU per main burner plus 12,000 for the side. That clarity helps me compare apples to apples.

I’ve seen underpowered burners fail at simple tasks. Don’t shortchange yourself on BTU. Match your cooking ambitions to the numbers, and you’ll avoid dinner-time headaches.

Cooking Surface Area

What size grill do you actually need?

Cooking surface area decides how much food you can tackle at once. I always check the total area, which splits into primary grilling space and warming racks. A bigger primary surface, think 386 to 602 square inches, lets me cook for a crowd without playing musical chairs with burgers.

Warming racks, usually 126 to 139 square inches, hold finished items while I finish the rest. Side burners and prep areas don’t count toward official grilling space, but I treat them as bonus real estate. Simmering sauce while searing steaks? That’s multitasking magic.

My honest take: don’t overbuy. A couple cooking for two doesn’t need a giant surface. Match the size to your usual crowd, and you’ll avoid the frustration of a half-empty grill or cramped cooking chaos.

Construction Materials

Once you’ve nailed down the right size, it’s time to look at what your grill’s actually made of. I always check for corrosion-resistant materials first. SUS304 stainless steel knob bezels and full stainless construction handle rain, humidity, and my occasional neglect way better than cheap painted parts that flake after one season.

For grates, I prefer cast iron or porcelain-coated surfaces. They hold heat evenly and wipe clean without endless scrubbing. Bare steel rusts fast and frustrates me every time.

Don’t forget grease management. Look for removable grease cups or easy-access drip trays. They cut flare-ups and save you from nasty cleanup jobs later.

Finally, solid mounting matters. Sealed housings and sturdy side shelves keep your burner stable when winds kick up. Cheaper wobbly builds? I’ve replaced those. Never again.

Mobility Features

Where are you planning to roll this thing? I always check for built-in wheels or locking casters first. They let me move the grill easily and keep it stable when I’m cooking.

Weight and dimensions matter more than you’d think. I’ve seen folks buy grills too heavy for their deck or patio. Check your surfaces before you buy.

Compact footprints save headaches. Fold-down side shelves are a bonus when you’re squeezing through gates or storing temporarily.

Don’t forget the small stuff. Accessible grease trays prevent messy surprises during transport. Reliable batteries and ignition systems should survive a bumpy move across the yard.

Finally, look for travel-friendly handles or recessed grips. They cut down grip width and make maneuvering less awkward. Your back will thank you later.

Storage Options

How do I keep everything within arm’s reach when I’m juggling tongs, a marinade brush, and a timer? I look for side burner grills with smart storage built right in.

Many models give me pull-out grease trays and cabinets for tools, so I’m not hunting around mid-cook. I especially like side shelves next to the burner: they hold my sauces, seasonings, and utensils where I need them.

Built-in models often add bottom cabinets or drawers underneath. I can stash my propane tank, extra tools, or even wind shrouds and covers in one spot. Some designs include removable grease cups near the burner, which keeps messes contained.

Good storage shapes my whole outdoor kitchen layout. When everything has a home, I grill faster and stress less.

Cleanup Design

Cleanup matters just as much as the cooking itself. I’ve scrubbed too many grills to ignore this.

Grease Management

A pull-out or removable grease tray saves serious hassle. I dump fats fast, and flare-ups drop way down. An inclined or slanted tray design channels drippings straight to the cup, so I’m not chasing puddles around.

Smart Surfaces

Porcelain-enameled or enamel-coated grates? They’re a blessing. Food doesn’t glue itself on, and rust-resistant stainless steel (look for SUS304) wipes clean without a fight.

Safe Layouts

A built-in thermometer and accessible side burner area keep flames away from my cleanup zone. That’s safer post-cooking.

Smart Placement

Side burner covers that shield the main grill prevent grease spills where I don’t want them.

These details add up to less scrubbing, more relaxing.

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