Adding a side burner to your gas grill changes the game, letting you simmer sauce, sear a second pan of vegetables, or keep a side dish warm without leaving your main cooking area. The challenge is finding a model that delivers strong main burner BTUs, a side burner that actually reaches a steady simmer, and a build that survives weather, rust, and repeated high-heat cycles. Too many grills skimp on gauge thickness or use painted steel that flakes within a season.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind AirfryerBite. Over the last few years I’ve analyzed hundreds of grill spec sheets, compared stainless steel grades, flame-tamer designs, and warranty language across dozens of brands to separate real performance from marketing weight.
Whether you cook for two or host the whole block, finding the right gas grill with side burner means balancing total BTUs, cooking area, and the type of grates that hold heat without constant replacement.
How To Choose The Best Gas Grill With Side Burner
The side burner adds versatility, but it also adds a layer of complexity to the decision. Before buying, you need to weigh total heat output, cooking surface material, cabinet storage, and overall construction quality. The right choice depends on whether you prioritize raw searing power, even low-heat cooking, or long-term durability against outdoor elements.
Total BTU Output vs. Usable Heat
A grill with 60,000 total BTUs can sound impressive, but how those BTUs are divided matters. If the side burner consumes 12,000 BTUs and the main burners are undersized, you may struggle to maintain high heat across a full grate. Look at the main burner BTU rating independently—if you can’t get 10,000 BTUs per main burner, searing a full rack of steaks will take longer.
Grate Material and Heat Retention
Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates resist rust and hold heat for better sear marks, but they are heavier and more prone to chipping if dropped. Stainless steel grates are lighter and virtually rust-proof, but they don’t retain heat as well and can produce weaker grill marks. For a mix of durability and performance, porcelain-enameled cast iron is the favorite of most mid-range and premium units.
Flare-Up Management and Grease Handling
Flare-ups are the enemy of even cooking. Models that use stainless steel or porcelain-enameled flame tamers distribute heat and vaporize drippings more effectively than open burners. A removable grease tray that slides out from the front makes cleaning far simpler than trying to scrape grease from a rear port. Any grill with steeply angled grease channels and a front-pull tray is easier to maintain over years of use.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monument Grills 4+2 Burner | Premium Mid | Nighttime grilling & large crowds | 72,000 BTU / 700 sq in / Knob lights | Amazon |
| Royal Gourmet GA6402S | Premium Mid | Big batch cooking & searing | 74,000 BTU / 835 sq in / Sear burner | Amazon |
| Charbroil Pro Series | Premium Mid | Modular cooking (gas/charcoal/griddle) | 45,000 BTU / 802 sq in / Amplifire IR | Amazon |
| Weber Genesis E-325 | Premium | Pro-grade searing & reliability | 641 sq in / PureBlu burners / Sear Zone | Amazon |
| Brand-Man 6-Burner Built-In | Premium | Built-in outdoor kitchen installation | 60,000 BTU / 860 sq in / 304 SS | Amazon |
| Napoleon Rogue PRO 625 | Premium | Infrared side burner & steakhouse sear | 5 main burners / Infrared sear station | Amazon |
| Bestfire 68,000 BTU | Mid-Range | Budget-friendly big BTU output | 68,000 BTU / 647 sq in / 304 SS body | Amazon |
| Megamaster 5-Burner | Mid-Range | High cooking space on a budget | 50,000 BTU / 656 sq in / Cast iron grates | Amazon |
| Captiva Designs 4-Burner | Mid-Range | Easy cleanup & organized storage | 42,000 BTU / 545 sq in / Pull-out grease tray | Amazon |
| GREEN PARTY 2-in-1 Griddle Combo | Mid-Range | Griddle & grill versatility | 46,700 BTU / 510 sq in / Rotisserie-ready | Amazon |
| MFSTUDIO 4 Burner | Mid-Range | Classic 4-burner simplicity | 42,000 BTU / 542 sq in / 1-year backup | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Monument Grills 4+2 Burner Propane Gas Grill
Monument Grills packs four 304 stainless steel main burners, a dedicated side burner, and a high-heat infrared sear burner into a single cabinet-style frame — delivering 72,000 total BTUs. The porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates sit over stainless steel flame tamers that distribute heat evenly while catching drippings, reducing flare-ups significantly compared to open-tube designs. With 510 square inches of primary cooking area plus a 190-square-inch warming rack, you can handle full-party loads without overcrowding.
The Clearview lid window lets you monitor food without opening the hood and losing heat — a real advantage when cooking thick steaks or delicate fish. Built-in knob lights make nighttime flipping safer and easier, a feature rarely seen at this price tier. The side burner operates independently from the main burners, giving you full control over a sauce pan or side dish while the main grate works at high heat.
Assembly requires careful attention to the gas line routing, but the finished build feels solid for a freestanding unit. The locking casters keep the grill planted on uneven patio surfaces, and the steel cabinet provides enough room to hide a 20-pound propane tank. If you want a mid-to-premium grill that balances cooking power with nighttime-friendly design, this is the pick.
Why it’s great
- Knob lights and Clearview window for nighttime grilling
- Infrared side sear burner adds high-heat versatility
- 304 stainless steel burners resist corrosion longer than painted steel
Good to know
- Assembly instructions can be vague on gas line connections
- Warming rack is too low for toasting buns without burning
2. Royal Gourmet GA6402S 6-Burner Gas Grill
Royal Gourmet’s GA6402S brings six burners to the table — five tube burners rated at 10,000 BTUs each, a 14,000-BTU sear burner, and a 10,000-BTU side burner, totaling 74,000 BTUs. That sear burner produces intense direct heat for steakhouse-style crust, while the side burner handles side dishes or a pot of baked beans. The total cooking area spans 835 square inches, including a warming rack that keeps finished food hot without overcooking.
Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates sit above stainless steel flame tamers that vaporize drippings to reduce flare-ups and improve flavor. The push-button electronic ignition fires reliably even after the grill has been sitting in humid conditions. A full-width removable grease tray slides out from the front, making cleanup faster than rear-port systems that require bending and scraping.
The cabinet-style frame offers generous storage for propane tanks, tools, and seasoning bottles. The black and silver finish looks clean, but the cabinet panels are painted alloy steel rather than full stainless — expect some fading if the grill lives in direct sun. For gatherings of 8 to 10 people, the GA6402S delivers the cooking capacity and side-burner flexibility that larger families need.
Why it’s great
- Dedicated 14,000-BTU sear burner for high-temp crust
- 835 sq in total area fits 21 burgers at once
- Front-pull grease tray simplifies post-cook cleaning
Good to know
- Cabinet panels are painted alloy steel, not full stainless
- Side burner output is lower than some standalone units
3. Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner with Amplifire IR
The Charbroil Pro Series uses Amplifire infrared technology to distribute heat across 535 square inches of primary cooking space plus a 155-square-inch warming rack. The infrared system reduces flare-ups by vaporizing drippings before they can ignite, which also adds a subtle char flavor. An oversized side shelf doubles as a prep station, and a cold-rolled steel griddle top (sold as an accessory) expands your menu to pancakes, eggs, and fried rice.
The patented Gas2Coal charcoal tray (sold separately) lets you switch from gas to charcoal in under 90 seconds — a rare hybrid capability that adds smoke flavor when you want it. The porcelain-coated cast iron grates resist rust and produce clean sear marks. Two 8-inch wheels and two locking casters make rolling across grass or gravel manageable.
At 45,000 total BTUs, the Pro Series runs cooler on paper than some competitors, but the infrared system cooks more efficiently, meaning less fuel waste. The side burner is a single 10,000-BTU unit that works fine for simmering sauces or boiling water. If you value cooking versatility and flare-up prevention over the highest possible BTU number, this grill earns its place.
Why it’s great
- Amplifire infrared system cuts flare-ups significantly
- Gas2Coal tray converts to charcoal for smoke flavor
- Modular griddle top adds breakfast and flat-top cooking
Good to know
- Charcoal tray and griddle top sold separately
- Total BTU is lower than many 4-burner competitors
4. Weber Genesis E-325 Liquid Propane Gas Grill
Weber’s Genesis E-325 uses PureBlu burners with a tapered design that creates a consistent flame across the full cooking surface. Raised flame openings allow debris to fall away, reducing clogging and corrosion over time. The extra-large sear zone covers a significant portion of the main grate, giving you room to mark multiple steaks simultaneously without shifting them to a different heat zone.
Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates retain heat for deep searing, and the FLAVORIZER bars catch and vaporize meat juices, boosting grilled flavor while funneling grease away from the burners. The grease management system places a pull-out tray under the cookbox, allowing quick disposal without disassembly. Side tables offer enough room for a platter and tools, and the warming rack doubles as a bun toasting station.
The Genesis E-325 does not include a traditional side burner — instead, the large integrated sear zone is part of the main cooking area. For buyers who need a separate side burner for sauces, Weber sells an add-on side burner that attaches to the side table. This is a premium grill built for longevity, with extensive warranty coverage on burners and cookbox, but it expects you to invest in accessories for full side-burner functionality.
Why it’s great
- PureBlu burners resist clogging from food debris
- Large integrated sear zone marks multiple steaks evenly
- FLAVORIZER bars boost flavor and manage grease effectively
Good to know
- Side burner is an add-on accessory, not included
- Price point sits well above competing 4-burner setups
5. Brand-Man 40-Inch 6-Burner Built-In Grill
The Brand-Man 6-burner built-in grill is designed for permanent outdoor kitchen installation, with a 304 stainless steel body that resists corrosion in coastal or high-humidity environments. It delivers 60,000 BTUs across six burners, plus a side burner integrated into the right end. The total cooking area measures 860 square inches — 620 in the primary zone and 240 in the warming rack — making this one of the largest surface areas on this list.
Two rust-resistant matte cast iron grates provide even heat distribution, and an included cast iron griddle plate expands your cooking to breakfast foods, flatbreads, and vegetables. The removable front grease trays slide out for easy cleaning, catching drippings before they reach the cabinet. The unit can be converted from liquid propane to natural gas with a conversion kit (sold separately), giving you flexibility if you ever plumb your outdoor kitchen for a gas line.
Cutout dimensions require precise planning — 40.5 to 42.8 inches wide by 16.7 inches deep. The grill head itself is heavy, so installation is a two-person job. For homeowners building an outdoor kitchen island and wanting a side burner that blends seamlessly into the layout, this grill matches that brief exactly. It lacks the flashy lighting features of the Monument, but its all-stainless construction will outlast painted steel cabinets by years.
Why it’s great
- Full 304 stainless steel construction for maximum rust resistance
- 860 sq in total area suits large parties and multiple dishes
- Includes separate cast iron griddle plate for flat-top cooking
Good to know
- Requires precise cutout measurements for built-in installation
- No knob lights or clear lid window for nighttime use
6. Napoleon Rogue PRO 625 Propane Gas Grill
The Napoleon Rogue PRO 625 stands apart from the mid-range crowd with its infrared side burner — a technology that produces higher, more even heat than standard gas side burners, making it ideal for wok cooking or searing a second batch of steaks while the main grates are full. The main cooking area includes five burners spanning a 34.75-by-18-inch grid, using WAVE stainless steel cooking grids that are virtually maintenance-free and resistant to rust.
Backlit white LED control knobs make after-dark operation safer, a feature that pairs well with the stainless steel body’s powder-coated finish for weather resistance. The infrared sear station on the side achieves steakhouse-level surface temperatures, letting you get a hard sear on a cast iron pan or directly on the infrared grate. The cart frame is built from stainless steel with sturdy locking casters that hold position even on sloped patios.
At the top of the price range, the Rogue PRO 625 justifies the investment with build quality that avoids painted panels and thin gauge steel. The 10-year warranty on burners reflects confidence in the stainless components. If you regularly entertain and want a side burner that can actually sear instead of just simmer, this is the model that delivers on that promise without compromise.
Why it’s great
- Infrared side burner reaches higher temps than standard side burners
- Maintenance-free WAVE stainless steel cooking grids
- Backlit LED knobs for safe grilling at night
Good to know
- Premium price point may exceed casual griller budgets
- No warming rack as large as some competitors’ designs
7. Bestfire 68,000 BTU 5 Burner Propane Gas Grill
Bestfire’s 5-burner main plus 1 side burner delivers 68,000 total BTUs from a 304 stainless steel body — an unusually high spec for its price tier. The 647 square inches of total cooking area includes a 447-square-inch primary zone with heavy-duty porcelain-enameled cast iron grates and a 200-square-inch warming rack. The side burner handles a saucepan or small pot while the main burners run at full heat for burgers or chicken.
Push-button electronic ignition starts reliably, and the built-in thermometer tracks internal lid temperature. Four wheels (two locking) allow the cart to roll over paving stones and grass without tipping. The bottom cabinet stores the propane tank and extra tools, keeping the cooking area uncluttered.
Assembly is more involved than some competitors, requiring careful attention to gas line routing — Bestfire recommends watching the video tutorial before starting. The painted steel cabinet panels may show wear faster than full-stainless builds, but the 304 stainless lid and body provide the corrosion resistance that matters most. For budget-conscious buyers who want high BTU output and a side burner, this grill delivers strong specs per dollar.
Why it’s great
- 304 stainless steel body provides real rust resistance at a budget price
- 68,000 BTUs from six total burners heats fast for high-volume cooking
- 200 sq in warming rack adds flexibility for holding finished food
Good to know
- Assembly requires careful following of video instructions
- Cabinet panels are painted steel, not stainless throughout
8. Megamaster 5-Burner Propane Gas Grill
Megamaster’s 5-burner configuration uses five stainless steel burners rated at 10,000 BTUs each for a total of 50,000 BTUs. The 656 square inches of cooking space includes matte cast iron grates that resist rust and provide even heat without the slick coating of porcelain enamel. Two large side tables offer real prep space, with accessory hooks for tools — a layout that maximizes usable area despite the grill’s compact footprint.
The porcelain-coated steel firebox retains heat well, reducing temperature drops when opening the lid. The side burner is positioned on the right table, close enough to monitor without reaching across the hot main grate. The painted finish and cast iron frame hold up reasonably in covered patios but may show wear if left exposed to rain repeatedly.
Ignition is battery-operated and fires quickly on every burner. The cart rolls on two wheels and requires lifting the front to maneuver, which works fine on flat surfaces but is less convenient on gravel. For casual weekend cooks who need a large cooking area and a functional side burner at an entry-level price, the Megamaster offers a straightforward, reliable setup.
Why it’s great
- Two large side tables provide real workspace for prep and tools
- Matte cast iron grates offer even heat and rust resistance
- 656 sq in cooking area fits family-sized loads comfortably
Good to know
- Painted finish is less durable than full stainless steel
- Cart requires lifting front to steer, not full caster movement
9. Captiva Designs 4-Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner
Captiva Designs outfits its 4-burner grill with a 545-square-inch cooking area split between a 400-square-inch primary zone of porcelain-enameled cast iron grates and a 145-square-inch warming rack. The four stainless steel burners plus the side burner produce 42,000 BTUs, providing solid mid-range heat for typical family grilling. Porcelain-enameled flame tamers sit between burners and grates, spreading heat evenly and cutting down on flare-ups.
The full-size pull-out oil drip tray slides out from the front, making grease disposal much cleaner than systems that require lifting the grates. The bottom storage cabinet is large enough for a propane tank, a box of charcoal (if you use a smoker box), and a handful of tools. Stainless steel handles and painted steel body panels keep the weight manageable for moving around a patio.
Ignition is battery-operated and reliable in moderate weather, but the painted finish on the cabinet may rub off near the wheels if the grill is dragged instead of rolled. The side burner reaches a strong boil but lacks a dedicated wind guard, so cooking on breezy days may require shielding. For grillers who value organized storage and easy cleaning above maximum heat output, this model hits the right notes.
Why it’s great
- Pull-out grease tray simplifies post-cook cleanup significantly
- Large bottom cabinet fits propane tank and grilling tools
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates resist rust and hold heat
Good to know
- Side burner lacks wind guard for breezy conditions
- Painted cabinet finish may wear near moving joints
10. GREEN PARTY 2-in-1 Propane Gas BBQ Grill with Griddle
The GREEN PARTY 2-in-1 grill combines a 360-square-inch porcelain-enameled cast iron main grate with a separate griddle insert, giving you the ability to cook burgers and pancakes in the same session. The 150-square-inch stainless steel warming rack sits above the main grates, keeping finished food hot. Four stainless steel burners plus a side burner deliver 46,700 BTUs total, with a battery-operated electronic ignition that fires quickly.
The double-layer lid improves heat retention and includes a built-in thermometer that tracks temperature without opening. Fixed slots for a rotisserie kit (sold separately) add spit-roasting capability, a rare feature at this price. The full-size slide-out grease tray collects drippings from both the griddle and the grill side, reducing cleanup time.
The frame uses alloy steel instead of stainless, which keeps the weight lower but means the painted finish is the primary weather defense. On covered patios or under a grill cover, the frame holds up fine, but direct rain exposure will accelerate corrosion. The side burner works well for simmering sauces or boiling corn, though its output is modest compared to freestanding burners. For those who want griddle breakfasts and grill dinners from one machine, this combo delivers exceptional versatility.
Why it’s great
- Integrated griddle grate expands cooking from breakfast to BBQ
- Rotisserie-ready slots add slow-roasting capability
- Double-layer lid retains heat and monitors temperature from a thermometer
Good to know
- Alloy steel frame is less corrosion-resistant than stainless
- Side burner output is lower than some standalone models
11. MFSTUDIO 4 Burner BBQ Gas Grill with Side Burner
MFSTUDIO keeps the layout simple: four burners plus a side burner, 42,000 BTUs, and 542 square inches of total cooking area. Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates provide even heat distribution and resist rust better than uncoated iron. The stainless steel frame and handles give the grill a sleek silver appearance that matches most patio aesthetics without dominating the space.
The side burner sits flush on the left table, giving you a spot for sauces or sides while the main grates handle the protein. One-year product backup support covers defects, which is a decent safety net at this price point. Assembly is straightforward with standard tools, and the cabinet includes two doors that open wide for tank access and storage.
The painted steel body panels are functional but not heavy-gauge, so the grill feels lighter than the Monument or Napoleon units. Side tables are smaller than some competitors, limiting prep space. For a first gas grill with a side burner or a secondary grill for smaller decks, the MFSTUDIO offers a balanced package without unnecessary complexity.
Why it’s great
- Stainless steel frame and handles provide clean, consistent appearance
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates hold heat evenly
- One-year backup support adds purchase confidence
Good to know
- Side tables are compact for prep and tool staging
- Painted steel body panels feel lighter than higher-end builds
FAQ
Can I use the side burner on a gas grill for a wok?
How many BTUs does a side burner need to boil water?
Is a gas grill with a side burner harder to clean than one without?
Can I install a gas grill with side burner in an outdoor kitchen island?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the gas grill with side burner winner is the Monument Grills 4+2 Burner because it blends 72,000 BTUs, a separate sear burner, knob lights for nighttime use, and a Clearview lid into a package that outperforms its direct competitors at a mid-range price. If you want a dedicated infrared side burner that can actually sear, grab the Napoleon Rogue PRO 625. And for modular cooking that transitions from gas to charcoal or griddle, nothing beats the Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire IR.










