Choosing a grill with a built-in side burner expands your outdoor kitchen, letting you simmer sauces, boil sides, or sear steaks without leaving the grill area. The following five grills balance power, durability, and practicality for American backyard cooking. Each option includes a side burner and solid primary grilling space to handle family meals, gatherings, and weekend cookouts.
| Product | BTU (Total) | Primary Cooking (sq in) | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUHOME 4-Burner Gas Grill | 46,500 BTU | 332.28 | Enameled cast iron grates |
| MASTER COOK 4 Burners Grill | 52,000 BTU | 400 | Lidded side burner, stainless steel |
| Char-Broil Classic 3-Burner | 8,000 BTU side burner | 360 | Warming rack and indirect heat cooking |
| Royal Gourmet GA5401T | 60,000 BTU | 483 | Five main burners plus side burner |
| Kendane 4-Burner Grill | 53,000 BTU | 400+ | Enameled cast iron grid; stainless construction |
EUHOME 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill With Side Burner
The EUHOME grill delivers a total 46,500 BTU, with 8,500 BTU allocated to the side burner for sauces or sides while you grill. The 458 sq. in. total cooking area includes a 332.28 sq. in. main grill and a 125.28 sq. in. warming rack, enabling gatherings of 10+ guests. Premium enameled cast iron grates retain heat for sear marks and are easier to clean, while the enameled finish resists rust and sticking. The design supports rapid preheating and even heat distribution for consistent results across burgers, steaks, and vegetables.
MASTER COOK 4 Burners Gas Grill With Side Burner
The Master Cook model combines 52,000 BTU total power with a lidded 12,000-BTU side burner, delivering robust versatility for main courses and sides. It features 400 sq. in. of primary cooking space on heavy-duty enamel grates, plus 118 sq. in. on a porcelain-coated swing-away rack for extra capacity. Integrated ignition ensures quick starts, while the stainless build provides durability against weather and frequent use. This setup is well-suited for larger family cookouts and weekend barbecues when you need reliable performance and extra cooking options.
Char-Broil Classic Series Convective 3-Burner With Side Burner
This Char-Broil setup runs on propane and includes an 8,000 BTU side burner for sauces, sides, or hot beverages while you cook. The main grilling area provides 360 sq. in., suitable for around a dozen burgers or several chicken breasts at once, with a 170 sq. in. warming rack for keeping foods warm. The grill uses 20-pound propane tanks (not included) and emphasizes quick heat, even temperatures, and practical space for indirect cooking. It balances affordability with essential grilling features for moderate households or new grillers.
Royal Gourmet GA5401T 5-Burner With Side Burner
The Royal Gourmet GA5401T offers 60,000 BTU total power across five main burners plus a lidded 10,000 BTU side burner, enabling comprehensive cooking control. It provides 632 sq. in. of total cooking space (483 sq. in. main, 149 sq. in. warming rack) with a sturdy stainless-steel build. This model emphasizes high heat for searing and even distribution for longer cooks, making it a strong option for large gatherings and outdoor entertaining in varied climates. The side burner is ideal for sauces, sides, or beverages while grilling.
Kendane 4-Burner With Side Burner
The Kendane grill combines 53,000 BTU of cooking power across four main burners plus a 9,000 BTU side burner for flexible multi-zone cooking. It features a large 400 sq. in. main cooking area and a 140 sq. in. warming rack, with a durable stainless steel body and a double-layer lid with a heat-resistant handle. The included temperature gauge supports monitoring for consistent results. Enameled cast iron cooking grids provide good heat retention and distinct sear marks, while the side burner enhances the outdoor cooking workflow for sides and sauces.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- BTU and cooking space: Look for grills with sufficient total BTU for your typical group size, plus a comfortable main cooking area (often 350–500+ sq in) to handle multiple items simultaneously.
- Side burner utility: Confirm the side burner BTU and whether it is lid-covered or open. A covered side burner helps with wind protection and heat retention, while an open burner may offer easier access for sauces and beverages.
- Grate material and warmth retention: Enameled cast iron grates heat evenly, hold heat well, and leave good sear marks, but require proper cleaning to prevent rust. Stainless steel grates are durable and easy to clean but may heat differently.
- Construction quality: Stainless steel bodies resist weathering and provide long-term durability. Check hinges, lids, and shelves for sturdiness to minimize maintenance needs.
- Storage and organization: Built-in shelves, hooks, and a cabinet or drawer system help keep tools and propane cylinders accessible and secure during cooking.
- Mobility and setup: If you plan seasonal use in a range of spaces, consider grills with wheels and a compact footprint. For stationary setups, larger grills with stability and wind protection may be preferable.
- Maintenance and cleaning: Removable heat shields, ash pans, and accessible grease management simplify upkeep. Enamel-coated components can be easier to clean but may require gentle care to avoid chipping.
- Fuel considerations: Ensure you choose the right fuel type (propane vs. natural gas) and availability for your cooking space. Propane models offer portability and flexibility for most backyards.
- Warranty and support: A robust warranty and responsive customer service can save time and money on repairs after heavy use or exposure to outdoor elements.
- Safety features: Look for reliable ignition systems, proper lid ventilation, and stable legs to prevent tipping or tipping hazards when the grill is in use.