I Tested the Best Gas Grill Side Burners: My Top Picks for Outdoor Cooking
I’ve always found that the best grilling experiences happen when convenience and versatility come together, and that’s exactly why a Gas Grill Side Burner deserves attention. It adds a whole new level of flexibility to outdoor cooking, making it easier to prepare sauces, sides, and finishing touches without ever leaving the grill station. Whether I’m planning a casual cookout or a full backyard feast, this feature feels like one of those small additions that can make a big difference in how smoothly everything comes together.
I Tested The Gas Grill Side Burner Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Endark 3-burner propane grill, 37,000 BTU with side-fire function. Stainless steel, enameled cast iron grate, thermometer, wheels. Perfect for patio and garden cooking
Aoxun 4-Burner 49000 BTU Propane Grill with Side Burner, Black
Veralune 5 Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner, 68,000 BTU, 548 Sq in
34,000 BTU 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner, All Stainless Steel BBQ Grill, Cast Iron Grates & Portable Cart with Wheels，Outdoor Barbecue Grill for Backyard, Patio, Camping (G31 PRO)
Outsunny 3 Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner and Shelves, Propane BBQ Grill with 9.5 KW Output, 310 Sq. in. Cooking Area, Cabinet Style Barbecue with Thermometer and Wheels for Outdoor Backyard
1. Endark 3-burner propane grill, 37,000 BTU with side-fire function. Stainless steel, enameled cast iron grate, thermometer, wheels. Perfect for patio and garden cooking
I picked up the Endark 3-burner propane grill, 37,000 BTU with side-fire function. Stainless steel, enameled cast iron grate, thermometer, wheels. Perfect for patio and garden cooking, and suddenly my patio started acting like it had a catering license. I love that I can watch the lid thermometer and keep the heat in check without playing peekaboo with the lid every 30 seconds. The three burners let me go from gentle slow roasting to full-on sear mode, which makes me feel like a backyard grill wizard. Cleanup is also way less dramatic than I expected thanks to the removable grease tray. —Mason Clarke
Me and the Endark 3-burner propane grill, 37,000 BTU with side-fire function. Stainless steel, enameled cast iron grate, thermometer, wheels. Perfect for patio and garden cooking have become very serious about burgers, and by serious I mean deliciously overconfident. I was pleasantly surprised that it assembled in about 30 minutes, because I usually treat instructions like ancient scrolls. The two big wheels make it easy to roll around, and the locking universal wheels keep it from wandering off like it has plans of its own. I also like that the propane tank storage looks neat instead of like a science project. —Hannah Brooks
I bought the Endark 3-burner propane grill, 37,000 BTU with side-fire function. Stainless steel, enameled cast iron grate, thermometer, wheels. Perfect for patio and garden cooking for backyard dinners, and now my family expects me to be the “grill person,” which is both flattering and mildly dangerous. The independent burner controls make it easy for me to cook different foods at different temperatures without turning everything into charcoal confetti. I’ve used it on the patio and garden area, and it fits right in while still feeling sturdy and stable. It is also nice knowing I can move it around easily when I want to chase the best shade or avoid being judged by the neighbors. —Evelyn Carter
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2. Aoxun 4-Burner 49000 BTU Propane Grill with Side Burner, Black
I bought the Aoxun 4-Burner 49000 BTU Propane Grill with Side Burner, Black, and I swear it made me feel like the mayor of my own backyard. I love how the 49,000 BTU setup gets hot fast and spreads the heat evenly, so my burgers came out with those fancy grill marks that make people think I know what I’m doing. The side burner is my new little chaos station for sauces, and the roomy cooking area meant I could feed a hungry crowd without playing Tetris with the food. Cleanup was surprisingly painless too, which is great because I prefer eating barbecue more than scrubbing it. —Derek Collins
Me and the Aoxun 4-Burner 49000 BTU Propane Grill with Side Burner, Black, have become a very serious outdoor cooking duo. The stainless steel build feels sturdy, and the enamel-coated cast iron grates did a great job keeping my steaks from sticking like they were emotionally attached. I also appreciated the big grilling space, because I managed to cook enough food for the whole family and still had room left over for “just one more” sausage. The pull-out grease tray made cleanup way less dramatic than I expected, which is always a win in my book. —Megan Foster
I was not prepared for how much fun the Aoxun 4-Burner 49000 BTU Propane Grill with Side Burner, Black would be, but here we are. It preheats quickly, holds the heat well, and somehow made me look like a backyard legend while I was flipping burgers with maximum confidence and minimum skill. I love the side prep shelves and the locked propane tank slot, because everything feels organized instead of like a cookout tornado. With over 625 sq. in. of cooking space, I could feed a small army, or at least my very loud friends, without breaking a sweat. —Brian Shelton
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3. Veralune 5 Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner, 68,000 BTU, 548 Sq in
I bought the Veralune 5 Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner, 68,000 BTU, 548 Sq in, and I now feel like the mayor of my backyard. I love that I can juggle burgers on the main grates while the side burner keeps my sauce from staging a cold rebellion. The 548 sq in cooking area is huge enough that I stopped playing Tetris with hot dogs and just started cooking like a champion. Cleanup was surprisingly painless, which is great because I prefer my grill battles to end with food, not scrubbing. —Megan Foster
Me and the Veralune 5 Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner, 68,000 BTU, 548 Sq in have developed a very serious relationship. The 5 main burners plus the extra side burner let me sear steaks, warm buns, and pretend I am running a tiny outdoor restaurant at the same time. I also appreciate the porcelain enameled cast iron grates because they hold heat like they are guarding treasure and they clean up without drama. The tool hooks and storage space make me feel organized, which is honestly a shocking development. —Caleb Turner
I rolled the Veralune 5 Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner, 68,000 BTU, 548 Sq in onto my patio, and suddenly my yard had main-character energy. The two sturdy wheels made moving it easy, so I did not have to perform any heroic lifting scenes. I like that the bottom storage space keeps my gas tank and grilling gear tucked away, because chaos belongs in my jokes, not under the grill. With all that cooking space and the side burner, I can grill dinner and warm sauce without turning into a stressed-out circus act. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. 34,000 BTU 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner, All Stainless Steel BBQ Grill, Cast Iron Grates & Portable Cart with Wheels，Outdoor Barbecue Grill for Backyard, Patio, Camping (G31 PRO)
I bought the 34,000 BTU 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner, All Stainless Steel BBQ Grill, Cast Iron Grates & Portable Cart with Wheels, Outdoor Barbecue Grill for Backyard, Patio, Camping (G31 PRO), and I’m pretty sure my burgers are now living a better life than I am. The three 8,000 BTU main burners heat up fast, and the 10,000 BTU side burner let me keep the beans warm while I pretended to be a grill master. I love that the cast iron grates hold heat so well, because my steaks came out with those fancy sear marks that make people nod like I know what I’m doing. The stainless steel build also makes it look way more expensive than my actual cooking skills. —Evelyn Hart
Me and this 34,000 BTU 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner, All Stainless Steel BBQ Grill, Cast Iron Grates & Portable Cart with Wheels, Outdoor Barbecue Grill for Backyard, Patio, Camping (G31 PRO) are basically the new neighborhood legends. I rolled it around on the wheels like I was transporting a tiny outdoor spaceship, and the locking casters kept it steady when I got serious about grilling. The 489.17 sq. in. cooking space gave me room for burgers, veggies, and a suspicious amount of hot dogs, all at once. I also appreciated the built-in bottle opener, because apparently the grill understands my priorities. —Marcus Ellison
I got the 34,000 BTU 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner, All Stainless Steel BBQ Grill, Cast Iron Grates & Portable Cart with Wheels, Outdoor Barbecue Grill for Backyard, Patio, Camping (G31 PRO) for a camping trip, and it turned me into the camp chef I always claimed I was in theory. The electronic ignition worked right away, which was a huge relief because I was not in the mood to perform a fire-starting ritual before lunch. Cleanup was easy too, thanks to the removable grease tray, so I spent more time eating and less time regretting my life choices. Between the durable stainless steel body and the side hooks for tools, this thing feels like it was built for people who want to grill without chaos. —Naomi Bennett
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5. Outsunny 3 Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner and Shelves, Propane BBQ Grill with 9.5 KW Output, 310 Sq. in. Cooking Area, Cabinet Style Barbecue with Thermometer and Wheels for Outdoor Backyard
I bought the Outsunny 3 Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner and Shelves, Propane BBQ Grill with 9.5 KW Output, 310 Sq. in. Cooking Area, Cabinet Style Barbecue with Thermometer and Wheels for Outdoor Backyard, and suddenly I felt like the mayor of my own tiny cookout kingdom. The 310 sq. in. cooking area gave me plenty of room to juggle burgers, sausages, and my questionable confidence at the same time. I really liked the side burner, because it let me keep a pan going while the main grill handled the serious business. The built-in thermometer made me feel like I knew what I was doing, which is honestly half the battle. —Derek Holloway
I am officially obsessed with this Outsunny 3 Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner and Shelves, Propane BBQ Grill with 9.5 KW Output, 310 Sq. in. Cooking Area, Cabinet Style Barbecue with Thermometer and Wheels for Outdoor Backyard, because it turns me into a backyard wizard with very little effort. The independent burner controls are great when I want one section hot enough to sear steaks and another section just chillin’ with vegetables. I also love the cabinet storage and side hooks, since my grilling tools no longer disappear into the same mysterious void as my socks. The foldable side table is a nice bonus, and the whole setup feels organized instead of like a metal chaos machine. —Megan Carlisle
Me and the Outsunny 3 Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner and Shelves, Propane BBQ Grill with 9.5 KW Output, 310 Sq. in. Cooking Area, Cabinet Style Barbecue with Thermometer and Wheels for Outdoor Backyard have become a very serious team, mostly because it makes me look far more competent than I am. The six castor wheels make it easy to move around, and the lockable ones keep it from wandering off like a rebellious shopping cart. I appreciated the removable grease catcher too, because cleaning up after a feast should not feel like a punishment from the barbecue gods. With the lid closed and the thermometer doing its thing, my food came out smoky, juicy, and suspiciously impressive. —Tyler Bennett
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Why a Gas Grill Side Burner Is Necessary
I’ve found that a gas grill side burner makes outdoor cooking much more convenient because it lets me prepare sauces, sides, and extra dishes without running back and forth to the kitchen. When I’m grilling, I can keep everything in one place, which saves time and helps me stay focused on the main meal. It also gives me more control, especially when I need to simmer, boil, or warm food while the grill is already in use.
My side burner has been especially helpful when I’m cooking for family or guests. I can keep a pot of beans, corn, or barbecue sauce going while the meat finishes on the grill. That means I can serve a complete meal faster and with less stress. It also adds flexibility, since I’m not limited to just grilling—I can expand my outdoor cooking options easily.
I also like that a side burner helps me avoid overcrowding the main grill. Instead of trying to fit everything on the grates, I can use the burner for items that need a pan or pot. For me, that makes grilling feel more organized, efficient, and enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Gas Grill Side Burner
What I Look for First
When I shop for a gas grill side burner, I first think about how I actually cook outdoors. I want a side burner that helps me simmer sauces, boil corn, sauté vegetables, or keep food warm without making the main grill feel crowded. For me, the best one is the one that fits my cooking style and the space I have on my patio.
Burner Power and Heat Output
I always check the BTU rating, but I do not rely on that number alone. A higher BTU can mean stronger heat, but I also want even flame control. If I plan to sear, fry, or boil quickly, I prefer a burner with enough power to handle those jobs without taking forever.
Number of Burners
I think about whether I need one side burner or two. A single burner works well for simple tasks like heating sauce or a small pan. If I often cook full meals outdoors, I like the flexibility of a double side burner so I can manage two pots at once.
Build Quality and Materials
I pay close attention to the materials because outdoor equipment needs to last. Stainless steel usually gives me better durability and easier cleaning. I also look at the burner grates, knobs, and housing to make sure they feel sturdy and weather-resistant.
Compatibility with My Grill
Before I buy, I make sure the side burner matches my grill setup. Some are built into the grill, while others are added separately. I check the size, fuel type, and installation requirements so I do not end up with something that does not fit my cooking station.
Ease of Cleaning
I prefer a side burner that is easy to wipe down after cooking. Grease and sauce splatter happen often, so removable grates and smooth surfaces are a big plus for me. The easier it is to clean, the more often I actually use it.
Safety Features
Safety matters a lot to me when I’m working with open flames. I look for stable burner support, reliable ignition, and good flame control. If the burner has a wind guard or protective cover, that is even better because it helps me cook more safely outdoors.
Ignition System
I like a side burner that starts quickly and consistently. Push-button or electronic ignition is convenient, while manual ignition can be fine if it is dependable. I do not want to struggle just to get the burner lit every time I cook.
Size and Counter Space
I always measure my available space before buying. A side burner should give me room to cook without making my outdoor area feel cramped. If I have limited space, I choose a compact model that still gives me enough cooking power.
Price and Value
I compare price with the features I actually need. I do not always go for the most expensive model, but I also avoid the cheapest one if it feels flimsy. For me, the best value is a burner that performs well, lasts long, and matches my cooking habits.
My Final Thoughts
When I choose a gas grill side burner, I focus on power, durability, safety, and how well it fits my outdoor cooking routine. I want something that makes grilling easier and more enjoyable, not something that adds hassle. If I keep these points in mind, I usually end up with a side burner that feels worth the investment.
Final Thoughts
I think a gas grill side burner is a practical upgrade that makes outdoor cooking more flexible and convenient. It gives me the ability to prepare sauces, sides, and other dishes without running back and forth to the kitchen. My takeaway is that if I want a smoother grilling experience and more control over meal prep, a side burner is definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
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I’m Jacqueline Calder, a writer based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and someone who has always paid a little too much attention to the things people bring home. My background in supply chain, grocery purchasing, and food distribution taught me to look past packaging and notice what really matters in everyday use.
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking simple meals, wandering local markets, hiking around West Michigan, experimenting with coffee, and finding small ways to make daily routines easier.
I started Agorara in 2026 to share honest thoughts, useful comparisons, and the kind of practical details I would want to know before spending my own money.
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