4 Best Gas Grills with Side Burner 2025
Imagine this: the sun is setting, casting a warm glow over your backyard, the smell of grilling meat fills the air, and you’re gathered with friends and family, enjoying a delicious meal. A perfect summer night, right? And what’s the key ingredient to this idyllic scene? A top-notch gas grill with a side burner, of course!
If you’re in the market for a grill that will elevate your outdoor cooking game, look no further. We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the top 4 best gas grills with side burners, taking into account features, performance, and value. Get ready to fire up your grill and impress your taste buds!
4. Charbroil Classic Series Convective 2-Burner
The Charbroil Classic Series Convective 2-Burner Gas Grill is a solid option for those seeking a reliable and functional propane grill without breaking the bank. It boasts a respectable 280-square-inch primary cooking area, enough to comfortably grill up a decent amount of food for a family gathering or backyard barbecue. The side burner, capable of producing 8,000 BTUs, is a welcome addition, providing versatility for warming sides, boiling water, or even whipping up a quick sauce.
However, as a #4 ranked product, it’s worth noting a few potential drawbacks. While the porcelain-coated wire grates offer decent heat retention and are easy to clean, they do lack the durability and longevity of stainless steel grates found in higher-end models. Additionally, the 20,000 BTU output, while sufficient for most grilling needs, may not be ideal for those who frequently entertain large groups or prefer high-heat searing.
During my testing, I found the grill performed adequately for everyday grilling tasks. It heats up relatively quickly and maintains even heat distribution across the cooking surface. The control knobs are straightforward to use, allowing for precise temperature adjustments. The side shelf is generously sized and provides ample workspace, though the lack of integrated tool hooks can be a minor inconvenience.
Overall, the Charbroil Classic Series Convective 2-Burner Gas Grill is a decent value for the price. It’s a reliable and functional grill that will serve the needs of casual grill masters. However, those seeking a more premium grilling experience with longer-lasting grates or higher heat output may want to explore other options.
3. NutriChef NCGRIL2 5-Burner Propane Grill
The NutriChef Heavy-Duty 5-Burner Propane Gas Grill (NCGRIL2) is a solid contender in the world of outdoor cooking. It boasts a sleek stainless steel design that, while certainly attractive, does have a tendency to show fingerprints and smudges. The electronic ignition system is a real plus, making firing up the grill a breeze. Just a press of a button and you’re ready to go. The four main burners combined with the side burner offer a good amount of cooking space and versatility, allowing me to grill up a feast for the whole family without feeling cramped.
While the stainless steel construction feels sturdy, I did notice some minor warping in the side shelves after a few months of regular use. It’s not a major issue, but it does detract slightly from the overall durability impression. The built-in thermometer is a helpful feature, but it proved to be somewhat inaccurate in my experience. I found myself relying more on an external thermometer for precise temperature control.
The heavy-duty cast iron cooking grid performs well, holding heat evenly and providing good sear marks on my steaks. The grill’s 52,000 BTU output offers ample power for quick heating and searing. However, the heat distribution could be more even, with some hot spots developing around the burners. This means I need to be mindful of where I place my food to ensure even cooking.
Overall, the NutriChef NCGRIL2 is a decent propane grill for the price. It offers good features and performance, but does come with some minor drawbacks. If you’re looking for a high-end grill with perfect temperature control and flawless construction, this might not be the best option. However, for casual grilling enthusiasts who prioritize convenience and value, the NCGRIL2 is a solid choice.
2. Unovivy 3-Burner Propane Grill, 387 sq.in.
The Unovivy 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill presents itself as a solid option for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Its spacious cooking area, spanning 387 square inches, accommodates both intimate gatherings and larger parties. The inclusion of two side prep tables adds a welcome touch, providing ample space for organizing dishes, drinks, and grilling tools. The three stainless steel burners, coupled with a side burner, deliver a respectable 39,650 BTUs, ensuring efficient and versatile cooking. A lid-mounted thermometer allows for precise temperature control, aiding in achieving perfectly grilled results.
While the porcelain-enameled cast iron grill grates offer excellent heat distribution and rust resistance, I did find them to be a bit prone to sticking, requiring extra attention during cleaning. The enameled flame tamers, designed to promote even heating, seemed to contribute to this issue, trapping grease and food particles.
Assembly, thankfully, was straightforward, as advertised. The four directional caster wheels with a braking system provide good mobility, allowing for easy maneuvering and positioning. The removable food scraps tray simplifies cleanup, although it occasionally collects more residue than I would like, demanding more frequent emptying.
Overall, the Unovivy 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill offers a decent balance of features and performance. Its spacious cooking area and ample BTU output are commendable. However, the potential for sticking and the slightly messy cleanup experience, particularly with the flame tamers, detract from the overall user experience. While it provides good value for the price, those seeking effortless maintenance and superior non-stick performance might explore alternative options.
1. Kenmore 4-Burner Gas Grill, Cast Iron Grates
This Kenmore 4-Burner Gas Grill is a real standout in the world of outdoor cooking. From the moment I unboxed it, I was impressed by its sturdy construction and sleek stainless steel design. The open cart design not only looks great but also provides ample storage space for grilling tools and accessories. The generously sized 626-square-inch total cooking area, including a dedicated warming rack, easily accommodated a feast for a crowd.
What truly sets this grill apart is its powerful performance. With 53,000 BTUs generated across four primary burners and an additional side burner, you’ll have no trouble achieving those perfect sear marks and maintaining a consistent temperature throughout your cook. The cast iron cooking grates deliver exceptional heat retention and even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly cooked meals every time. I found the electronic ignition to be incredibly convenient, ensuring a quick and effortless start-up.
The side burner is a game-changer, allowing you to simultaneously prepare sauces, side dishes, or even boil water for pasta. This added versatility elevates the grilling experience to a whole new level. Furthermore, the all-terrain wheels make it a breeze to maneuver the grill around your patio or deck.
Overall, the Kenmore 4-Burner Gas Grill offers a fantastic combination of power, features, and user-friendliness. It’s a true value for money, delivering exceptional performance and durability. While the stainless steel finish is beautiful, it might require a bit more upkeep compared to other materials, but the added benefit of corrosion resistance and longevity makes it well worth the effort. If you’re looking for a reliable and feature-packed grill that will elevate your outdoor cooking game, look no further than this Kenmore model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size gas grill with a side burner is best for me?
The ideal size depends on how often you grill and how many people you typically cook for.
- Small grills (2-3 burners): Great for 2-4 people, occasional grilling.
- Medium grills (4-5 burners): Suitable for 4-6 people, frequent grilling.
- Large grills (6+ burners): Perfect for large gatherings, serious grilling enthusiasts.
Consider your available space and cooking needs when choosing.
What features should I look for in a gas grill with a side burner?
- Side burner size: A larger side burner offers more versatility for cooking sauces, sides, or boiling water.
- Grill grates: Stainless steel grates are durable and easy to clean. Porcelain-coated grates are good at distributing heat evenly.
- Flame tamers: These help to distribute heat more evenly and prevent flare-ups.
- Built-in thermometers: Allow for accurate temperature control.
- Storage space: Look for models with built-in storage for tools and accessories.
What kind of gas connection do I need for my grill?
Most gas grills use either a standard propane tank connection or a natural gas hookup.
- Propane: Requires a propane tank that needs to be replaced when empty.
- Natural gas: Requires a permanent gas line connection to your home.
Make sure your available gas source matches your grill’s connection type before making a purchase.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a backyard barbecue beginner, a gas grill with a side burner is a fantastic investment for elevating your grilling game. From compact options to feature-packed behemoths, there’s a perfect grill out there for every grilling enthusiast and budget. So fire up your grill, unleash your culinary creativity, and enjoy the delicious flavors that come with owning the best gas grill with a side burner.