The promise of a backyard BBQ often fades when you’re stuck running inside for a heated pot of sauce, or juggling a side burner that can barely simmer. A true grill with a side burner should eliminate that kitchen relay, giving you total outdoor meal control from sear to sauté. The catch is that side burner specs, BTU ratings, and build quality vary wildly across the market.
I’m Rikta — the co-founder and writer behind FitlyFast. After countless hours analyzing burners, BTUs, grate materials, and grease management systems across dozens of models, I’ve narrowed down what actually matters when you’re cooking for a crowd.
Whether you need a compact unit for the patio or a beastly island centerpiece, this guide to the best bbq grill with side burner filters the signal from the noise so you can buy with total confidence.
How To Choose The Best BBQ Grill With Side Burner
A side burner isn’t a simple add-on — it’s a secondary cooking zone that needs its own heat control and thoughtful placement. Before you sort by price or brand, dial in these five factors that separate a versatile outdoor kitchen from a frustratingly underpowered accessory.
BTU Output: Side Burner vs. Main Burners
Main burner BTU is often the headline number, but the side burner’s rating tells you if it can boil water for corn or gently simmer a glaze. A side burner below 8,000 BTU will struggle to boil a large pot. Look for 10,000 BTU or above on the side station if you plan to cook sauces, sides, or even brew coffee outdoors.
Grate Build: Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron vs. Stainless Steel
Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates offer superior heat retention and a non-stick surface that resists rust, but they chip if dropped. Stainless steel grates are virtually maintenance-free and lighter, but they don’t hold searing heat as effectively. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize longevity or sear performance.
Grease Management & Cleanup
A pull-out grease tray with a removable cup is the most practical design — no scraping, no overflow. Rear-draw or front-slide systems vary; the best designs funnel grease away from burners entirely, cutting down flare-ups and making post-cookout cleanup a five-minute job rather than a scrubbing session.
Cooking Surface & Capacity
Total inches matter, but layout matters more. A grill with 500+ square inches of primary cooking area plus a warming rack accommodates several racks of ribs or 30 burgers. If you regularly cook for eight or more, prioritize models with at least 600 square inches of total space.
Build Quality & Warranty
Stainless steel frames and porcelain-enameled lids resist weather far better than painted alloy steel. Check for 10-year warranties on burners and fireboxes, especially at premium price points. A lower-cost grill with thin-gauge steel can rust within a season, while a heavier-built unit lasts a decade with minimal maintenance.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weber Genesis S-335 | Premium | Advanced home chefs | 3 main + 1 side burner, 39,000 BTU | Amazon |
| Weber Spirit E-435 | Premium | Versatile searing | 4 burners + side, Boost burners, Sear Zone | Amazon |
| Napoleon Rogue PRO 425 | Premium | Infrared grilling | 3 main + IR side burner, stainless grates | Amazon |
| Brand-Man 40-Inch 6-Burner | Premium | Outdoor kitchen islands | 6 burners, 60,000 BTU total, cast iron griddle | Amazon |
| Royal Gourmet GA6402B | Mid-Range | Large gatherings (8-10) | 6 burners, 74,000 BTU, 835 sq.in. | Amazon |
| Royal Gourmet GA5403B | Mid-Range | Rotisserie and searing | 5 burners + rear burner, 74,000 BTU | Amazon |
| Captiva Designs 4-Burner | Mid-Range | Small family BBQs | 4 burners, 42,000 BTU, 545 sq.in. | Amazon |
| Bestfire 5-Burner | Budget-Friendly | High BTU on a budget | 5 burners + side, 68,000 BTU | Amazon |
| Electactic 3-Burner | Budget-Friendly | Compact patios & camping | 3 burners + side, 34,000 BTU | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Weber Genesis S-335
The Weber Genesis S-335 is the benchmark for a premium propane grill with a dedicated side burner. Its three PureBlu burners and extra-large Sear Zone deliver consistent heat across the stainless steel grates, while the 10,000 BTU side burner powers sauces and sides without hogging the main cooking surface. The FLAVORIZER bars vaporize drippings for authentic smoke flavor while preventing flare-ups.
Assembly requires a helper, but the build quality justifies the effort — the stainless steel lid, cast-aluminum cookbox, and enclosed cabinet feel substantial. Owners frequently note that temperature control is precise, holding steady even during long low-and-slow cooks. The top-tier grease management system with a pull-out tray simplifies cleanup tremendously.
At this tier, you also get compatibility with the WEBER CRAFTED system, meaning you can add a pizza stone, griddle, or Dutch oven later. For anyone serious about outdoor cooking who wants a grill that will last fifteen years, this is the finest choice on the market.
Why it’s great
- PureBlu burners provide even heat distribution with no cold spots.
- Large Sear Zone handles multiple steaks simultaneously.
- FLAVORIZER bars boost flavor and reduce flare-ups.
Good to know
- Premium pricing demands a serious investment.
- Assembly is not a one-person job.
2. Weber Spirit E-435
The Weber Spirit E-435 packs Boost burners that unleash 40 percent more power into the largest Sear Zone in its class. This means you can get a restaurant-quality crust on a ribeye while the side burner simmers a peppercorn cream sauce. The porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates retain heat beautifully and release food easily.
Weber’s Snap-Jet ignition lights each burner individually with one hand, and the cabinet hides the propane tank cleanly. The side tables are scratch-resistant Hammertone metal, providing solid workspace. Assembly takes about 90 minutes with two people, and the 10-year limited warranty backs the cookbox and burners.
Some users note that the included thermometer reads a bit high compared to a digital probe, but the grill itself holds steady temperatures. If you want Weber DNA with a searing-focused design and a capable side burner at a lower price than the Genesis line, this is your sweet spot.
Why it’s great
- Boost burners deliver intense searing heat on demand.
- Porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates are non-stick and rust-resistant.
- Side burner placement is convenient for multitasking.
Good to know
- Assembly instructions can be dense; allow time.
- Temperature gauge may need calibration.
3. Napoleon Rogue PRO 425
The Napoleon Rogue PRO 425 stands apart thanks to its infrared side burner, which radiates intense, even heat for stir-frying, wok cooking, or searing vegetables while your main grates handle the meat. The stainless steel WAVE cooking grids are virtually maintenance-free and produce attractive sear marks with minimal sticking.
Backlit control knobs with white LED lighting make after-dark cooking safer and more convenient — a thoughtful detail for evening BBQs. The 3 main burners provide ample coverage for a family, and the folding side table helps when storage space is tight. Assembly instructions are almost entirely pictographic, so plan for a patient afternoon.
Some buyers feel the price is steep for the feature set, and the side burner control knob placement can feel awkward. But once assembled, the grill reaches temperatures up to 700°F and holds steady. For those who want an infrared cooking option built right into the side station, this is a unique and high-performing choice.
Why it’s great
- Infrared side burner delivers intense, even wok-level heat.
- Backlit knobs improve visibility and safety at night.
- Stainless steel grates are durable and easy to clean.
Good to know
- Assembly instructions are purely pictorial and can be confusing.
- Side burner control placement is less ergonomic.
4. Brand-Man 40-Inch 6-Burner
The Brand-Man 6-burner is designed as a built-in head for an outdoor kitchen island, offering 860 square inches of total cooking space — 620 primary plus a 240-square-inch warming rack. Two cast-iron grates and an additional cast-iron griddle plate make this a true multitasker: sear steaks on one side, fry eggs and bacon on the griddle.
The 304 stainless steel construction resists corrosion, and the removable front grease trays make cleanup shockingly simple. It ships in LPG configuration but can be converted to natural gas with a kit sold separately. Buyers consistently praise the even heat distribution and the ability to cook multiple courses without any burn zone being too hot or too cool.
This is not a freestanding cart grill — it’s meant to drop into a built-in island with specific cutout dimensions. If you’re constructing a permanent outdoor kitchen and want maximum burner count plus a griddle, this is a compelling unit that beats many premium brands on value.
Why it’s great
- Includes both cast-iron grates and a griddle plate.
- Generous 860 sq.in. total cooking area.
- Removable grease trays simplify cleanup.
Good to know
- Designed for built-in installation, not freestanding use.
- Natural gas conversion kit must be purchased separately.
5. Royal Gourmet GA6402B
The Royal Gourmet GA6402B delivers 74,000 BTU across five main burners, a dedicated sear burner, and a 10,000 BTU side burner, plus a warming rack spanning 835 square inches. This setup easily handles 21 burgers at once, making it a true family-weekend and party machine. The porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates and flame tamers distribute heat without problematic hot spots.
Electronic push-button ignition is reliable, and the four lockable caster wheels allow you to roll the grill into position and lock it down securely. The blue porcelain-enameled lid resists rust and looks distinctive on any patio. Assembly is not trivial — plan for three hours with a helper — but the instructions are clear and most parts fit well.
A few owners report that the cabinet doors can feel flimsy, and the side burner grate is somewhat small for large pots. However, for the total cooking area and BTU output, this grill competes strongly with units costing significantly more. If you regularly host gatherings of eight to ten people, this is the best bang for your buck.
Why it’s great
- Massive 835 sq.in. total cooking area for large groups.
- Sear burner adds high-heat capability for steaks.
- Lockable wheels for easy mobility and secure parking.
Good to know
- Assembly takes several hours; cabinet doors feel light.
- Side burner grate is small for larger pots.
6. Royal Gourmet GA5403B
The Royal Gourmet GA5403B differentiates itself with a 14,000 BTU sear burner and a 10,000 BTU rear burner designed for rotisserie cooking (kit not included, but the burner is ready for it). Combined with the lidded 10,000 BTU side burner, this seven-burner system delivers genuine versatility — sear steaks, roast a chicken on the spit, and simmer beans all at once.
The 566-square-inch porcelain-enameled cast-iron primary grates and 172-square-inch warming rack accommodate about 34 hamburgers. The powder-coated steel frame and blue lid resist weather well, though the alloy steel construction is not as rust-proof as full stainless. Assembly is straightforward if you follow the instructions, but some buyers note that the cart can feel slightly flimsy.
One significant concern is regulator reliability — there are isolated reports of defective units causing erratic flame behavior. If you test the regulator on arrival and get a good unit, the performance is excellent for the price point. For rotisserie enthusiasts on a mid-range budget, this is a unique configuration.
Why it’s great
- Dedicated rear burner supports rotisserie cooking.
- Sear burner provides high heat for perfect crust.
- Lidded side burner keeps sauces warm and covered.
Good to know
- Alloy steel frame is less rust-resistant than full stainless.
- Some units may have regulator issues — test on arrival.
7. Captiva Designs 4-Burner
The Captiva Designs 4-burner offers 545 square inches of cooking space with porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates that provide excellent heat retention and non-stick cooking. The four stainless steel burners plus side burner produce 42,000 BTU, which is modest compared to the big dogs but more than adequate for a family of four to six.
The full-size pull-out oil drip tray is one of the best grease management systems at this budget tier — simply slide it out, dump, and wipe. The bottom storage cabinet easily holds a propane tank and utensils, keeping the cooking area tidy. Assembly is straightforward with clear instructions, and the painted finish holds up decently if you keep the grill covered.
Some units arrive with cosmetic dings or scratches from shipping, and a small number of owners report paint flaking inside the cookbox. For the price, the cooking performance is solid, with even heat and quick warm-up times. This is a reliable choice for someone who needs a good grill with a side burner without overspending.
Why it’s great
- Porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates perform well above the price point.
- Pull-out grease tray simplifies post-cookout cleanup.
- Spacious storage cabinet keeps accessories organized.
Good to know
- Some units have cosmetic damage from shipping.
- Paint inside cookbox may degrade with high heat over time.
8. Bestfire 5-Burner
The Bestfire 5-burner punches above its weight with 68,000 BTU total output from five main burners and a side burner. The 647-square-inch total cooking space includes heavy-duty porcelain-enameled cast iron grates that retain heat evenly and produce satisfying sear marks. The 304 stainless steel body and rust-proof cart cabinet offer durability that rivals costlier competitors.
Assembly is the main challenge here — the instructions can be confusing, and the lower cabinet uses thinner metal that some users feel may rust over time. Watching the manufacturer’s video tutorial before assembly is strongly recommended. Once together, the push-button ignition fires immediately and the grill reaches high temperatures quickly.
Two of the four wheels lock, giving you solid stability on uneven patios. The side burner works well for sauces and side dishes, though the control placement is standard. For buyers who want high BTU and a large cooking area without jumping to premium pricing, the Bestfire is a strong contender if you’re prepared for a more involved assembly.
Why it’s great
- 68,000 BTU output heats up fast and stays hot.
- Large 647 sq.in. cooking surface with cast iron grates.
- 304 stainless steel body for corrosion resistance.
Good to know
- Assembly instructions are confusing; watch the video tutorial.
- Cabinet metal is thinner and may rust in humid climates.
9. Electactic 3-Burner
The Electactic 3-burner is the most portable option in this lineup, with 373 square inches of cooking surface and a total output of 34,000 BTU (including the 10,500 BTU side burner). It is built for small patios, camping, or tailgating where space is at a premium but you still want a dedicated side burner for sauces or sides.
The stainless steel frame and porcelain-enameled grates are well-constructed for the price, and the double-layer hood retains heat efficiently. Clever design touches include hidden tool hooks integrated into the side shelf and an SUS304 bottle opener. The rear-draw grease system channels oil into a removable cup, making cleanup simple after every session.
At this budget level, the materials are thinner and the total cooking area is smaller, so it won’t handle a large party. However, for a couple or a small family who want the convenience of a side burner without dedicating half the patio to a massive cart, this is a compact, capable, and well-thought-out solution.
Why it’s great
- Compact footprint fits small patios and camping trips.
- Hidden tool hooks and bottle opener add convenience.
- Rear-draw grease system keeps cleanup quick.
Good to know
- Total cooking area is limited to small gatherings.
- Build materials are lighter gauge compared to premium models.
FAQ
Is a grill with a side burner worth the extra space and cost?
Can I use the side burner with a wok or large pot?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the bbq grill with side burner winner is the Weber Genesis S-335 because it combines precise PureBlu burners, a powerful Sear Zone, and a well-integrated side burner in a durable, long-lasting package. If you want intense searing and Boost burners at a slightly lower investment, grab the Weber Spirit E-435. And for large family gatherings where cooking area and BTU output matter most, nothing beats the Royal Gourmet GA6402B.