Best BBQ Grills with Side Burners in 2025 – Sear, Simmer, and Grill Like a Pro

If you love multitasking at the grill—searing steaks while simmering sauce, sautéing veggies, or boiling corn on the cob—then a BBQ grill with a side burner is a game-changing upgrade. In 2025, more grills than ever feature integrated side burners, turning your standard backyard BBQ into a full outdoor kitchen.

This guide will break down exactly why side burners are so valuable, what to look for when buying one, and which models stand out this year for performance, cooking space, and overall value.

Why Choose a BBQ Grill with a Side Burner?

Many people think of side burners as a bonus feature, but in reality they can transform the way you cook outdoors. Instead of constantly running inside to use the stove, you can prepare your entire meal on one grill.

🔥 Key Benefits:

Cook sides and sauces at the same time as your main meal
Boil pasta, potatoes, or corn while your meat is on the main grates
Make sauces, beans, or even stir-fry outdoors without juggling pots inside
Save time by cooking everything together instead of in separate stages
Use the side burner as extra prep space when it’s covered

With side burners typically producing 10,000–12,000 BTUs, you get the same kind of power you’d expect from a stovetop, but in the convenience of your outdoor space.

What to Look for in a Side Burner Grill (2025 Edition)

Not all grills with side burners are created equal. If you’re investing in one this year, here are the most important features to prioritize:

✅ 1. High-Performance Main Burners
The side burner is only part of the equation—you’ll also want at least 30,000+ BTUs of heat from your main burners to ensure fast, even cooking across the primary grill surface.

✅ 2. Covered Side Burner
A lid over the side burner allows you to use it as extra workspace when it’s not in use. This makes a big difference during busy cooking sessions.

✅ 3. Durable Build
Look for stainless steel or porcelain-coated components to withstand the weather, resist rust, and make cleaning easier.

✅ 4. Cooking Space
For families or frequent entertainers, 400–600 square inches of main cooking space is ideal. This ensures you have plenty of room to grill while using the side burner for extras.

✅ 5. Extra Features That Count

Push-button or electronic ignition for quick starts
Side shelves for prep and serving
Tool hooks or cabinet storage for accessories
Built-in thermometer for better control

These small details add up to a smoother grilling experience, especially during larger gatherings.

Top BBQ Grills with Side Burners in 2025

Here are three excellent options that bring together power, convenience, and versatility.

🔥 1. Full-Size Gas Grill with Side Burner

Best for Family Grilling

If you entertain regularly or cook for a larger household, a full-size gas grill with a side burner is the all-in-one solution. These grills are designed for versatility, giving you enough main cooking space for burgers, steaks, and ribs, while the side burner handles sauces or sides at the same time.

Highlights:

3–4 stainless steel burners with strong BTU output
Side burner producing 10,000–12,000 BTUs
500–600 sq. in. of primary cooking space
Electronic ignition system for fast startup
Covered side burner for prep space when not in use
Built-in thermometer and warming rack for extra control

Why It’s Great:
This setup is powerful enough to be your main outdoor kitchen. You can grill your mains while simultaneously boiling pasta, making gravy, or keeping a sauce simmering on the side. It’s the best all-around choice for family cookouts.

🔥 2. Mid-Size Combo Grill

Best Value Pick

Perfect for weekend grilling and smaller households, a mid-size combo grill gives you the benefits of a side burner without taking up too much space—or too much of your budget.

Highlights:

2–3 main burners plus a side burner
Compact footprint, ideal for patios or smaller yards
Fold-down shelves for space-saving storage
Durable stainless steel or powder-coated construction
Side burner doubles as prep space when covered

Why It’s Great:
It’s affordable, practical, and versatile. You can sear meat, sauté veggies, or warm up beans all at once—without needing a premium-priced grill. A smart pick for anyone upgrading from a starter grill.

🔥 3. Premium 4-Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner

Best for Entertaining & Outdoor Kitchens

If you’re serious about grilling and want your backyard to be the centerpiece of gatherings, a premium 4-burner model is the way to go. These grills combine sleek design with serious cooking power.

Highlights:

4 main burners plus a high-BTU side burner
Large 600+ sq. in. cooking surface
LED-lit knobs and integrated controls for evening cooking
Rotisserie compatibility for next-level versatility
Spacious cabinet storage for propane and tools
Premium stainless steel build for durability and aesthetics

Why It’s Great:
This grill isn’t just about cooking—it’s about entertaining. From searing steaks to running a rotisserie chicken while simmering a side dish, it turns your outdoor space into a true chef’s station. Perfect for those who love to host.

Final Verdict: Which Side Burner Grill Should You Choose?

For families and everyday grillers, a full-size gas grill with side burner offers the perfect balance of space, power, and flexibility.
For budget-conscious buyers or smaller patios, the mid-size combo grill is a smart choice that won’t sacrifice performance.
For entertainers and BBQ enthusiasts, the premium 4-burner with side burner is the ultimate outdoor cooking upgrade.

Pro Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Side Burner

Use it for sauces, beans, or gravies while grilling the main course.
Keep a cast-iron skillet or saucepan dedicated for your side burner.
Close the lid on the side burner when not in use for extra prep space.
Don’t forget safety—just like your main burners, never leave it unattended while lit.

Cook Smarter in 2025

A BBQ grill with a side burner gives you the freedom to cook your whole meal outdoors—from searing steaks to simmering sides. In 2025, the best grills combine power, convenience, and durability, turning your backyard into an extension of your kitchen.

Choose the one that fits your style, your space, and your budget—and you’ll be grilling like a pro all summer long.

Grill Type	Best For	Burner Setup
Full-Size Grill	Families & backyard pros	3-4 burners + side burner
Mid-Size Combo Grill	Casual grillers & smaller patios	2-3 burners + side burner
Premium 4-Burner Grill	Entertainers & outdoor chefs	4 burners + side burner