How to Choose a Grill with a Side Burner for Sauces

Updated 2026-07-12 · 1 Tier Finds

When you choose grill with side burner, you’re not just buying a cooking surface—you’re adding a dedicated spot for sauces, sautéed veggies, and finishing touches that take a BBQ from good to great. The right combo unit can save you space, reduce mess, and keep your main grill focused on searing meat. Below is the no‑fluff guide we use at Top Tier Finds to match grills and smokers to real‑world needs, from tight decks to sprawling patios.

Identify Your Primary Cooking Method

Grills with side burners come in three main fuel families, and each has a distinct impact on flavor, heat control, and upkeep:

• Gas – Instant heat, easy temperature tweaks, and clean operation. Ideal for weeknight cooks who value convenience.
• Charcoal – Classic smoky flavor with a hands‑on experience. Works well for enthusiasts who enjoy the ritual of lighting coals.
• Pellet – Hybrid of wood‑smoked taste and digital precision. Best for those who want set‑and‑forget consistency while still getting that wood‑kissed flavor.

Pick the fuel type that aligns with how often you grill, the flavor profile you crave, and the amount of time you’re willing to spend on fire‑up and cleanup. This decision narrows the field before you even look at side‑burner specs.

Size and Layout: Fit the Burner into Your Space

Side burners add width and sometimes height to a grill, so measure your patio or deck before you shop. A 36‑inch grill with a side burner typically needs a 40‑inch footprint and a 6‑inch clearance on each side for safety. If you’re limited to a balcony or small patio, look for compact models that slot the burner beneath the main cooking area or use a fold‑away design.

Consider the cooking volume you need. A single‑zone grill with a 300‑sq‑in cooking surface paired with a 6‑inch side burner works for a family of four. For larger gatherings, a two‑zone or multi‑zone setup with a 500‑sq‑in main area and a 12‑inch burner will let you sear steaks, slow‑cook ribs, and simmer a pot of sauce simultaneously.

Side‑Burner Features That Actually Matter

Not all burners are created equal. Here’s what to look for:

1. BTU Rating – A burner that puts out 10,000‑15,000 BTU will bring a pot of sauce to a boil quickly. Anything lower than 8,000 BTU can feel sluggish, especially in cooler weather.
2. Material – Cast‑iron burners retain heat better than stainless steel but are heavier. If you plan to move the grill often, a stainless‑steel burner with a thick gauge will be more durable.
3. Control Knob – Look for a dedicated, easy‑to‑grip knob that offers a full range from low simmer to high sear. Some models bundle the side‑burner control with the main grill, which can be confusing during multi‑task cooking.
4. Ignition – Integrated electronic ignition saves you from a separate lighter. Ensure the ignition works independently of the main burners; a fault on the grill shouldn’t prevent you from heating your sauce.

These specs dictate how well your side burner will handle everything from a delicate glaze to a hearty chili.

Budget Tiers and What to Expect

Grills with side burners span a wide price range. Here’s a quick guide to what you’ll typically get in each bracket:

• Budget ($150‑$300) – Small gas or charcoal units with a modest 6‑inch burner. Expect basic controls, thin metal construction, and limited warranty.
• Mid‑range ($300‑$700) – Larger gas models with 10‑12 inch burners, better materials, and added features like side‑shelf storage, rotisserie kits, or integrated temperature gauges.
• Premium ($700‑$1,500+) – Premium pellet grills or high‑end gas combos that include dual burners, stainless‑steel grates, Wi‑Fi temperature monitoring, and robust warranty coverage.

Don’t chase a specific dollar amount; focus on the features that matter for your cooking style. Amazon often carries a variety of models across these tiers, making it easy to compare specs and read real‑user feedback.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even seasoned grillers fall into a few traps:

• Overlooking ventilation – A side burner adds extra heat; ensure your grill has adequate airflow to prevent flare‑ups.
• Ignoring weight limits – Some portable grills can’t support a heavy pot on the side burner. Check the manufacturer’s load rating before adding a Dutch oven.
• Skipping regular cleaning – Grease buildup on the burner can cause uneven heating and flare‑ups. Clean the burner grates after each use and wipe down the burner housing weekly.
• Choosing the wrong fuel for your climate – In windy or cold regions, a gas grill with a side burner may struggle to maintain sauce temperature, whereas a pellet grill’s insulated design can keep things steady.

Addressing these issues up front saves you frustration and extends the life of your grill.

Setup, Maintenance, and Longevity Tips

Once you’ve chosen the right unit, proper setup and routine care are essential:

1. Place the grill on a level, non‑combustible surface with at least 3 feet of clearance on all sides.
2. For gas models, inspect hoses and connections for cracks before each season; replace any suspect parts immediately.
3. Season cast‑iron side burners with a thin coat of oil and heat them for 30 minutes to build a protective patina.
4. After each cooking session, scrape residue from the burner grates, wipe the burner housing, and run the burners on low for 5 minutes to burn off leftover drips.
5. Schedule an annual deep clean: disassemble removable parts, soak them in warm soapy water, and inspect for rust or wear.

Following these steps keeps your side burner efficient, prevents flare‑ups, and ensures your sauces stay consistently hot.

FAQ

Do I need a separate propane tank for the side burner?

Most gas grills share a single tank, and the side burner draws from the same source. Just be sure the tank capacity can handle simultaneous cooking—most 20‑lb tanks are sufficient for a full grill and burner run.

Can I use a side burner on a charcoal grill?

Yes, but the burner is typically a separate metal plate that sits on the grill’s grates. You’ll need to light the burner with a torch or match, and keep an eye on ash buildup that can block airflow.

Is a side burner worth the extra cost?

If you regularly make sauces, sauté vegetables, or need a hot pot while the main grill is occupied, the side burner pays for itself in convenience and flavor control. For occasional grillers, a simple portable burner or a separate stovetop pot may be more economical.