When it comes to outdoor cooking, having a grill with a side burner can elevate your culinary experience. Whether you’re searing steaks, simmering sauces, or sautéing vegetables, a side burner adds versatility to your grilling setup. This ultimate buying guide will help you choose the best grill with a side burner to suit your needs, whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned pitmaster.
We’ve researched and tested top models to bring you the best picks on the market. From gas to charcoal grills, we’ll cover key features like BTU output, construction quality, and additional functionalities. A side burner not only saves time but also keeps your outdoor kitchen organized, making it a must-have for serious grillers.
Ready to upgrade your backyard cooking? Dive into our expert recommendations and find the perfect grill to take your outdoor meals to the next level.
1. Weber Genesis II E-335
Overall Review: The Weber Genesis II E-335 is a premium gas grill that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and versatility for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. With its sleek design, advanced features, and consistent heat distribution, it’s ideal for grilling, searing, and even smoking. The three-burner system provides ample cooking space, while the built-in thermometer and GS4 grilling system ensure precise temperature control. Though it comes at a higher price point, its build quality and innovative technology justify the investment for serious grillers.
What We Like:
- High-Quality Construction: Made with durable stainless steel and porcelain-enameled components for long-lasting use.
- Excellent Heat Distribution: The GS4 grilling system ensures even cooking with minimal hot spots.
- Versatile Cooking Space: Three burners and 669 square inches of cooking area accommodate large meals.
- Smart Grilling Technology: Compatible with the Weber Connect smart hub for monitoring cooking via smartphone.
- Easy Assembly & Maintenance: Straightforward setup and removable grease tray for hassle-free cleaning.
What We Don’t Like:
- Premium Price: More expensive than many competitors, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
- No Side Burner: Lacks an additional side burner for sauces or side dishes, unlike some rival models.
- Heavy Build: The sturdy construction makes it less portable for those who need mobility.
2. Char-Broil Performance 475
Char-Broil Performance 475 Overall Review
The Char-Broil Performance 475 is a high-quality gas grill designed for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts. With a spacious 475-square-inch primary cooking area and an additional 175-square-inch warming rack, it offers ample space for grilling large meals. The grill features durable stainless steel burners, porcelain-coated grates, and a sturdy cart with wheels for easy mobility. Its electronic ignition ensures quick start-ups, while the side burner adds versatility for sauces or side dishes. The Performance 475 delivers consistent heat distribution, making it ideal for searing, roasting, and slow cooking. However, assembly can be time-consuming, and the price point may be high for casual users.
What We Like:
- Large Cooking Space: 475 sq. in. primary grate + 175 sq. in. warming rack for family-sized meals.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel burners and porcelain-coated grates resist rust and wear.
- Even Heat Distribution: Consistent temperatures for perfectly cooked food.
- Side Burner: Convenient for preparing sides or sauces without indoor trips.
- Easy Mobility: Sturdy cart with wheels for effortless relocation.
What We Don’t Like:
- Complex Assembly: Requires significant time and effort to set up.
- Pricey: Higher cost compared to basic gas grills.
- Limited Warranty: Shorter coverage on key components.
- Heavy: Difficult to move without assistance.
3. Napoleon Prestige 500
Napoleon Prestige 500 Overall Review
The Napoleon Prestige 500 is a high-performance gas grill designed for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts. With its durable construction, advanced features, and precise temperature control, this grill delivers professional-grade results. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or searing, the Prestige 500 offers versatility and reliability, making it a top choice for backyard chefs.
What We Like:
- Exceptional Build Quality: Stainless steel construction ensures durability and resistance to rust.
- Powerful Burners: Four main burners provide even heat distribution for consistent cooking.
- Infrared Side Burner: Ideal for high-heat searing or keeping side dishes warm.
- Precision Temperature Control: Adjustable knobs allow for fine-tuning heat levels.
- Spacious Cooking Area: 500 square inches of primary grilling space accommodates large meals.
- Easy Assembly: Clear instructions and well-packaged components simplify setup.
What We Don’t Like:
- High Price Point: Premium features come at a cost, making it less budget-friendly.
- Heavy Weight: The stainless steel build adds significant weight, limiting portability.
- Limited Storage: Side shelves are functional but could offer more storage space.
Overall, the Napoleon Prestige 500 is an excellent investment for those seeking a high-end gas grill with superior performance and longevity. While it may not suit budget-conscious buyers, its features justify the price for serious grillers.
4. Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D
Overall Review: The Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D is a versatile and efficient propane gas grill designed for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. With a spacious cooking area and durable construction, it offers great value for those seeking a reliable grill for backyard barbecues. Its stainless steel burners and even heat distribution ensure consistent performance, while the compact design makes it suitable for smaller spaces. However, some users may find assembly challenging, and the lack of a built-in thermometer is a minor drawback.
What We Like:
- Spacious Cooking Area: Provides ample space for grilling multiple items at once.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel burners and sturdy materials enhance longevity.
- Even Heat Distribution: Ensures consistent cooking results across the grill surface.
- Compact Design: Ideal for patios or smaller outdoor areas.
- Affordable Price: Offers good features for its price range.
What We Don’t Like:
- Assembly Challenges: Some users report difficulty during setup.
- No Built-In Thermometer: Requires an external thermometer for precise temperature control.
- Limited Advanced Features: Lacks extras like side burners or smoker boxes.
5. Blackstone 1554
Overall Review of Blackstone 1554
The Blackstone 1554 is a versatile and durable griddle designed for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. With its spacious cooking surface and sturdy construction, it offers excellent performance for grilling, searing, and preparing large meals. The propane-powered system ensures consistent heat distribution, making it ideal for backyard gatherings or camping trips. While it has many strengths, there are a few drawbacks to consider before purchasing.
What We Like:
- Large Cooking Surface: Provides ample space for multiple dishes at once.
- Even Heat Distribution: Ensures consistent cooking without hot spots.
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials for long-term use.
- Easy to Clean: Features a removable grease tray for hassle-free maintenance.
- Portable Design: Comes with wheels for easy mobility.
What We Don’t Like:
- Assembly Required: Some users may find setup time-consuming.
- Propane Consumption: Uses fuel quickly at high temperatures.
- Bulky Size: Requires significant storage space when not in use.
- Limited Temperature Control: May lack precision for delicate cooking.
Overall, the Blackstone 1554 is a reliable griddle for those who prioritize performance and durability, though buyers should weigh its size and fuel efficiency against their needs.
Buying guide
Finally, what is the best grill with side burner?
After thoroughly reviewing the five top-tier grills—Weber Genesis II E-335, Char-Broil Performance 475, Napoleon Prestige 500, Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D, and Blackstone 1554—it’s clear that each offers unique strengths tailored to different grilling needs. The Weber Genesis II E-335 stands out as the best overall choice, thanks to its exceptional build quality, consistent performance, and innovative features like the GS4 grilling system. Its versatility for both casual and serious grillers makes it a reliable long-term investment.
The Char-Broil Performance 475 impresses with its affordability and solid performance, while the Napoleon Prestige 500 excels in luxury and precision heating. The Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D offers great value for budget-conscious buyers, and the Blackstone 1554 is unbeatable for flat-top cooking enthusiasts. However, the Weber Genesis II E-335’s balance of durability, functionality, and user-friendly design makes it the top recommendation for those seeking a high-performance grill that delivers on all fronts.
Ultimately, the best grill depends on individual preferences, but Weber’s reputation for quality and innovation shines through in the Genesis II E-335, making it the standout pick in this lineup.