Gas Grill with Side Burner Collection: Enhance Your Outdoor Cooking Experience
Welcome to our curated collection of grills with side burners, designed to elevate your outdoor cooking experience. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or just starting your culinary journey, a gas grill with a side burner offers unparalleled versatility. Explore the different types and find the perfect grill to suit your needs.
Understanding Gas Grills with Side Burners
What is a Grill with Side Burner?
A gas grill with a side burner is an outdoor cooking appliance that combines the functionality of a grill with the added convenience of a standalone burner. Typically fueled by propane or natural gas, the main burners provide the intense heat needed for searing and grilling, while the side burner offers a separate cooking surface for preparing sauces, side dishes, or boiling water. This combination allows you to create complete meals outdoors, making it an ideal addition to any outdoor kitchen.
Benefits of Using a Side Burner
The benefits of a side burner are numerous.
It allows for multitasking during outdoor cooking, keeping side dishes warm or cooking sauces while simultaneously grilling. This avoids the need to run back and forth to the indoor kitchen. The side burner can be used for gourmet preparations and makes outdoor barbecue experiences much more efficient. Many side burners can be used for searing, with high BTU ratings.
Types of Side Burners Available
Side burners come in various types, offering a range of features. You might find differences in:
- The number of burners, from single to multiple, affecting cooking power.
- The burner technology, such as infrared options for intense searing.
- The grate material, with common choices like stainless steel and cast iron, impacting heat retention and durability.
There are even side burners designed for specific tasks, like wok cooking.
Choosing the Right Gas Grill with Side Burner
Propane vs. Natural Gas Grills
When choosing between a propane gas grill and a natural gas grill with a side burner, consider your convenience and access to fuel. There are key differences between the two, including:
- Propane grills are portable and require liquid propane tanks, making them ideal for decks and patios.
- Natural gas grills connect directly to your home's natural gas line, eliminating the need for tank refills.
Each has its advantages, and the choice often depends on whether you have access to a natural gas line on your property.
Burner Configuration: 2-Burner vs. 4-Burner Gas Grills
The burner configuration significantly impacts your grilling experience. A 2 burner gas grill with a side burner is ideal for smaller families or individuals who primarily grill occasionally.
A 4 burner gas grill with a side burner offers a larger cooking area, allowing you to cook for larger groups or prepare multiple dishes simultaneously. Some grills even offer 5-burner configurations for maximum cooking space and versatility.
BTU Ratings and Cooking Power
BTU ratings are a measure of the gas grill's heating capacity.
Higher BTU ratings generally indicate greater cooking power. However, it's essential to consider the cooking area of the grill as well. A grill with high BTUs but a small cooking space might not distribute heat evenly. Look for a balance between BTU rating and cooking space to ensure efficient and consistent grilling, with even heat distribution across the porcelain-enameled cast iron grates.
Features to Look for in a BBQ Grill with Side Burner
Material Quality: Stainless Steel vs. Cast Iron
When selecting a gas grill, material choices significantly impact performance. Two popular options for grates are:
- Stainless steel, known for its excellent durability and resistance to rust, which ensures the longevity of your grill.
- Cast iron, particularly with a porcelain-enameled finish, offering superior heat retention for searing and even heat distribution.
Consider the trade-offs between the two to find the best fit for your grilling needs; stainless steel provides durability, but porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are better for searing.
Griddle Options for Versatile Cooking
Some grills offer a griddle as an integrated feature or as an add-on accessory.
A griddle expands your outdoor cooking capabilities, allowing you to prepare breakfast items like pancakes and eggs, or stir-fry dishes with ease. A grill with porcelain-enameled cast iron grates is excellent for traditional barbecue, while a griddle option adds versatility, turning your gas grill into a multifaceted cooking station. Look for a side burner option that also works as a griddle for even more cooking potential when you're using the grill.
Built-in Thermometers and Other Useful Features
A built-in thermometer is an invaluable feature for any grill. It allows you to monitor the internal temperature of the gas grill, ensuring precise cooking and preventing over or undercooking. Other useful features include warming racks, side tables for prep space, and a grill cover to protect your grill from the elements. Certain gourmet models come with features like gas grill with sear functions or a gas grill in black, for an enhanced grilling experience when you're using your BBQ. A portable propane gas grill with a side burner provides ultimate convenience for outdoor barbecue.
Customer Reviews: What Users Are Saying
Popular Features Highlighted by Users
Customer reviews frequently highlight the convenience and versatility of a gas grill with side burner. Many users praise the ability to prepare side dishes and sauces simultaneously while grilling, enhancing their outdoor cooking experience. The BTU output is often mentioned, with users appreciating the power for searing. The durability of stainless steel burners and the even heat distribution of porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are also commonly praised, contributing to user satisfaction and ease of use with their BBQ.
Common Complaints and Considerations
While the gas grill with side burner receives positive feedback, common complaints often revolve around assembly difficulties and the need for regular maintenance. Some users mention that cleaning the porcelain-enameled cast iron grates can be challenging, and others note that the BTU output on some models may not be as high as advertised. Potential buyers should carefully consider these concerns and factor them into their decision-making process for their grill. A side burner can make gourmet meals easier.
Overall Satisfaction Ratings
Overall satisfaction ratings for grills with side burners are generally high.
Users appreciate the enhanced cooking capabilities and convenience that a side burner provides for their outdoor barbecue. A natural gas grill with side burner connected to a natural gas line offers convenience, while a propane gas grill provides portability. Models like a 4 burner gas grill or even a 5-burner gas grill often receive higher ratings due to their increased cooking space and versatility when it comes to outdoor cooking, using either liquid propane or natural gas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the primary advantage of having a side burner on a gas grill?
The primary advantage of having a side burner on a gas grill is the enhanced versatility it provides for outdoor cooking. With a side burner, you can simultaneously grill your main course while preparing sauces, side dishes, or boiling water, eliminating the need to constantly run back and forth to the indoor kitchen. This makes outdoor cooking more efficient and enjoyable, allowing you to create complete meals in your backyard.
Can a side burner be used for searing?
Yes, some side burners are designed specifically for searing. These models often feature higher BTU ratings and may even use infrared technology to achieve extremely high temperatures. This intense heat allows you to quickly sear steaks and other meats, creating a delicious crust while locking in juices. A gas grill with sear capabilities on the side burner offers professional-level grilling results right in your own backyard, turning every barbecue into a gourmet experience.
Is it better to choose a propane grill with side burner or a natural gas grill with side burner?
The choice between a propane grill with side burner and a natural gas grill with side burner depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Propane gas grill models offer portability, allowing you to easily move your grill around your patio or deck.
Natural gas grills, on the other hand, connect directly to your home's natural gas line, eliminating the need for propane tank refills. Consider your access to natural gas and your desire for portability when making your decision for outdoor cooking.
What should I look for in terms of BTU rating for a grill with side burner?
When evaluating BTU ratings for a grill with side burner, it's important to consider both the total BTU output and the BTU output of the individual burners.
A higher total BTU rating generally indicates greater overall cooking power. However, it's also crucial to ensure that the BTUs are distributed efficiently across the cooking area. Look for a balance between BTU rating, cooking space, and burner configuration to ensure even heat distribution and efficient grilling.
How do I maintain a gas grill with side burner to ensure its longevity?
To ensure the longevity of your gas grill with side burner, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential. After each use, clean the grates with a grill brush to remove food residue. Periodically clean the burners to prevent clogs and ensure proper flame distribution. Cover the grill with a grill cover when not in use to protect it from the elements. Inspect the gas lines and connections regularly for leaks. Following these simple steps will help keep your grill in top condition for years to come.
Maintenance Tips for Your Gas Grill with Side Burner
Cleaning Techniques for Different Materials
Maintaining your gas grill with side burner involves understanding how to clean different materials effectively. For stainless steel burners and grates, use a stainless steel cleaner and a soft cloth to avoid scratches.
Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates require gentle scrubbing with a brush and warm, soapy water. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the porcelain-enameled finish and the stainless steel of your BBQ grill with side burner. Regular cleaning ensures even heat distribution and prevents buildup that can affect the flavor of your outdoor cooking.
Protecting Your Grill with Covers
A grill cover is essential for protecting your gas grill with side burner from the elements. Choose a grill cover made from durable, waterproof material to shield your gas grill from rain, snow, and sun. A well-fitted cover prevents rust and corrosion, extending the life of your grill. Before covering your BBQ, ensure that it is completely cool to prevent moisture buildup. This simple step can significantly increase the lifespan of your propane gas grill or natural gas grill.
Regular Maintenance for Longevity
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity of your gas grill with side burner. Inspect the burners and gas lines for any signs of wear or damage. Clean the burners regularly to prevent clogs that can affect performance. Check the built-in thermometer for accuracy and replace it if necessary. Lubricate any moving parts to keep them functioning smoothly. By performing these routine tasks, you can keep your 4-burner or 5-burner gas grill in top condition for years of outdoor cooking.
FAQ About Grills with Side Burners
What is the best gas grill with a side burner?
Determining the "best" gas grill with side burner depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as cooking space, BTU output, material quality, and additional features like a griddle or sear burner.
A 4 burner gas grill with side burner or a 5-burner gas grill with side burner might be ideal for larger families or frequent entertainers. Look for models with stainless steel burners and porcelain-enameled cast iron grates for durability and even heat distribution for your outdoor barbecue.
Can I use a side burner for boiling?
Yes, you can absolutely use a side burner for boiling. In fact, a side burner is an excellent tool for boiling water, especially when you're preparing side dishes like pasta or corn on the cob. The high BTU output of many side burners allows water to boil quickly, saving you time and effort. This makes the side burner a versatile addition to your outdoor cooking setup, allowing you to prepare complete meals without ever stepping foot inside your indoor kitchen, when you're using the grill.
How do I choose between propane and natural gas?
Choosing between a propane gas grill and a natural gas grill with side burner involves considering several factors.
Propane gas grill models are portable and require a liquid propane tank, making them ideal for decks and patios where a natural gas line isn't available.
Natural gas grills connect directly to your home's natural gas line, eliminating the need for tank refills. Assess your access to a natural gas line and your preference for portability to determine which fuel type is best for your outdoor cooking needs, when using the side burner.
