Infrared side burners add a powerful auxiliary cooking zone that heats quickly and helps manage sauces, sides, or delicate proteins without starving the main grill. Below are five top picks that balance infrared performance with durable construction, spacious cooking areas, and easy cleaning. Each option combines main burners with a dedicated infrared side burner for fast, even searing and versatile weeknight meals.
| Product | Key Benefit | Cooking Area | Infrared Side Burner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared Technology | Modular system with optional griddle or charcoal tray | Noted on product page | Yes |
| Veralune 55,000 BTU 4+1 Burner Gas Grill | Powerful main burners with dedicated infrared side burner | 402 sq in primary | Yes |
| SKOK 4+1 Burners Gas Grill | Infrared side burner plus upgraded cast iron grates | Noted on product page | Yes |
| IdeaMaxx 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill | Fast heating and efficient heat distribution | Noted on product page | Yes |
| Monument Grills Larger 4+2 Burner Propane Grill | Infrared side sear burner with extra side burner | 723 sq in total | Yes |
Charbroil Pro Series With Amplifire Infrared Technology
The Charbroil Pro Series combines Amplifire infrared technology with a modular cooking system, enabling quick transitions between grilling, griddling, and even charcoal grilling when paired with a Gas2Coal tray (sold separately). It heats to around 500°F in under 10 minutes, delivering even heat across cast-iron, porcelain-coated grates that resist rust and deliver strong sear marks. A griddle top of 328 square inches expands cooking options, with a heavy-duty surface that distributes heat evenly and includes a rear grease slot for easier cleanup. The design supports versatile outdoor cooking in a compact cabinet setup.
Veralune 55,000 BTU 4+1 Burner Gas Grill With Infrared Side Burner
This Veralune model packs 42,000 BTU across four main burners plus a dedicated 13,000 BTU infrared side burner for sauces, sides, or skillet use without impacting main grill performance. The 4+1 arrangement uses porcelain-enameled cast iron grates for durability and easy cleanup, paired with stainless steel burners and flame tamers for even heat distribution. With 402 square inches of primary cooking space and a 146-square-inch warming rack, it supports gatherings of moderate size. The design emphasizes rust resistance and long-term heat retention for reliable outdoor cooking.
SKOK 4+1 Burners Gas Grill With Infrared Side Burners
SKOK integrates infrared technology that reaches up to 1100°F in about 30 seconds, enabling quick searing and moisture retention. The 4+1 burner setup combines four main stainless steel burners with a dedicated infrared side burner, complemented by upgraded porcelain-enameled cast iron grates for rust resistance and heat retention. The grill is designed to perform in varying weather, offering reliable fast heating and significantly reduced flare-ups. An optional smoker box feature adds wood-smoke flavor to elevate dishes beyond standard grilling.
IdeaMaxx 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill With Side Burner
IdeaMaxx delivers 46,790 BTU across four main burners and an 8,550 BTU infrared side burner designed for sauces, corn, or frying sides without slowing the main grill. Fast heating and uniform heat distribution are achieved through optimized burner design and heavy-duty cast iron grates with a porcelain-enamel coating for sticking resistance and rust protection. Cleanup is straightforward, thanks to durable materials and a design that minimizes flare-ups while maintaining strong sear marks across the cooking surface.
Monument Grills Larger 4+2 Burner Propane Grill
This Monument Grills model emphasizes a robust 72,000 BTU total across four main burners plus a dedicated side burner and a high-heat sear burner. The 723-square-inch cooking area provides extensive space for large gatherings, with 513 square inches of primary cooking and 210 square inches warming rack. Cast iron, porcelain-coated grates contribute to even heat and long-lasting durability. The design includes a clear view lid and integrated thermometer for monitoring, enhancing user control during longer cooks and multi-dish sessions.
Monument Grills Outdoor Barbecue Stainless Steel 4 Burner
Monument Grills’ 4-burner stainless steel cabinet grill integrates a dedicated infrared side sear burner with a side burner, knob controls, and a built-in thermometer. With a 630-square-inch cooking area (450 main, 180 warming), the sear zone aims to deliver up to 650°F quickly by concentrating heat through U-shaped flame holes and a refined flame taming design. The Clearview lid helps monitor food without losing heat, making multi-dish sessions more manageable for outdoor cooks who value precise temp control.
Monument Grills Larger 4-Burner, Infrared Side Sear & Side Burners
This model emphasizes a high-heat sear zone with infrared technology and multiple burners, offering 72,000 BTUs total across 4 main burners plus a 2-burner extension. The 723-square-inch cooking area, combined with sturdy stainless steel construction and a built-in thermometer, supports heavy-duty outdoor cooking. The burner arrangement enables rapid preheat and reliable heat distribution, while ensuring the ability to prepare large quantities of food in one session.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Infrared Side Burner Grills
- Infrared side burner power and purpose: Look for the BTU rating and whether the infrared side burner is designed for sauces, searing, or quick-side dish work. A dedicated infrared side burner helps maintain main grill performance.
- Main cooking area and layout: Consider total cooking space, primary versus warming rack area, and whether the configuration supports large gatherings or compact backyards.
- Durability and materials: Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates resist rust and retain heat; stainless steel burners withstand the elements. Assess overall cabinet construction for weather resistance.
- Heat distribution and flame tamers: Even heat across the cooking surface prevents hot spots. Flame tamers and well-designed burner arrays contribute to consistent searing and cooking results.
- Maintenance and cleaning: Grease management, grease trays, and easy-to-clean grates reduce upkeep time, enabling quicker transitions between cooks.
- Modular options and accessories: Some grills offer griddle tops or charcoal adapters for versatile cooking styles. Evaluate compatibility with your preferred accessories.
- Thermometer and monitoring: An accurate built-in thermometer helps manage multi-zone cooking, especially for long smokes or multi-dish meals.
- Fuel type and availability: All models here use propane gas; ensure tank size, gas lines, and storage fit your space and safety requirements.
- Warranty and support: Check coverage for burners, grates, and infrared components to gauge long-term reliability.