A propane side burner adds a useful cooking spot beside your grill for boiling corn, warming sauce, or sautéing vegetables. The right choice depends on your fuel setup, available counter space, and whether you need one burner or two. Below, we compare five options, including compact drop-in burners and a larger cabinet-style unit, with a focus on fit, heat output, materials, and practical trade-offs.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Burner setup | Fuel details | Notable fit or feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stanbroil Built-In Single Side Burner | Single, 12,000 BTU | Liquid propane only | Cutout: 11" W x 19" D x 5.9" H |
| Huishenplus 18,000 BTU Side Burner | Single, 18,000 BTU | LP/NG conversion; NG regulator not included | 304 stainless steel; LED-lit knob |
| Hygrill 24,000 BTU Double Side Burner | Double, 24,000 BTU total | Liquid propane | Two 12,000 BTU brass burners |
| KoolMore 32-Inch LP Side Burner with Cabinet | Two independently controlled burners | Liquid propane | Includes a bottom cabinet; burner output and cutout dimensions not specified |
| Livory 17,500 BTU Single Side Burner | Single, 17,500 BTU | LP by default; NG kit included | Push-and-turn ignition; cutout: 19" x 11" x 5.3" |
Our Picks: Best Propane Side Burner For Outdoor Kitchen reviews
Stanbroil Built-In Single Side Burner: A Compact LP-Only Pick
This built-in single burner is a straightforward option for an outdoor kitchen that runs on liquid propane. Its 12,000 BTU cast brass burner is designed for side dishes, sauces, and other tasks that can take up space on your main grill.
The burner and cover use 304 stainless steel, and the cooking grid is removable for cleaning. A removable lid helps shield the burner when it is not in use. The listed cutout is 11 inches wide by 19 inches deep by 5.9 inches high, so check those measurements against your island before buying.
Its main advantage is simplicity: a single LP burner with a clear installation footprint. The trade-off is fuel flexibility. This model is specified for liquid propane only, and its 12,000 BTU output is lower than the other single-burner options here. It may suit routine simmering and side-dish cooking better than shoppers who want the highest listed heat output.
Pros:
- 304 stainless steel body and cover
- 12,000 BTU cast brass burner
- Removable lid and cooking grid
- Listed cutout dimensions make fit planning easier
Cons:
- Designed for liquid propane only
- Lower listed output than the other single-burner models
Verdict: Choose the Stanbroil if you want a compact, LP-only drop-in burner and its specified cutout fits your outdoor kitchen.
Huishenplus 18,000 BTU Burner: Higher Heat and Fuel Conversion
The Huishenplus is a single-burner drop-in unit with a listed output of 18,000 BTU. Its higher output is intended to help heat large pots quickly, making it worth considering if boiling water is a regular part of your outdoor cooking routine.
The burner uses cast iron, while the unit is described as food-grade 304 stainless steel. The package is listed as including a lid, grille, and detachable drip tray. Blue and red LED lighting on the control knob may also make the controls easier to see during evening cooking.
This model is described as convertible between liquid propane and natural gas, but conversion requires changing the LP injectors for NG injectors. The description says that neither an LP nor an NG regulator is included, so check what your installation needs before ordering. The listing also gives overall dimensions of 22 by 14 by 9 inches; verify the required cutout separately before modifying a countertop.
Pros:
- 18,000 BTU single burner
- Described as convertible between LP and natural gas
- Includes a lid, grille, and detachable drip tray
- LED-lit control knob
Cons:
- Regulators are not included, according to the product description
- Conversion requires the correct injectors and a compatible setup
Verdict: Consider the Huishenplus for higher single-burner output and fuel flexibility, but confirm the conversion parts and installation requirements first.
Hygrill Double Side Burner: Two Brass Burners for Parallel Cooking
This built-in double burner provides two 12,000 BTU brass burners for a combined listed output of 24,000 BTU. Two cooking spots can be helpful when you want to boil a pot while heating a second dish, without moving either task to the main grill.
The unit is made from 304 stainless steel and has a stainless steel cover. Its listed overall dimensions are 25 inches deep by 12.5 inches wide by 10 inches high. The specified cutout is 20.75 inches deep by 10.75 inches wide by 8.5 inches high, so compare the cutout—not just the exterior size—with your island plans.
This model is specified for liquid propane. It offers more total burner capacity than the single-burner options, but it also needs a wider and deeper opening. The product description lists compatibility with several sizes of built-in gas grills; that does not replace checking the burner’s own cutout and your kitchen’s fuel setup.
Pros:
- Two 12,000 BTU brass burners
- 24,000 BTU combined listed output
- 304 stainless steel construction and cover
- Cutout dimensions are provided
Cons:
- Requires more counter space than a single burner
- Specified for liquid propane
Verdict: Pick this double burner if you have room for its cutout and want two cooking zones beside your grill.
KoolMore 32-Inch Side Burner with Cabinet: A Larger Kitchen Module
The KoolMore is different from the other picks: it is presented as a 32-inch LP side-burner unit with a bottom cabinet, rather than simply a compact drop-in burner. Its description lists two burners with independent controls, giving you separate cooking adjustments for different tasks.
The unit is described as using 304-grade stainless steel, with smooth surfaces intended to be easier to clean. It is designed for integration into an outdoor kitchen island or countertop. The cabinet may be useful if you are planning a broader kitchen module rather than adding a small burner to an existing counter.
The supplied product details do not state the burners’ BTU output or the cutout dimensions. That makes it harder to compare heat capacity or confirm a precise fit from the available specifications. Before choosing it, check the current product listing for those measurements and confirm that its overall design suits your island layout.
Pros:
- Two independently controlled burners
- 304-grade stainless steel construction
- Includes a bottom cabinet
- Designed for outdoor kitchen integration
Cons:
- BTU output is not specified in the supplied details
- Cutout dimensions are not specified in the supplied details
Verdict: The KoolMore may suit a planned outdoor kitchen build with room for a cabinet module, but confirm the cutout and burner output before committing.
Livory 17,500 BTU Burner: A Feature-Rich Single-Burner Option
The Livory is a single side burner with a listed output of 17,500 BTU. Its product details describe a cast iron burner, push-and-turn ignition, and independent temperature adjustment. The listed features make it a practical middle ground for shoppers who want more output than the 12,000 BTU Stanbroil without moving to a double burner.
The burner has a 304 stainless steel construction and comes with a removable drip tray, lid, and grate. Its stated overall dimensions are 20.4 by 12.6 by 8.6 inches, with a listed cutout of 19 by 11 by 5.3 inches. Measure your island carefully before installation, and confirm that the listed dimensions match the version you plan to buy.
The unit is described as set up for LP by default, with an NG kit included for conversion. Because the product description’s wording about fuel conversion is not fully clear, confirm the kit contents and conversion steps with the seller before connecting it to natural gas. The LED-lit control knob may be useful for evening cooking, but fuel compatibility and a proper fit should come first.
Pros:
- 17,500 BTU single burner
- Push-and-turn ignition system
- Removable lid, grate, and drip tray
- Cutout dimensions and overall dimensions are listed
Cons:
- Confirm NG conversion details before connecting to natural gas
- Single burner offers less cooking space than the double-burner choices
Verdict: Choose the Livory if you want a higher-output single burner with included accessories, provided its cutout and fuel-conversion details work for your setup.
How to Choose a Propane Side Burner for an Outdoor Kitchen
Match the Burner to Your Fuel Supply
Start by confirming that the burner works with your fuel source. Some models in this roundup are specified for liquid propane only, while others are described as convertible to natural gas. Conversion can require different injectors or other parts, and a regulator may not be included. Do not assume a convertible model is ready to connect to either fuel out of the box; check the product instructions and the parts required for your setup.
Measure the Cutout Before You Buy
For a built-in burner, the opening in your countertop is as important as the appliance’s outside dimensions. Compare the listed cutout width, depth, and height with your island plans, and leave room for the installation clearances required by the manufacturer. If the product details do not provide cutout dimensions, ask for them before cutting or ordering around an assumed fit.
Choose One Burner or Two
A single burner takes up less counter space and can handle common side-dish tasks. A double burner gives you two cooking zones, which can make it easier to heat separate foods at once. It also needs a larger opening. Think about how often you cook multiple items outdoors and whether your island has room for the extra surface area.
Compare BTU Output With Your Cooking Needs
BTU figures provide a useful way to compare the listed heat output, but a higher number is not the only factor to consider. A higher-output burner may be helpful for heating a large pot, while controlled lower heat can be useful for sauces and simmering. Also consider whether the figure applies to one burner or to the combined output of multiple burners.
Look at Materials and Included Parts
Several products here specify 304 stainless steel, while burner materials and included accessories vary. A lid, grate, or removable drip tray can make routine use and cleanup more convenient. Check exactly what comes with the model you are considering, and follow the manufacturer’s care guidance to help protect outdoor equipment from the elements.
Consider Whether You Need a Drop-In Burner or a Cabinet Unit
Most options in this list are built-in burners, but the KoolMore is described as a larger unit with a bottom cabinet. A cabinet-style piece may suit a new kitchen layout, while a drop-in model may better match an existing counter opening. Compare the full installation design—not just burner count—before choosing.
Check Ignition and Control Details
Ignition systems and control features differ. The Livory is described as using push-and-turn ignition, and some models have LED-lit knobs. Consider whether those features matter for your cooking routine, but also confirm the burner’s fuel configuration and fit. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for ignition and operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I connect any propane side burner to natural gas?
No. Some burners are specified for liquid propane only. Others are described as convertible, but may need different injectors or a conversion kit. Check the exact model’s instructions and included parts before connecting it to natural gas.
What cutout size should I use?
Use the cutout dimensions given for the specific burner, not its overall dimensions. For example, the Stanbroil lists a cutout of 11 inches wide by 19 inches deep by 5.9 inches high. Dimensions differ by model, so verify the product specifications and required installation clearances before modifying your counter.
Is a double side burner better than a single burner?
It depends on how you cook and how much space you have. A double burner gives you two cooking zones, but usually needs a larger opening. A single burner can be a better fit if you mainly need one extra spot for a pot or pan.
Does a higher BTU rating always mean a better burner?
Not necessarily. A higher listed output can be useful when heating larger pots, but it does not by itself tell you how well a burner handles every task. Consider burner count, fuel compatibility, fit, and whether you need strong heat or more flexible cooking alongside your grill.
What should I do if a product listing does not show cutout dimensions?
Ask the seller or manufacturer for the required cutout size before buying or cutting your counter. Overall product dimensions are not a substitute for the opening needed for installation.
Does a side burner come with a propane tank?
The supplied product details do not state that these burners include a propane tank. Check the individual listing for package contents and plan for a compatible fuel supply and connection for your installation.
Final Recommendation
For a simple LP-only installation with clearly listed cutout dimensions, the Stanbroil is a practical choice. If you want two cooking zones, the Hygrill provides two brass burners and a specified cutout, while the Livory stands out among the single-burner options for its listed 17,500 BTU output and included accessories. For a cabinet-style build, consider the KoolMore only after confirming its missing BTU and cutout details. In every case, measure your island and verify fuel requirements before purchasing.