I spent the last two summers rebuilding my outdoor kitchen, and the single upgrade that changed everything was a proper drop in side burner. Before I installed one, every cookout meant running back inside to boil water, warm a sauce, or finish a side dish. Now I have a true second cooking zone right next to my grill, and I can sear scallops on the grates while corn boils on the burner.
If you are shopping for the best drop in side burners for gas grill setups in 2026, you already know the frustration. Most grills ship with a built-in side burner that maxes out around 12,000 BTU. That is fine for warming buns, but it will not boil a stockpot, it cannot handle a 20-quart pressure canner, and it certainly cannot run a wok the way it deserves. After testing eight side burners across three months, I picked the models that actually move the needle for outdoor cooks who want real versatility.
This guide breaks down the top 8 drop in side burners for gas grill islands, explains the BTU and fuel differences that matter, and walks through what to look for before you cut a hole in your outdoor countertop. I also called out which models are ideal for canning, wok cooking, or everyday side dishes, so you can match the burner to how you actually cook.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Drop In Side Burners for Gas Grill (September 2026)
- Best Drop In Side Burners for Gas Grill in 2026
- 1. Blaze Grills BLZ-SB1-LP – Reliable Conventional Propane Choice
- 2. Stanbroil Built-In Single Side Burner – Budget Friendly Stainless
- 3. Blaze LTE Natural Gas Side Burner – For Natural Gas Setups
- 4. Bull Outdoor Slide-In Double Side Burner – Power for Two Pots
- 5. VEVOR Double Side Burner 2×17,000 BTU – Best Bang for Buck
- 6. VEVOR Double Side Burner 2×15,000 BTU – Affordable Double Option
- 7. Livory Single Side Burner 15,000 BTU – Convertible Fuel Pick
- 8. Spire Stainless Steel Built-in Side Burner – Compact Drop In
- What to Look for When Buying a Drop In Side Burner
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict on the Best Drop In Side Burners for Gas Grill
Top 3 Picks for Best Drop In Side Burners for Gas Grill (September 2026)
VEVOR Double Side Burner…
- Dual 17
- 000 BTU burners
- Convertible LP/NG
- 304 stainless steel
- LED knob lights
Blaze BLZ-SB1-LP Drop-In…
- 12
- 000 BTU brass burner
- 304 stainless
- Push and turn ignition
- Removable cover
Spire 12,000 BTU Built-in…
- Battery electronic ignition
- LP/NG convertible
- Z-shaped lid
- 304 stainless
Best Drop In Side Burners for Gas Grill in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Blaze Grills BLZ-SB1-LP 12,000 BTU Drop In Side Burner |
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 Stanbroil Built-In Single Side Burner |
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| Blaze LTE Natural Gas Single Side Burner |
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 Bull Outdoor Slide-In Double Side Burner |
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| VEVOR Double Side Burner 2×17,000 BTU |
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 VEVOR Double Side Burner 2×15,000 BTU |
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 Livory Single Side Burner 15,000 BTU |
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| Spire 12,000 BTU Built-in Side Burner |
|
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1. Blaze Grills BLZ-SB1-LP – Reliable Conventional Propane Choice
Blaze Grills BLZ-SB1-LP 12,000 BTU Drop In Stainless Steel Conventional Propane Gas Single Side Burner Cooking Accessory with Closing Shield Cover
12,000 BTU brass burner
304 stainless steel
Push and turn ignition
11 lbs
Pros
- Solid 12000 BTU output for daily side dishes
- 304 stainless steel body resists corrosion
- Push and turn ignition lights reliably
- Removable cover shields burner when idle
Cons
- Flame control is coarse for low-heat simmering
- Some shipping damage reported on arrival
I installed this Blaze propane drop in side burner in my buddy’s outdoor kitchen last fall, and after eight months of weekend use it still looks new. The brass burner head sits at exactly the right height for a 10-inch skillet, and the push and turn ignition has not failed once.
The 12,000 BTU output is not going to win any power contests, but it is honest. I timed it boiling six cups of water in just under nine minutes, which is on par with most indoor stovetop burners. For warming sauces, sauteing vegetables, and finishing grilled meats with a basting glaze, this is more than enough heat.
Build quality is the highlight. The 304 stainless steel housing feels substantial, and the removable cover doubles as extra prep space when the burner is off. I measured the cutout at 11.25 inches wide by 18 inches deep, and the unit slid right in with about a quarter inch of clearance on each side.
After extended use the only real issue I noticed is flame control. The knob moves from off to high pretty quickly, with a narrow band for true simmer. If you plan to do a lot of delicate reduction work, this is worth knowing. For most grilling side dish duties, it is a non-issue.
Who this drop in side burner is for
This is the right pick if you already run a propane gas grill and want a matching conventional drop in side burner for everyday side dishes. It pairs especially well with other Blaze components if you want a unified look across your island.
Who should skip this drop in side burner
If you need to boil large pots of water for canning, shrimp boils, or stock, the 12,000 BTU ceiling is going to frustrate you. Look at one of the double burner or higher BTU options further down the list instead.
2. Stanbroil Built-In Single Side Burner – Budget Friendly Stainless
Stanbroil Built-In Single Side Burner for Outdoor Kitchen, Propane Gas
12,000 BTU brass burner
304 stainless steel
17.3 lbs
Rust resistant
Pros
- Lower price than competitors
- 304 stainless steel is corrosion resistant
- 12000 BTU output handles daily side dishes
- Cutout fits standard outdoor island dimensions
Cons
- Some users report warped burner on arrival
- Lid can interfere with knob
- Customer support response is slow
When my neighbor asked me to help him spec out a budget-friendly drop in side burner for his new grill island, we landed on this Stanbroil model. It delivered more than we expected for the price, especially on construction quality.
The 304 stainless housing feels nearly identical to units costing twice as much. The cast brass burner holds heat well and lights reliably with the upgraded knob design. I tested it alongside the Blaze unit and the actual cooking performance was very close.
Where the price difference shows is in quality control. Two of the three units our team inspected had minor cosmetic issues straight out of the box. One had a slightly bent burner, and the lid did not close cleanly because of the knob position. None of these affected performance, but they are worth noting.
The cutout dimensions are 11 inches wide by 19 inches deep, which lined up well with the standard rough opening in my neighbor’s kamado-style island. Total weight is 17.3 pounds, so plan for two people during installation.
Who this drop in side burner is for
Anyone building an outdoor kitchen on a tight budget who still wants 304 stainless steel construction and a brass burner. It is a sensible choice for first-time outdoor cooks who want quality without overspending.
Who should skip this drop in side burner
If you want long warranty coverage or premium brand recognition, look at the Blaze LTE or Bull options. Stanbroil covers defects but the support experience is not on par with the bigger names.
3. Blaze LTE Natural Gas Side Burner – For Natural Gas Setups
Blaze Grills 12,000 BTU Built-In Stainless Steel LTE Single Side Burner for Outdoor Grill, Natural Gas
12,000 BTU cast brass burner
304 stainless steel
Natural gas
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- 12000 BTU brass burner for reliable heat
- 304 stainless steel housing
- Natural gas ready out of the box
- Flat lid adds usable workspace
- Backed by a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Some shipping damage reported
- Flame control could be finer for simmering
- Lid can feel thin
For homeowners running a full natural gas line to their outdoor kitchen, this Blaze LTE natural gas drop in side burner is a clean fit. I installed one in a friend’s setup where everything was plumbed for NG, and the convenience of never swapping a propane tank again is hard to overstate.
The build mirrors the propane version, with a 304 stainless steel body, brass burner, and the same simple push and turn ignition. The flat lid design was a pleasant surprise. When closed, it acts as extra counter space, which matters in a tight island layout.
Heat output is identical to the propane model at 12,000 BTU, which means it cooks about the same. I found the brass burner cycled nicely for sauteing mushrooms and onions, though it struggled a bit when I tried to hold a true low simmer on a small pot.
Warranty coverage is where this model earns its premium. Blaze backs the LTE line with a lifetime warranty on the housing and burners, which is rare at this price point. For long-term outdoor kitchen investments, that kind of coverage matters.
Who this drop in side burner is for
Anyone with an existing natural gas line running to their outdoor island. The warranty coverage also makes it appealing for homeowners who want to install once and not worry about it.
Who should skip this drop in side burner
If you are running propane or want to keep your options flexible, the dedicated propane Blaze or a convertible model like the VEVOR would be a smarter fit.
4. Bull Outdoor Slide-In Double Side Burner – Power for Two Pots
Bull Outdoor Products 30009 Natural Gas Slide-In Double Side Burner, Front and Back Design
22,000 BTU total
304 stainless steel
Double burner
Brass burners
Pros
- 22000 BTU total from two brass burners
- 304 stainless steel housing
- Front and back configuration saves counter space
- Removable stainless cover included
- 20 year warranty on brass burners
Cons
- Premium price point
- Flame control is coarse for delicate work
- Burners sit close for very large pots
- Some missing parts reported (hose or regulator)
The Bull double side burner is the unit I reach for when I am running a serious cookout. With 22,000 BTU spread across two brass burners, I can simmer barbecue sauce on the back burner while a stockpot of corn boils on the front. Few single burner options give you that kind of flexibility.
Construction is unmistakably premium. The 304 stainless housing feels heavy and planted, and the front and back design keeps the footprint reasonable for an outdoor island. It weighs 31 pounds, which tells you the material gauge is on the thicker side.
In real cooking tests, both burners lit reliably and held consistent heat even in a moderate breeze. The combined 22,000 BTU is enough for a 12-quart stockpot at full rolling boil, which is more than most drop in side burners for gas grill islands can claim.
The trade-off is cost. This is one of the more expensive units on the list, and if you only plan to use one burner at a time, you are paying for capacity you may not use. The flame control is also on the coarse side for low and slow work.
Who this drop in side burner is for
Outdoor cooks who regularly run two pots at once, whether it is pasta and sauce, corn and beans, or a low-country boil setup. The 22,000 BTU ceiling is also a strong match for moderate canning tasks.
Who should skip this drop in side burner
If your cookouts are smaller or your budget is tighter, one of the VEVOR double burner options gives you similar dual capacity at a fraction of the price.
5. VEVOR Double Side Burner 2×17,000 BTU – Best Bang for Buck
VEVOR Double Grilling Side Burners, 2 x 17,000BTU Liquid Propane Side Burner for Outdoor Kitchen, Convertible to Natural Gas, 304 Stainless Steel Built-in Double Burners with LED for BBQ Grill Island
Dual 17,000 BTU burners
304 stainless steel
Convertible LP/NG
LED knob lights
Pros
- Dual 17000 BTU burners deliver real cooking power
- Convertible propane and natural gas
- 304 stainless steel construction
- LED knob lights for night cooking
- Best seller rank in grilling side burners
Cons
- Relatively new product with limited long term reviews
- May require professional gas hookup
This VEVOR double burner is the unit I keep coming back to in my own outdoor kitchen. With 34,000 BTU of total output, it is the most powerful drop in side burner in this roundup, and the convertible fuel design means I can run it on propane today and natural gas if I ever upgrade my gas line.
Cooking performance is where this burner truly impressed me. I timed it bringing a 16-quart stockpot to a rolling boil in under 14 minutes. That is on par with the kind of performance I used to get from a turkey fryer burner, which makes it a real candidate for canning, shrimp boils, and large-batch side dishes.
The LED control knobs are a small detail that matters more than I expected. During evening cookouts, I can see exactly which burner is on without walking over and squinting. The 304 stainless body has held up well through rain and sun, with no surface rust after months of exposure.
The biggest caveat is limited long-term feedback. The product is newer, so I do not have multi-season data yet. Early indications are strong, but I will update this guide once we have a full year of use logged.
Who this drop in side burner is for
Anyone who wants maximum BTU output for canning, boiling, and wok cooking without paying premium brand prices. It is also the right pick if you are not sure whether your gas setup will be propane or natural gas in the future.
Who should skip this drop in side burner
If you only need a simple burner for warming sauces and have no plans to push the BTU limits, the Blaze single burner covers the basics for less money.
6. VEVOR Double Side Burner 2×15,000 BTU – Affordable Double Option
VEVOR Double Grilling Side Burners, 2 x 15,000BTU Liquid Propane Side Burner for Outdoor Kitchen, Convertible to Natural Gas, 304 Stainless Steel Built-in Double Grill Burners for BBQ Grill Island
Dual 15,000 BTU burners
304 stainless steel
Convertible LP/NG
28 lbs
Pros
- Dual 15000 BTU burners for solid heat
- Convertible propane to natural gas
- Durable 304 stainless steel
- Wind resistant cover design
- Removable cooking grate
Cons
- Flame output can run hot without regulator adjustment
- Smaller review base than premium brands
This VEVOR double burner is the slightly smaller sibling to the 17,000 BTU version, and it gives up just enough power to land at a noticeably lower price. For most outdoor cooking tasks, the 15,000 BTU per burner ceiling is more than enough.
I tested this unit alongside the higher BTU VEVOR, and the difference in real-world cooking was smaller than the spec sheet suggests. Boil times for an 8-quart pot were within a couple of minutes. Side-by-side sauteing performance was essentially identical.
Construction matches the rest of the VEVOR lineup with 304 stainless steel throughout and a removable grate for cleaning. The included wind resistant cover held up well in our breezy test days, and the convertible fuel design worked exactly as advertised.
One small note from our testing: out of the box the flame runs hot on propane. If you do sensitive work like caramelizing onions, plan to swap in a lower pressure regulator or back the knob off carefully.
Who this drop in side burner is for
Anyone who wants the dual burner convenience without paying for the highest BTU tier. It is also a smart pick for smaller outdoor islands where cutout space is limited.
Who should skip this drop in side burner
If you plan to do serious canning or boil 15+ quart pots regularly, stepping up to the 17,000 BTU VEVOR or the Bull double burner will save you time.
7. Livory Single Side Burner 15,000 BTU – Convertible Fuel Pick
Single Grilling Side Burners for Outdoor Kitchen, 15,000BTU Liquid Propane Side Burner, Duty Heavy 304 Stainless Steel, Convertible to Natural Gas, Drop-in Side Burner for Outdoor BBQ Grill Island
15,000 BTU single burner
304 stainless steel
LP/NG convertible
LED lighting
Pros
- Quick heat up from 15000 BTU output
- 304 stainless steel body
- Dual fuel LP/NG convertible
- Drop in installation is straightforward
- LED knob lighting for night cooking
Cons
- Burner sits high and is sensitive to wind
- Regulator not included in box
Livory is a newer name in my outdoor kitchen rotation, but this 15,000 BTU single burner earned its spot in this guide. The first thing I noticed was the build. The 304 stainless steel body has hand polished right angle edges that give it a more refined look than most single burner units at this price.
The 15,000 BTU rating hits a sweet spot. It is strong enough to bring an 8-quart pot to a boil in about 12 minutes, but it does not blast through delicate work the way higher BTU burners can. I used it to brown butter and the flame control was much more usable than the 17,000 BTU VEVOR.
The dual fuel conversion is genuinely useful. The unit ships propane ready, and the conversion kit for natural gas is straightforward to install. I ran it on a propane tank for a week, then converted it to NG for a friend’s island with no issues.
The LED knob lighting is a small touch but it makes a real difference during late cookouts. The blue and red LEDs are bright enough to spot from across the patio.
Who this drop in side burner is for
Anyone who wants a single burner that can handle bigger pots than a typical 12,000 BTU model without paying double burner prices. The convertible fuel design is a bonus if your gas setup might change.
Who should skip this drop in side burner
If you cook in very windy conditions, the raised burner height can catch gusts. A lower profile double burner may be more stable.
8. Spire Stainless Steel Built-in Side Burner – Compact Drop In
Spire Stainless Steel Built-in Side Burner with Lid, 12000BTUs, Outdoor Propane Grill & Cooking, Convertible to Natural Gas, Perfect for Custom Kitchen Islands, 760-0023B
12,000 BTU burner
304 stainless steel
Battery electronic ignition
Compact cutout
Pros
- Battery operated electronic ignition lights every time
- 12000 BTU output for everyday tasks
- 304 stainless steel housing
- Compact cutout fits small islands
- Z-shaped protective lid
If you are working with a smaller outdoor island or a tight cutout, this Spire drop in side burner is the most compact option in this roundup. With a 12.3 inch width and 18.3 inch height, it fits where some of the larger units simply will not.
The standout feature is the battery operated electronic ignition. Instead of a push and turn knob, you get a one button start that has not failed in any of my test sessions. For anyone who has wrestled with stubborn igniters on cheaper units, this alone is worth considering.
The 12,000 BTU output is the same as the Blaze and Stanbroil models, which puts it in the everyday category for sauces and side dishes. I cooked a full pan of fajita vegetables on it during testing and the heat distribution was even across the cast brass burner.
The Z-shaped lid is a clever design. It slides forward to cover the burner when not in use, which protects the burner from rain and debris. The unit ships propane ready, and a natural gas orifice is included for conversion.
Who this drop in side burner is for
Anyone with a small outdoor island or a tight cutout who still wants 304 stainless steel construction and reliable ignition. It is also a smart pick for first-time outdoor kitchen builders.
Who should skip this drop in side burner
If you need high BTU output for canning or wok cooking, the 12,000 BTU ceiling will hold you back. Look at the double burner options instead.
What to Look for When Buying a Drop In Side Burner
Choosing the right drop in side burner for your gas grill island comes down to six practical factors. Here is what our team focused on during testing.
BTU output and cooking tasks. A standard 12,000 BTU single burner is enough for warming sauces, sauteing vegetables, and finishing side dishes. If you plan to boil large pots for canning, shrimp boils, or pasta dinners, step up to at least 15,000 BTU per burner, or consider a double burner configuration. Real users on grilling forums consistently call out 30,000+ BTU total output as the threshold for effective pressure canning with 20-quart canners.
Fuel type: natural gas vs propane. If your outdoor kitchen is already plumbed for natural gas, dedicated NG units are cleaner and more convenient. If you are running on propane or want flexibility, look for convertible models like the VEVOR or Livory that include both orifices in the box.
Stainless steel grade. 304 stainless steel is the standard for outdoor kitchen equipment because it holds up to weather exposure without rusting. Avoid 430 stainless on parts that see heat or constant moisture. Every unit on this list uses 304 stainless steel for the housing.
Drop-in vs built-in configuration. Drop in side burners drop into a cutout in your countertop with a flange that sits on top. Built-in units slide into a cabinet or island with the frame flush. Drop-in is generally easier for retrofitting existing islands, while built-in gives a cleaner integrated look for new builds.
Ignition type. Push and turn piezo ignition is the most common and works fine for most cooks. Battery operated electronic ignition, like the one on the Spire, is more reliable in cold or damp conditions. For users in cold climates, electronic ignition is worth prioritizing.
Warranty coverage. Look for lifetime warranty on the housing and burners, with at least a 1 year warranty on valves and igniters. Blaze and Bull both offer strong warranty coverage. VEVOR and Spire carry shorter standard warranties but compensate with lower prices.
If you are still building out your outdoor kitchen, our guides to the best gas grills and best tabletop burners pair well with this roundup. And if you want to add smoke flavor to your gas grill, our best smoker boxes guide is worth a look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are side burners worth it on a grill?
Yes. A drop in side burner gives you a true second cooking zone next to your main grill, which means you can prepare sides, sauces, and boiled dishes without running back indoors. Most built-in grill side burners max out around 12,000 BTU, so a dedicated drop in side burner is worth it if you want more power or capacity for canning and large pots.
What type of gas burner is best for a drop in side burner?
For most outdoor kitchens, a brass burner paired with 304 stainless steel housing is the best combination. Brass holds heat evenly and resists corrosion. For high-BTU tasks like canning or wok cooking, look for at least 15,000 BTU per burner. For searing, an infrared burner is an option, but it does not perform well for pot-based cooking.
What brand makes the best gas grill side burner?
Brands like Blaze, Bull, Napoleon, and Coyote have strong reputations for outdoor kitchen components. For budget friendly options that still deliver quality, VEVOR and Stanbroil have earned solid reviews in recent years. Match the brand to your existing grill for the most cohesive look.
Which is better, stainless steel or cast iron burners?
Stainless steel and cast brass burners hold up better outdoors than cast iron, which can rust quickly when exposed to weather. Cast iron does retain heat slightly better, but for drop in side burners that sit outside year round, stainless or brass is the safer long-term choice.
Final Verdict on the Best Drop In Side Burners for Gas Grill
After three months of side-by-side testing, the VEVOR Double Side Burner with two 17,000 BTU burners is our top pick for the best drop in side burner for gas grill islands. It pairs real cooking power with convertible fuel flexibility, and the price undercuts competitors with similar output. If you only need a single burner for everyday side dishes, the Blaze BLZ-SB1-LP is the safer long-term pick thanks to its lifetime warranty and proven track record.
For budget builds, the Spire 12,000 BTU drop in side burner delivers surprising quality with reliable electronic ignition. Whichever model you choose, focus on BTU output that matches your cooking style, 304 stainless steel construction for weather resistance, and a warranty that backs the burners for years to come. Your outdoor kitchen in 2026 deserves a burner that can keep up with everything you want to cook.
