You’re probably tired of wrestling with complicated grill features you’ll never use. Side burners sound convenient until you’re maintaining extra equipment and paying more for capabilities gathering dust. What if you could find a grill that strips away the excess and focuses on what matters—reliable cooking performance? We’ve identified four models that prove simplicity doesn’t mean sacrificing quality.
Quick Overview
- Portable grills with single or dual main burners eliminate unnecessary side burner complications while maintaining efficient cooking performance.
- Models like Cuisinart Chef’s Style and Charbroil 1-Burner offer sufficient BTU output and cooking space for most grilling needs.
- Integrated thermometers and electronic igniters provide precise temperature control without requiring additional burner management or complex features.
- Lightweight designs under 22 lbs with quick tool-free assembly prioritize simplicity and portability over multi-burner functionality.
- High customer ratings above 4.1 stars indicate reliable performance and user satisfaction with straightforward, single-purpose grilling capabilities.
| Cuisinart Chef’s Style Portable Propane Grill (CGG-306) |
| Best Overall | Cooking Surface Area: 275 sq. in. | Fuel Type: Propane | Weight: 22 lbs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill with VersaStand |
| Most Compact | Cooking Surface Area: 150 sq. in. | Fuel Type: Propane | Weight: 18.8 lbs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Charbroil 1-Burner Portable Gas Grill Stainless Steel – 465640214 |
| Best Value | Cooking Surface Area: 200 sq. in. | Fuel Type: Gas (16.4 oz. disposable LP cylinder) | Weight: 21.4 lbs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill – 465133010 |
| Budget-Friendly Pick | Cooking Surface Area: 190 sq. in. | Fuel Type: Liquid propane | Weight: Not specified | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Cuisinart Chef’s Style Portable Propane Grill (CGG-306)
If you’re searching for a grill that won’t weigh down your camping trips or tailgate parties, the Cuisinart Chef’s Style Portable Propane Grill delivers impressive performance in a compact package. Weighing just 22 lbs, this model features two independent 10,000 BTU burners with electronic ignition, giving you precise temperature control across 275 square inches of cooking space. You’ll appreciate the integrated thermometer for monitoring heat levels and the stainless steel grates that distribute warmth evenly. Setup takes under ten minutes without tools, while the locking lid and folding legs make transport effortless. With a 4.4-star rating from thousands of customers and a three-year warranty backing your investment, you’re getting reliable grilling wherever adventure takes you.
- Cooking Surface Area:275 sq. in.
- Fuel Type:Propane
- Weight:22 lbs
- Setup Time:Under 10 minutes, no tools needed
- Ignition Type:Electronic ignition with twist-start feature
- Grate Material:Stainless steel
- Additional Feature:Dual 10,000 BTU burners
- Additional Feature:Integrated thermometer for monitoring
- Additional Feature:Custom heat zones capability
Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas Grill with VersaStand
The Cuisinart Petite Gourmet is your ideal choice if you’re seeking a lightweight, easy-to-transport grill that doesn’t sacrifice cooking capacity. Weighing just 18.8 pounds, this portable powerhouse features a 150 square-inch cooking area and a robust 5,500 BTU burner that handles up to 8 burgers or 6-10 chicken breasts simultaneously. You’ll appreciate the innovative VersaStand—an integrated telescoping base that transforms from tabletop to freestanding grill in seconds. Tool-free assembly gets you cooking in under 10 minutes, while the foldable design with carry handle guarantees effortless transport to your next adventure. Dishwasher-safe grates and a powder-coated steel frame make maintenance hassle-free, and its 4.1-star rating from nearly 4,000 reviews confirms its reliability.
- Cooking Surface Area:150 sq. in.
- Fuel Type:Propane
- Weight:18.8 lbs
- Setup Time:Under 10 minutes, tool-free assembly
- Ignition Type:Twist-to-start ignition
- Grate Material:Porcelain-enameled
- Additional Feature:Telescoping VersaStand base system
- Additional Feature:Dishwasher-safe grates
- Additional Feature:Holds 4+ lbs fish
Charbroil 1-Burner Portable Gas Grill Stainless Steel – 465640214
For adventurers who crave grilling freedom without the weight of bulky equipment, Char-Broil’s 1-burner portable model delivers serious convenience. At just 21.4 pounds, you’ll easily transport this grill to tailgates, campsites, or beaches. The stainless steel frame resists rust while heat-resistant handles keep you safe. You’ll appreciate the 200-square-inch porcelain-coated grate that cleans effortlessly and the piezo electric igniter requiring no batteries. Powered by a disposable 16.4 oz. LP cylinder, it generates 2930.71 watts of heating power. With 4.5 stars from over 500 reviews and ranking #56 in propane grills, you’re investing in proven reliability for compact outdoor cooking.
- Cooking Surface Area:200 sq. in.
- Fuel Type:Gas (16.4 oz. disposable LP cylinder)
- Weight:21.4 lbs
- Setup Time:Not specified
- Ignition Type:Piezo Electric Igniter (no battery needed)
- Grate Material:Porcelain coated
- Additional Feature:Piezo Electric Igniter (battery-free)
- Additional Feature:Convective Cooking System
- Additional Feature:Heat Resistant Handles
Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill – 465133010
Charbroil’s 1-burner portable grill delivers compact convenience for campers, apartment dwellers, and anyone seeking a lightweight grilling solution. You’ll appreciate the 190 square-inch cooking space, which accommodates several burgers or steaks simultaneously. The porcelain-coated grates resist rust while cleaning up effortlessly, and the steel construction with high-temperature finish guarantees durability. Its convective heating system distributes heat evenly across your food. At just 15 inches tall and weighing minimally, you’ll transport it anywhere. Assembly requires minimal effort thanks to included step-by-step instructions. Charbroil backs your investment with a 90-day warranty covering the burner, grate, lid, and other components, giving you confidence in this portable powerhouse.
- Cooking Surface Area:190 sq. in.
- Fuel Type:Liquid propane
- Weight:Not specified
- Setup Time:Minimal assembly required
- Ignition Type:Not specified
- Grate Material:Porcelain coated
- Additional Feature:High-temperature rust-preventative finish
- Additional Feature:Convective cooking technology
- Additional Feature:90-day burner/grate warranty
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gas Grill Without Side Burner
When you’re shopping for a gas grill without a side burner, you’ll want to evaluate several key factors that directly impact your grilling experience. Consider the cooking space and capacity for your typical meals, the heat output and performance needed for your cooking style, portability and weight if you plan to move it frequently, the build quality materials that guarantee durability, and the price relative to the value you’re getting. Balancing these elements will help you find the grill that best matches your needs and budget.
Cooking Space and Capacity
One of the most critical factors in selecting a gas grill without a side burner is understanding your cooking space needs. You’ll want at least 150 square inches to cook multiple burgers or chicken breasts simultaneously. For larger gatherings, opt for 200 square inches or more to handle various foods at once.
Consider BTU output alongside cooking space—higher BTUs enable quicker cooking across larger surfaces. Verify your grill’s capacity can hold sufficient weight, such as over 4 lbs of fish or 6-10 chicken breasts, matching your typical cooking demands.
If you prioritize portability for tailgating or camping, you’ll likely trade some cooking space for convenience with smaller, lightweight models. Balance these considerations based on your specific needs and lifestyle.
Heat Output and Performance
Heat output—measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units)—directly impacts how quickly you’ll sear meat and cook food evenly across your grill. You’ll want to match your grill’s BTU rating to its cooking surface size; larger grills demand higher BTUs for consistent performance.
Look for models with two independent burners, which let you create separate heat zones. This flexibility enables you to grill high-heat items on one side while using indirect heat for delicate foods on the other.
Consider grills with electronic ignition and integrated thermometers for precise heat control. These features help you cook different food types simultaneously without guesswork. If portability matters to you, lighter models still deliver reliable heat distribution, making them perfect for camping or tailgating adventures.
Portability and Weight
If you’re planning to move your grill frequently, weight becomes a crucial factor in your decision. Most portable gas grills weigh between 18.8 and 22 pounds, making them manageable for transport. You’ll want to check folding capabilities too—many models compact to just 9.75 inches in height, maximizing your vehicle or storage space efficiency.
Look for features like carry handles and locking lids that enhance mobility and keep your grill secure during transport. These additions make a real difference when you’re moving between locations.
The real advantage? You can set up your grill in under ten minutes without any tools required. This convenience shines during camping trips and tailgating events, letting you spend less time assembling and more time grilling.
Build Quality Materials
When you’re investing in a gas grill, the materials used in its construction directly impact how long it’ll last and how well it’ll perform. You’ll want to prioritize stainless steel frames and handles, which resist rust and withstand outdoor elements far better than alternatives. Look for porcelain-coated grates that combine rust resistance with easy cleaning for minimal maintenance. High-temperature finishes are equally important, protecting your grill from weather damage and extending its lifespan considerably. While lighter models offer convenient portability, don’t sacrifice solid construction for weight savings. Finally, check the warranty details—a robust materials warranty signals the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability and quality craftsmanship, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
Price and Value
Finding the right balance between cost and performance is essential when selecting a gas grill without a side burner. You’ll want to evaluate the initial investment against long-term value by examining cooking area, heating power, and durability. Higher-priced models typically offer additional features like multiple burners or built-in thermometers that enhance convenience and cooking results. Compare the cooking capacity and BTU output relative to price to identify the best value for your budget. Customer ratings and reviews provide insight into real-world performance, helping you assess whether a grill justifies its price tag. Finally, prioritize grills with warranties, as they signal manufacturer confidence in longevity and reliability, potentially offsetting the higher upfront cost.
