How to Use an Infrared Burner on a Gas Grill: 2026 Guide

The BRANDMAN 6-Burner Propane Gas Grill is a full-featured outdoor cooking station designed for backyard grillers and BBQ enthusiasts who want serious heat and versatility. With six main burners, an infrared sear side burner, and a 2-in-1 griddle, this grill covers everything from smoking burgers to scrambling eggs at a tailgate or patio party.

Cooking performance is the standout here. The 8,500 BTU ceramic infrared side burner gets screaming hot in seconds, perfect for locking in juices on a thick ribeye or creating that steakhouse crust. The diamond-pattern cast iron grates hold heat exceptionally well and leave beautiful sear marks. The sliding warming rack is a smart touch: move it out of the way when you need full access to the main 624 sq. in. grilling area, then slide it back to keep buns or sides warm. Griddle lovers will appreciate the reversible plate—ribbed for searing, smooth for breakfast classics.

Build quality feels robust for the price point. The double-layered lid helps retain heat and stands up to weather decently, though we recommend a cover for long-term outdoor storage. The cabinet-style stand is sturdy and offers plenty of room for a propane tank and tools. Assembly takes a while and you’ll want a helper due to the weight—128.75 pounds—but once set up, it feels solid.

Cleaning is manageable: the cast iron grates and griddle are heavy but the porcelain enamel helps prevent rust and makes scrubbing easier. The grease tray pulls out from the bottom for quick disposal. There’s no built-in lid thermometer, which is a minor oversight for a grill at this price, but you can easily add your own probe.

Realistic limitations? This is not a portable grill—it’s meant for the backyard or patio. Weight and size make it impractical for camping or tailgating unless you have a truck and a lot of help. The lack of a built-in thermometer might annoy some precision cooks. Also, propane tank not included, so factor that into your setup.

Overall, the BRANDMAN 6-Burner is a strong choice for any outdoor cook who wants high heat, multiple cooking surfaces, and durable construction without breaking the bank. It’s best for weekend BBQs, family gatherings, and anyone who enjoys cooking breakfast outdoors. If you’re after a versatile gas grill that can sear, griddle, and handle a crowd, this one delivers.

With six 12,000 BTU main burners plus an 8,500 BTU infrared sear burner, this grill has plenty of firepower for fast grilling and serious searing. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates distribute heat evenly across the 624 sq. in. cooking surface, minimizing hot spots for consistent results. The griddle adds flexibility for low-heat cooking like pancakes or stir-fry. Heat retention is good thanks to the double-layered lid, and the sliding warming rack is a practical upgrade for managing multiple items at once. For low-and-slow smoking you’d want a dedicated smoker, but for everyday grilling and high-heat searing this grill excels.

The cabinet-frame design uses heavy-gauge steel with a stainless steel finish that resists rust when maintained. The double-layered lid helps retain heat and adds stiffness. Grates are porcelain-enameled cast iron—heavy but durable against chipping and rust if kept dry. Wheels are sturdy enough to roll on a flat patio, though the 128-pound weight makes repositioning a two-person job. We recommend a weather cover for year-round outdoor storage. Overall, the build feels appropriate for the price, not flimsy but not commercial-grade either.

Cleaning is straightforward: the porcelain enamel on the grates and griddle makes food release easy and resists sticking when properly oiled. After cooking, let the grates heat up to burn off residue, then brush them clean. The removable grease tray slides out from the bottom for easy disposal. The cabinet has plenty of room for a propane tank and tools, but keep it organized to avoid clutter. No self-cleaning feature, but with regular care this grill should stay in good shape for seasons to come.

The GRILLJOB Ceramic Infrared Searing Burner is a retrofit upgrade designed for backyard grillers who want to add serious searing power to their existing gas grill. Instead of buying a whole new grill, you can replace one of your standard burners with this 15000 BTU infrared unit to get intense, even heat that creates a beautiful crust on steaks, chops, and vegetables while keeping the inside juicy. It's a practical solution for BBQ enthusiasts who already have a good grill but want better performance for high-heat cooking.

This burner fits many 16-inch to 16.25-inch cast iron and cast stainless steel burners commonly found in brands like Blaze, Lion, Premium Grills, and others. The overall length is 16.13 inches, with a burning area of 10.83 by 5.5 inches, so it drops right into the same slot. Installation is straightforward – you remove the old burner, slide this one in, and reconnect the gas line. No special tools or modifications needed. It's a weekend project that can transform your grilling experience.

For backyard cooks who love to entertain, this burner excels at searing. The ceramic infrared technology radiates heat evenly across the surface, reducing hot spots and flare-ups compared to standard tube burners. You get consistent browning without burning. It's ideal for reverse-searing thick steaks, charring vegetables for a smoky side, or giving burgers that crispy exterior. The intense heat also helps retain moisture, so your chicken breasts or pork chops stay tender. If you're a tailgater or patio cook who wants that steakhouse-quality finish, this upgrade delivers.

Build quality is solid for the price: the top is 304 stainless steel, which resists rust and high heat, while the bottom and tube are aluminized steel for added durability. It's designed to withstand the outdoor elements – rain, sun, and grease splatter – though you should still cover your grill when not in use. The burner weighs about 2.9 pounds, so it's not heavy, and it won't add noticeable strain to your grill's frame. There are no wheels or folding legs to worry about since it's a component; the portability depends on your grill itself.

One realistic limitation: this is a single burner replacement. If you have a four-burner grill and want to upgrade all burners to infrared, you'd need to buy multiple units, which can add up. Also, the ceramic surface, while durable in use, can crack if you mishandle it during installation or cleaning. It's not a drop-in for every grill – double-check your burner cavity dimensions and mounting style before purchasing. Some grills have unique mounting tabs or gas orifice placements that may not align perfectly.

Overall, the GRILLJOB Infrared Searing Burner is a smart investment for backyard grillers and BBQ enthusiasts who want better searing without buying a new grill. It's especially useful for those who frequently cook steaks, chops, and vegetables and want that charred exterior and juicy interior. If you're a camper or tailgater using a portable gas grill, check compatibility first – this burner is intended for larger stationary grills. For the price, it's a practical upgrade that elevates your outdoor cooking game.

The GRILLJOB ceramic infrared burner reaches high temperatures quickly and maintains steady heat across the ceramic surface. This reduces the common problem of uneven cooking seen with standard tube burners. The 15000 BTU output delivers searing-level heat that crusts steaks and locks in juices in minutes. For vegetables, the even radiant heat chars without burning the tips. It also handles indirect cooking well – you can sear over the burner, then move food to a cooler zone. Traditional propane burners often create flare-ups from dripping fat; the ceramic surface minimizes that issue by vaporizing drips instantly. This burner doesn't add smoke flavor like a smoker would, but the Maillard reaction from high heat gives you that classic grilled taste.

Installing this burner is designed to be simple. You remove the existing burner – usually held by a cotter pin or screw – slide the GRILLJOB unit into the same mounting bracket, and reconnect the gas supply. The overall length of 16.13 inches and width of 5.5 inches matches many standard burners, but it's important to measure your current burner's overall length and mounting tab location. The burner is intended for 16 to 16.25 inch openings. It works with most brands that use a typical C-shaped or straight tube burner with a gas orifice at one end. If your grill has a unique burner design (e.g., double rows or special clips), you may need an adapter. The package includes only one burner, so consider buying two if you want to replace multiple burners.

The BESTFIRE 3-Burner Tabletop Gas Grill is a portable stainless steel propane grill designed for outdoor cooks who want multi-burner flexibility in a compact tabletop footprint. Delivering 30,000 total BTUs across three independently controlled burners, this model suits RV owners, tailgaters, campers, and apartment or patio cooks who need reliable heat without sacrificing valuable outdoor living space to a bulky freestanding cart.

In terms of everyday grilling performance, the three-burner layout allows you to establish distinct direct and indirect heat zones across the cooking grates. You can sear burgers or steaks over high heat on one side while keeping chicken, sausages, or delicate vegetables on lower heat on the other. The built-in lid thermometer helps track internal cooking temperatures, while the high-domed hood helps retain heat evenly across the cookbox.

Build quality is centered around rust-resistant stainless steel, covering the outer body, hood, and cooking grates. A standout design feature is the viewing glass integrated directly into the lid, which lets you monitor cooking progress without constantly lifting the hood and dumping heat. The package includes three stainless steel grates, three flame tamers, a gas hose, and a push-button ignition system for straightforward, matchless lighting.

Setup and portability are well suited for travel and compact spaces. Measuring 29.72 inches long, 20.87 inches wide, and 14.57 inches high with a weight of 28.66 pounds, the grill is relatively easy to lift, stow, and position on any heat-safe outdoor table. The folding legs tuck away cleanly, and the lockable lid keeps components secure during transport. After cooking, maintenance is straightforward thanks to the slide-out grease tray and durable grates that can be brushed clean once cooled.

There are a few practical trade-offs to keep in mind. The grill is designed exclusively for standard 20-pound propane tanks, meaning you cannot run it on lightweight 1-pound camping bottles without aftermarket modifications not specified by the manufacturer. Additionally, because it is a compact tabletop unit, you will need a separate table or tailgate surface for prep work and tools. The viewing glass also requires routine wipe-downs to prevent grease and smoke buildup from obscuring your view.

For cooks seeking a portable, multi-burner gas grill that connects directly to a standard 20-pound propane tank, the BESTFIRE Tabletop Grill offers strong value. Its solid stainless construction, convenient viewing lid, and independent burner controls make it an adaptable cooking station for backyards, campsites, and tailgate gatherings alike.

The BESTFIRE tabletop grill features three stainless steel burners that produce a combined 30,000 BTUs of heat output. Having three distinct burner controls on a portable unit provides noticeably better temperature versatility than single-burner portable grills. Cooks can easily create a two-zone setup by running outer burners for indirect roasting while leaving the center burner low or off.

Temperature management is supported by a built-in lid thermometer and the innovative glass viewing window. Because lifting a grill lid releases heat and slows down cooking times, being able to glance through the glass helps maintain steady cookbox temperatures. The high-domed hood design also aids in circulating heat evenly around thicker roasts and poultry.

Weighing 28.66 pounds and featuring folding legs along with a locking lid, this grill is built to travel in the back of a truck, SUV, or RV storage compartment. The compact dimensions make it easy to place on picnic tables, tailgate platforms, or outdoor patio counters.

Unlike many portable grills that rely on disposable 1-pound propane canisters, this grill comes equipped with a dedicated gas hose designed exclusively for standard 20-pound propane tanks. This configuration provides extended grilling time without the need to frequently swap empty canisters, making it an excellent match for extended camping trips, RV vacations, and permanent patio setups.

If you're serious about getting a steakhouse-quality crust at home, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 1500°F Infrared Propane Grill is a tool worth considering. This isn't your typical backyard gas grill. It's a portable salamander-style broiler that uses intense top-down infrared heat to sear meat faster and more evenly than almost anything else in its price range. Whether you're a backyard griller, a BBQ enthusiast, or someone who loves cooking at the campsite, this little unit brings serious heat to the table.

The standout feature is the 1500°F infrared burner. It heats up in about 3-5 minutes, and you can feel the blast of heat as soon as you open the lid. That kind of temperature is perfect for locking in moisture and creating a dark, crispy crust on steaks, chops, or fish. The 10-position adjustable rack lets you dial in the distance from the burner, so you can go from a quick sear to a slower cook for things like flatbreads or even a personal pizza using the included pizza stone. It's a versatile setup for a compact grill.

Build quality is solid. The stainless steel body feels sturdy and resists rust well, which is important for outdoor gear that might see rain or humidity. The ignition system works reliably even in windy conditions, and the drip tray slides out for easy cleanup. All the removable parts are dishwasher safe, which is a nice bonus after a messy cookout. Portability is a big plus: it's light enough to toss in the trunk for tailgating or a weekend camping trip, and the tabletop design means you don't need a dedicated cart.

That said, this grill has some limitations. The cooking surface is only 143 square inches, so you're not going to feed a crowd with it. It's more of a finishing tool for 1-2 steaks or a few burgers at a time. The extreme heat also means you need to watch your food closely – it can go from perfectly seared to charred in seconds. And yes, it drinks propane faster than a standard grill, but that's the trade-off for that intense infrared performance.

For outdoor cooks who already have a larger grill or smoker, this is an excellent complement. Use it to sear sous-vide steaks, finish off reverse-seared cuts, or add a quick char to vegetables. Campers and RV owners will appreciate its small footprint and fast heat-up. Tailgaters can use it to impress friends with restaurant-quality food right from the parking lot. It's not a replacement for a full-size grill, but as a specialty searing station, it's hard to beat at this price.

The BIG HORN OUTDOORS grill is all about intense, focused heat. The infrared burner reaches temperatures well over 1000°F, and you can adjust the rack height to control the intensity. For steaks, the top-down heat creates a beautiful crust without overcooking the interior, especially if you reverse-sear first. The included pizza stone works well for flatbreads and personal pizzas, though swapping it for a cooking steel can boost performance even more. Just be ready for some smoke – that's a sign it's working. Cleanup is straightforward with the removable drip tray, and lining it with foil makes it almost effortless.

The Blaze Infrared Searing Burner BLZ-IRN is a specialized replacement burner designed to upgrade the left-side cooking zone on select Blaze gas grills. If you own a Blaze LTE, LTE+, LTE PRO, LBM, or BCM model and wish you had a hotter, more intense heat source for searing steaks, pork chops, or even vegetables, this is a practical and cost-effective solution. It leverages infrared technology to produce consistent, high heat that locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust, something a standard gas burner struggles to achieve.

This burner is best suited for backyard grillers and BBQ enthusiasts who already have a compatible Blaze grill and want to elevate their cooking without buying a whole new unit. It is not intended for campers, tailgaters, or RV owners unless they happen to own one of those specific Blaze grills, but for the home patio cook who frequently entertains, it is a smart upgrade. The infrared heat is especially good for weeknight steaks or weekend burger parties, and it works well with vegetables that benefit from a quick, high-heat char.

In terms of cooking performance, the Blaze infrared burner provides excellent heat consistency across its surface. Once lit, it reaches searing temperatures quickly and maintains them without the hot and cold spots often found in standard burners. The intense heat sears meat rapidly, locking in moisture and creating that signature crust. While it does not produce smoke flavor by itself – that depends on your food and any wood chips you add elsewhere on the grill – it gives you precise temperature control for the searing zone while the other burners handle lower-heat cooking or indirect heat for larger roasts.

Build quality is strong: the burner is made from stainless steel, which resists rust and holds up well to outdoor exposure. The dimensions listed (24 x 30 x 48 inches) likely refer to the shipping box; the actual burner is compact and weighs only 2 pounds. It feels solid and well-machined. Since it is a replacement part, there is no lid, grates, wheels, or folding legs to evaluate – those belong to the grill itself. But the burner's stainless construction is designed for durability and weather resistance within the grill's enclosed system.

Setup is straightforward if you are comfortable working with gas components. You simply remove the existing left-side standard burner and install the infrared one, following the manufacturer's instructions. No special tools are required, but you must ensure the gas line and valve are properly aligned to avoid leaks. If you are not handy, it is wise to have a professional installer do it. Cleanup is minimal – the infrared burner itself does not get greasy quickly because the high heat vaporizes drippings, reducing flare-ups. You will still need to clean the rest of the grill as usual.

One realistic limitation is compatibility: this burner is not for Blaze Professional grills or any non-Blaze brands. It only replaces one burner, so you are not adding extra cooking capacity, just upgrading one zone. If you want to upgrade all burners, you would need to buy multiple units. For the typical home griller who loves searing but wants to keep their existing Blaze grill, this is a worthwhile investment. It gives you a dedicated high-heat zone for those perfect steaks, chops, and veggies, making your backyard BBQ setup more versatile without a huge expense.