A compact and easy to assemble grill cart to support a collapsible grill cart that includes a base portion, to which side frames can be coupled, and that permits the grill cart to be stored in a compact, folded configuration. The side frames of the cart can be expanded or unfolded to provide a stable structure that can support a cooking unit, such as a grill, grill insert, or firebox. Such a collapsible grill cart can also include doors that provide enclosed storage space within the expanded cart and wheels to facilitate transportation.