Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy flavorful, smoky dishes with friends and family. The Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL is a versatile outdoor grill that combines woodfire technology with smart features, making it easier than ever to create restaurant-quality barbecue at home.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step recipe for succulent smoked ribs, highlighting how to use the Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL to achieve the perfect summer feast.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Outdoor Gril
- ✔ Weight: approx. 85 lbs
- ✔ Dimensions: Large enough for multiple racks of ribs
- ✔ Material: Durable, weather-resistant exterior
Preparing Your Grill and Ingredients
Start by setting up your Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL in a well-ventilated outdoor space. Ensure it’s connected to the Bluetooth app for easy control. Gather your ingredients: a rack of pork ribs, your favorite dry rub, BBQ sauce, and woodfire chips for added smoky flavor.
Preheat the grill to 225°F using the app, selecting the smoke setting. Fill the woodfire chip tray with your preferred wood chips for an authentic smoky aroma, and set the built-in thermometers to monitor the temperature during cooking.
Cooking the Ribs Step-by-Step
- Remove the membrane from the ribs and apply a generous coat of dry rub on all sides. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Place the ribs on the grill grate, bone side down. Close the lid and set the app to smoke mode at 225°F. Cook for about 3 hours, maintaining a steady temperature, monitored via the built-in thermometers.
- After 3 hours, brush the ribs with BBQ sauce and cook for an additional 30 minutes to set the glaze.
- Use the app to track internal temperature—look for about 190-203°F for tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs.
Tips for Perfect Summer BBQ
- Keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain consistent heat and smoky flavor.
- Use the Bluetooth app to adjust temperature remotely, ensuring your ribs don’t overcook.
- Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing for better juiciness.
- Experiment with different woodfire chips—hickory, apple, or cherry—for unique flavors.
Cleaning and Maintenance
After grilling, turn off the Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL and allow it to cool. Remove ashes and woodchips from the tray, then clean the grates with a grill brush. Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. Proper maintenance ensures your grill stays in top condition for countless summer barbecues.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Outdoor Gril
The Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect XL offers a powerful combination of woodfire technology and smart features, making summer grilling effortless and flavorful. Its 7-in-1 design caters to all your outdoor cooking needs, from smoking to air frying.
Pros:
- Bluetooth and app-controlled for precise cooking
- 7-in-1 versatility including smoker and air fryer
- Built-in thermometers for accurate temperature monitoring
- Large cooking area for family-sized meals
Cons:
- Learning curve for new users unfamiliar with app controls
- Requires regular cleaning of woodfire tray
- Bulkier size may need dedicated storage space
Best for: Summer grilling enthusiasts wanting a multifunctional outdoor cooker
Not ideal for: Casual grillers preferring simple, manual grills
Bottom line: For serious summer BBQs, the Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL delivers smokey flavor and smart control in one robust package.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
