Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy flavorful outdoor cooking. The Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL is your all-in-one solution for grilling, smoking, air frying, and baking, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings and family cookouts.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step recipe for smoky BBQ ribs using the Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL, along with some handy tips to elevate your summer grilling game.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker
- ✔ Weight: Heavy-duty design for outdoor use
- ✔ Dimensions: Compact enough for patios
- ✔ Warranty: Standard manufacturer coverage
Ninja Woodfire Pro XL Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker with Smart Cook System
- 4-in-1 Cooking Functions: Grill, smoker, air fryer, and oven
- XL Cooking Capacity: 180 sq. in. for large gatherings
- Built-in Thermometer: Real-time temperature monitoring
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Preparing the Ribs and Setting Up the Grill
Start by choosing high-quality pork ribs and removing the thin membrane from the back for better flavor absorption. Season your ribs with a dry rub of your favorite spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar.
Preheat the Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL to the smoking mode at around 225°F. Fill the woodfire box with your preferred wood chips—hickory or applewood work wonderfully for ribs—and let it soak in the smoky aroma.
Place the ribs on the grill grates, ensuring they are not crowded to allow for even smoke circulation and heat distribution.
Smoking and Cooking the Ribs
Close the lid and let the ribs smoke for about 3-4 hours, maintaining a steady temperature. During the process, you can spritz the ribs with apple juice every hour to keep them moist and enhance flavor.
Use the built-in air fryer or oven function to finish the ribs if they need a crisp exterior. For a classic smoky bark, keep the lid closed and avoid opening it often.
Once the ribs are tender and have a deep smoky color, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Tips and Complementary Dishes
Serve the smoked ribs alongside grilled corn on the cob, fresh coleslaw, or baked beans for a true summer feast. The Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL’s versatility allows you to prepare side dishes simultaneously by switching between functions—air frying for crispy veggies or baking for cornbread.
For added flavor, brush the ribs with barbecue sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Remember to keep some extra sauce on the side for dipping!
Finish the meal with refreshing summer drinks like lemonade or iced tea to complement the smoky flavors.
Cleanup and Maintenance
After your cookout, remove the wood chips and clean the grill grates with a brush. The Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL’s non-stick surfaces are easy to wipe down with a damp cloth.
Empty the ash and woodfire box, then store the grill in a shaded area to prolong its lifespan. Regular maintenance ensures your grill remains ready for next summer’s adventures.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker
The Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL combines multiple cooking functions into one portable unit, perfect for outdoor summer cookouts. Its ability to smoke, grill, air fry, and bake makes it a versatile choice for backyard chefs.
Pros:
- 4-in-1 versatility
- Portable and easy to use
- Rich smoky flavor with woodfire box
- Easy to clean surfaces
Cons:
- Learning curve for new users
- Requires some space for setup
- Woodfire box needs soaking
Best for: Home chefs who love outdoor grilling and smoking during summer
Not ideal for: Those looking for a dedicated smoker or grill only
Bottom line: A versatile, all-in-one grill that’s perfect for elevating your summer BBQs.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
