Summer is the perfect time to fire up your outdoor grill and enjoy flavorful, smoky dishes with friends and family. The Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL offers a versatile, high-tech solution to elevate your barbecue game this season.
With its 7-in-1 functionality, Bluetooth connectivity, and woodfire technology, this grill makes grilling, smoking, and air frying effortless and delicious. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering smoked ribs that will impress everyone at your next summer gathering.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Outdoor Gril
- ✔ Color Options: Black/Blue
- ✔ App Compatibility: iOS and Android
- ✔ Dimensions: XX x XX x XX inches

Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Outdoor Grill & Smoker, Bluetooth, App Enabled, 7-in-1 Master Grill, BBQ Smoker, Outdoor Air Fryer, Woodfire Technology, 2 Built-In Thermometers, Black/Blue
- 7-in-1 Functionality: Grill, smoke, air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate
- Large Cooking Capacity: 180 sq inches, fits multiple large items
- Smart App Control: Monitor and control via Ninja ProConnect app
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Preparing the Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL for Smoking
Start by ensuring your grill is clean and properly assembled. Fill the woodfire hopper with your preferred wood pellets for a rich, smoky flavor. Use the Bluetooth app to connect your grill and select the smoking mode. Preheat the grill to around 225°F (107°C), checking the two built-in thermometers for accurate temperature readings.
Set up your rib racks inside the grill, making sure there’s enough space for smoke circulation. Season your ribs with a dry rub of your choice for enhanced flavor, then place them on the grill racks.
Step-by-Step: Smoking Ribs on the Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL
- Load the ribs onto the grill racks, close the lid, and start the smoking process via the app.
- Maintain the temperature around 225°F (107°C) for 3-4 hours, checking periodically with the built-in thermometers or app alerts.
- Optionally, spritz the ribs with apple juice every hour to keep them moist and enhance smoke penetration.
- In the last hour, increase the temperature slightly or wrap the ribs in foil for a tender finish, if desired.
- Once done, use the app to monitor internal temperature — aim for about 190°F (88°C) for fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
- Remove the ribs, let them rest for 10 minutes, then serve and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Summer BBQs with Your Ninja Grill
Always preheat your grill for even cooking. Use the app’s temperature control features for precise results. Incorporate woodfire pellets for authentic smoky flavor that elevates your dishes.
Remember to keep the lid closed as much as possible during smoking to maintain consistent heat and smoke levels. Experiment with different wood pellet flavors to customize your barbecue experience. Lastly, clean your grill after each use to keep it in top condition for many summer cookouts to come.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Outdoor Gril

The Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect XL is a versatile and high-tech outdoor grill that makes smoking, grilling, and air frying easy. Perfect for summer cookouts, it offers precise control with Bluetooth app connectivity and woodfire technology for authentic smoky flavors.
Pros:
- 7-in-1 multi-functionality
- Bluetooth app control for convenience
- Built-in thermometers for accurate cooking
- Woodfire technology for rich smoky flavor
Cons:
- Requires some setup time
- Learning curve with app features
- Bulkier size may need ample storage space
Best for: Grill enthusiasts who want a versatile, tech-enabled outdoor cooking experience
Not ideal for: Casual grillers preferring simple, traditional setups
Bottom line: A premium, versatile grill perfect for elevating your summer barbecues with smoky flavor and smart control.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.