Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy outdoor cooking with family and friends. The Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL offers a versatile way to elevate your barbecue game with its 4-in-1 functionality, combining grilling, smoking, air frying, and oven capabilities.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to prepare juicy smoked ribs using the Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL, turning your backyard into a summer BBQ haven with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker
- ✔ Weight: Approximately 40 lbs
- ✔ Dimensions: Compact enough for easy transport
- ✔ Control Type: Digital controls for easy operation
Ninja Woodfire Pro XL Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker with Smart Cook System
- 4-in-1 Functionality: Grill, smoker, air fryer, oven in one
- XL Cooking Capacity: 180 sq. in. for large gatherings
- Real Woodfire Flavor: Uses authentic wood pellets for smoky taste
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Preparing the Ribs for Smoking
Start by selecting a good quality rack of pork ribs. Remove the thin membrane from the back for better smoke penetration and seasoning absorption. Season your ribs generously with a dry rub of your choice—paprika, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder work well for a classic flavor.
Let the seasoned ribs rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor and ensure even cooking.
Setting Up Your Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL
Fill the smoker chamber with wood chunks or chips suitable for smoking, such as hickory or applewood, for a rich smoky flavor. Preheat the grill to a low temperature of around 225°F (107°C). Use the air fry or oven function if needed to maintain a steady temperature, and set the smoker function for the actual smoking process.
Place the ribs on the grill grates, bone side down, ensuring they are not crowded to allow smoke and heat to circulate evenly.
Smoking and Cooking the Ribs
Smoke the ribs for approximately 3-4 hours, maintaining a consistent temperature of 225°F. During this time, keep the lid closed as much as possible to preserve heat and smoke. Baste the ribs with a mop sauce or apple juice every hour for added moisture and flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the ribs are ready when the internal temperature reaches about 190°F (88°C) and the meat is tender enough to pull apart easily.
Finishing and Serving
For a caramelized finish, brush the ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 20 minutes of smoking. You can also increase the heat slightly or use the air fry function to get a crispy exterior if desired.
Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes after removing from the grill, then slice between the bones and serve hot with your favorite summer sides like corn on the cob and coleslaw.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker
The Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL combines grilling, smoking, air frying, and oven functions into one portable unit, making it ideal for summer cooking. Its 4-in-1 design simplifies outdoor meal prep and delivers delicious results with minimal effort.
Pros:
- Versatile 4-in-1 functionality
- Portable and easy to set up
- Great for smoking and grilling
Cons:
- Requires some space for setup
- Learning curve for new users
- Limited capacity for large gatherings
Best for: Home cooks who love outdoor grilling and smoking during summer
Not ideal for: Those needing a large-capacity grill for big parties or commercial use
Bottom line: A versatile outdoor cooking tool perfect for summer BBQs and smoking sessions.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
