Summer is the perfect time to gather friends and family around the grill for delicious barbecues and smoky flavors. The Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect XL Grill makes outdoor cooking effortless and fun, thanks to its versatile 7-in-1 design and smart technology.
Follow this practical guide to grilling juicy steaks and smoky ribs, utilizing the grill’s innovative woodfire technology and app control for a seamless summer cookout experience.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Outdoor Gril
- ✔ Fuel Type: Wood pellets
- ✔ Dimensions: XL size for large gatherings
- ✔ Connectivity: Bluetooth

Ninja Woodfire ProConnect Premium XL BBQ Grill, 7-in-1, App Enabled, Blue
- 7-in-1 Cooking Functions: Grill, smoke, air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate
- Large Cooking Capacity: 180 sq inches fits multiple dishes
- Smart App Connectivity: Monitor and control via Ninja ProConnect app
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Preparing Your Ninja Woodfire Pro Grill
Start by ensuring your grill is clean and properly assembled. Fill the woodfire box with your preferred wood pellets for a smoky flavor. Connect the grill to the Ninja app via Bluetooth for easy control and monitoring.
Set the grill to ‘Grill’ mode, select your desired temperature, and preheat for about 10 minutes. Use the two built-in thermometers to keep track of internal temperatures for precision cooking.
Step-by-Step Grilling of Juicy Steaks
- Season your steaks with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Let them rest for 15 minutes.
- Place the steaks on the preheated grill, positioning them evenly on the grates.
- Set the app to monitor the internal temperature, aiming for around 130°F for medium-rare.
- Grill each side for 4-6 minutes, flipping once, until the desired doneness is achieved.
- Remove the steaks and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Adding Smoky Flavor with the Woodfire Technology
The Ninja grill’s woodfire technology infuses your food with authentic smoky flavor. Experiment with different wood pellets like hickory or mesquite for varied tastes.
Adjust the smoke intensity via the app if your model supports it, and keep an eye on the internal temperature to prevent overcooking. The open-air chimney and precise temperature control ensure a rich, smoky result every time.
Tips for a Perfect Summer BBQ
- Use the app to set timers and temperature alerts, freeing you to socialize while cooking.
- Preheat the grill thoroughly to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Let your meat rest after grilling to retain juices and enhance flavor.
- Clean the grates after each use for better flavor and longevity of the grill.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Outdoor Gril

The Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect XL is a top-tier outdoor grill combining woodfire flavor with smart app features. Perfect for hosting summer barbecues with ease and precision.
Pros:
- 7-in-1 functionality for grilling, smoking, and more
- App-enabled for remote control and monitoring
- Built-in thermometers for accurate temperature tracking
- Woodfire technology for authentic smoky flavor
Cons:
- Learning curve for new users unfamiliar with smart grills
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- Potentially higher price point compared to basic grills
Best for: Home cooks wanting versatile outdoor cooking with smart features
Not ideal for: Casual grillers who prefer simple, manual setups
Bottom line: A smart, versatile outdoor grill that elevates summer barbecues with ease.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.