So, I got my hands on the Ninja Woodfire Grill, and I was pretty excited to see what all the fuss was about. You know how it is, new gadget, new possibilities.
The idea of grilling with a hint of woodfire flavor was too tempting to pass up. I mean, who doesn't love a good BBQ with a twist?
Anyway, I decided to give it a go and see if it really lives up to the hype. From unpacking to grilling up some burgers, here's what I found out.
Key Takeaways
- The Ninja Woodfire Grill is easy to set up and has a solid build.
- It handles heat well, making it great for grilling all kinds of food.
- The woodfire feature adds a unique flavor that stands out.
- User-friendly tech makes grilling simple, even for beginners.
- It's a good value for the price compared to other grills.
Discovering the Ninja Woodfire Grill
First Impressions and Unboxing
Unboxing the Ninja Woodfire Grill is like opening a treasure chest of grilling goodness. You get this sleek, compact beast that's ready to transform your outdoor cooking game. Right out of the box, it screams quality with its sturdy build and thoughtful design.
The first thing you'll notice is how well everything is packed, ensuring it arrives in perfect condition. As you lay out the parts, the anticipation builds. You can't help but imagine the smoky, mouth-watering meals you'll be whipping up in no time.
Ninja Woodfire Grill Review
Design and Build Quality
One of the standout features of the Ninja Woodfire is its rugged, weather-resistant exterior. Designed to withstand the elements, this grill is perfect for outdoor use year-round. Whether you keep it on your apartment balcony, patio, or backyard, you won’t have to worry about wear and tear.
The gray and black styling gives it a modern look, while its elevated design makes it easy to use without excessive bending. Despite its compact footprint, the grill feels solid and well-constructed, making it an excellent investment for any grilling enthusiast.
Size and Cooking Capacity
Although compact, the Ninja Woodfire offers ample cooking space. It was larger than expected, and I was pleasantly surprised to see that it could easily fit a whole chicken. This makes it a great option for those who want a balance between space efficiency and cooking capability.
Versatility: Grill, Smoke, and More
This isn’t just a grill—it’s also a smoker and can even be used to cook a Ninja Woodfire pizza. Whether you're grilling steaks, smoking ribs, or experimenting with different dishes, the multiple cooking options set this model apart from traditional grills.
Smoke Functionality and Efficiency
One of the most interesting aspects of the Ninja Woodfire is how it handles smoke production. Initially, I thought the smoke would exit from the top vent, but that’s actually an air intake. Instead, the smoke wafts out from a vent at the upper back of the grill. This thoughtful design allows you to position the grill so that the wind carries smoke away from seating areas.
The smoke box is smaller than expected, holding just about half a cup of pellets. At first, I doubted whether this small amount would produce a deep smoky flavor. However, I was impressed with the efficiency of the smoke pellets and the rich flavor they added to the food. This feature makes it an excellent choice for BBQ lovers who want authentic wood-smoked results without the hassle of managing a traditional smoker.
Setting Up the Ninja Woodfire Grill
Setting up a new grill can often be a frustrating and time-consuming process, but the Ninja Woodfire pleasantly surprised me with its quick and effortless assembly. Unlike many traditional grills and smokers that demand hours of work, fine motor skills, and endless patience, this one was almost ready to go right out of the box.
Hassle-Free Assembly
The Ninja Woodfire required minimal setup—just attaching the handles to the body. The package included a sizable Allen wrench, and with clearly labeled L and R stickers on the handles, assembly was foolproof. In just about two minutes, I had the grill fully assembled.
After that, I simply slid the drip pan and smoke box into place and it was time to plug it in.
Easy Transport and Setup
The large handles on the grill made it easy to carry to my back patio. I placed it on an outdoor table and ran an extension cord to a nearby outlet. Just a quick note—if you’re using an extension cord, be sure to check the safety requirements in the manual to avoid any issues.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Even if you're not the handiest person, setting up the Ninja Woodfire is incredibly straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:
- Unpack all components carefully, checking for any potential Ninja Woodfire grill problems.
- Assemble the grill as per the instructions—no extra tools required.
- Plug it in and get ready to test out your Ninja Woodfire!
Whether you're a seasoned griller or a newbie, the Ninja Woodfire Grill's design and ease of setup make it an appealing option. It's a question many ask: Is the Ninja Woodfire worth it? With its blend of convenience and performance, it's hard to say no.
Ninja Woodfire Grill Review: Features
The Ninja Woodfire Grill is more than just an electric grill—it’s a versatile outdoor cooking powerhouse. It combines innovative technology, multiple cooking modes, and user-friendly design to elevate your grilling game.
Top Features That Stand Out
1. Digital Control Panel
The LED display makes it easy to set and adjust temperatures, ensuring precision cooking every time.
2. Control Knob for Multiple Cooking Modes
A versatile control knob lets you select from seven cooking modes:
- Grill
- Smoke
- Air Crisp
- Bake
- Roast
- Broil
- Dehydrate
3. Woodfire Flavor Technology
A special button allows you to infuse a smoky flavor into any cooking mode (except smoke, where it's already active). This feature enhances the depth of flavor in your dishes.
4. Premium Wood Pellets for Authentic Smoke Flavor
The grill comes with two sample-size bags of 100% premium hardwood pellets:
- Robust Blend – Delivers a rich, smoky flavor.
- All-Purpose Blend – Offers a mild, slightly sweet taste.
5. Integrated Digital Thermometer
The Pro Outdoor Grill features a built-in thermometer, making it easy to monitor temperatures. The pre-set cooking options allow you to cook meats to your preferred doneness without constant supervision.
6. Convenient Accessory Storage
A handy holder tray slides into the front of the grill, keeping accessories safe and within reach.
7. Other Handy Accessories
- Measuring Cup – Prevents overloading the smoker with pellets for optimal efficiency.
- Quick Start Guide – Clear and informative, helping you get started with ease.
Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance
Cleaning up after grilling doesn’t have to be a hassle. Removable grill parts make cleaning quick and easy—no more scrubbing stubborn grease. Plus, some parts are dishwasher-safe, making maintenance a breeze.
Ninja Woodfire Grill Review
Smart Controls & Connectivity
Tech lovers, rejoice! The Ninja Woodfire Grill offers smart features that make cooking even more convenient. With the companion mobile app, you can adjust the heat remotely, eliminating the need to hover over the grill. It’s like having a remote control for your BBQ!
Safety Features for Peace of Mind
- Auto Shut-Off – Prevents overheating, ensuring safe operation.
- Sturdy Legs – Provides a stable base, reducing the risk of tipping over—great for households with kids and pets.
Ninja Woodfire Grill Review
Ninja Woodfire Grill Review: Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Height | 13.31 inches |
| Width | 23.62 inches |
| Depth | 18.58 inches |
| Interior Dimensions | 10.5 x 14.5 inches |
| Weight | ~31 pounds |
| Fuel Source | Electric + Wood Pellets |
| Voltage | 120V – 60Hz |
| Power | 1760 Watts |
| Temperature Range | 105°F to 500°F |
| Cord Length | 4 ft. |
| Price | $369 - $429 |
| Warranty | 1-Year Limited |
Ninja Woodfire Grill: Must-Have Accessories
If you love your Ninja Woodfire Grill, you may want to explore some essential accessories to enhance your outdoor cooking experience.
Grill Stand
For those without a tabletop or designated grilling spot, the portable grill stand is a great option. It features:
- All-weather wheels for easy mobility.
- Multiple utensil hooks for convenient tool storage.
- Folding design for easy storage when not in use.
Grill Stand for Ninja Woodfire Outdoor-Grill
Combo Basket
The combo basket is half the size of the standard air crisp basket, allowing you to cook multiple items at once. Perfect for grilling and air-crisping simultaneously—think burgers and fries cooked together!
Ninja XSKCRSPBKT Woodfire, Combo Crisper Basket
Griddle Plate
A must-have for flat-top cooking, the griddle plate delivers direct, edge-to-edge heat. Ideal for making:
- Fajitas
- Pancakes
- Bacon & eggs
- Smash burgers
Great for campers, RVers, and backyard chefs!
Ninja XSKGRDPLT Woodfire, Outdoor Flat Top Griddle Plate
Grill Cover
If you plan to keep your grill outside, the premium grill cover is a must-have. Made from fade and water-resistant fabric, it also features an elastic drawstring at the bottom to keep it snug—perfect for windy conditions.
Ninja XSKCOVER Premium Outdoor Cover
Grilling Performance and Versatility
Heat Distribution and Control
So, you’ve got your Ninja Woodfire Grill all set up, and now it's time to see what it can do.
One of the coolest things about this grill is how evenly it cooks. The heat distribution is on point, so you won’t end up with one side of your steak being raw while the other is charred to a crisp. This grill gives you control over the heat like a pro chef.
Whether you're searing or slow-cooking, you can dial in the perfect temperature with ease. No more guessing games!
Cooking Different Types of Food
The versatility of this grill is where it shines. You can throw just about anything on it—from juicy burgers and steaks to delicate fish and veggies. It’s like having a whole kitchen outside!
Here’s a quick list of what you can cook:
- Burgers and hot dogs for a classic cookout
- Steaks and chops for a hearty meal
- Fish and seafood for something lighter
- Veggies for a healthy side
- Even pizzas and desserts if you’re feeling adventurous
Experimenting with Woodfire Flavors
Now, let’s talk about flavor. The Ninja Woodfire Grill lets you experiment with different wood chips to add a smoky twist to your meals. Think about using mesquite for a bold flavor or applewood for something a bit sweeter.
The possibilities are endless, and it’s all about finding what tickles your taste buds.
How To Cook On A Ninja Woodfire Grill
Ninja Woodfire Grill Review
The Ninja Woodfire Grill makes grilling easy and efficient, making it my go-to choice over our larger grill and smoker for quick meals and weekend BBQs.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Gather Accessories: Depending on your recipe, you may need the griddle or crisper basket.
Prepare for Smoking (Optional): If smoking, add wood pellets to the smoke box.
Power On: Plug in the grill and select your desired cooking function using the controller dial.
Enhance Flavor: If you want a smoky flavor without full smoking, press the Woodfire Flavor Technology button (automatically engaged in smoking mode).
Set Temperature & Time: Choose your cooking temperature and time; the grill will automatically stop once the time ends.
Start Cooking: When the display reads "Add Food," place your ingredients on the grill.
Monitor & Adjust: Follow your recipe, flipping or basting as needed.
Pro Tip: Recipes may cook faster than expected, so keep an eye on the grill as you near the end of your cook time.
Enjoy Your Meal!
What is cooking with the Woodfire like?
It’s easy and unintimidating! When cooking my brisket flat (which at 4.5 pounds fit perfectly in the smoker), I preheated the smoker on the smoke setting and filled the pellet smoke box with a scoop of pellets.
While it was warming up I took the regular prep steps of trimming, mustard-ing, and seasoning and then plopped it on the preheated grill (which dinged to let us know it was ready) and inserted the temperature probe.
I chose the smoke cooking option at 225 degrees and set the timer. Soon smoke began billowing out the back vent and the timer began to count down.
Because we had a longer smoke time of about four hours to reach a temperature of 190 degrees we did keep an eye on the smoker basket and added more wood pellets as needed (just once). I think with a smaller protein or a shorter cook time one scoop would have been plenty.
The grill does suggest that you flip your meat or other food at the halfway point but our recipe said to keep the lid closed so we skipped the flip. If you do open the lid, the grill will temporarily stop the smokebox action and display a “shut lid” message on the display screen.
When the meat reached the required temperature the grill notified us with a beep and message on the screen. We turned the grill off, wrapped the brisket in foil, and let it rest in the smoker (still turned off) for an hour to lock in the juices.
How Does The Ninja Woodfire Technology Compare?
While the smoker uses wood pellets I do think there is a slight difference between taste when compared to a traditional smoker. While most people won’t notice a missing smoke ring on a brisket or the depth of flavor you can only get with an hours-long traditional smoker – those who are true smoker pros may sense the differences.
Don’t let this deter you from trying out the Woodfire grill, everything I’ve smoked so far has had truly great flavor and tenderness. You really can get a similar experience from this grill as a ‘big smoker’ – without all the hassle.
How to Clean the Ninja Woodfire
Ninja Woodfire Grill Review
I am thrilled with how easy to clean every aspect of this grill is. The grate and air crisper basket are removable and nonstick so a quick hand wash in the sink is a breeze.
Emptying the smokebox ash was a ten-second dump and bump in the trash bin (where I also dumped out the drip pan – but that’s between you and me) and again a quick hand wash. In the future, I will cover the drip pan with a piece of aluminum foil to make cleaning up even easier.
Then, I used a multi-purpose spray and dish towel to wipe down the exterior and called it a day. We could store the grill out on our patio but we opted to set it on a shelf in the garage just to keep it out of the Midwest elements. When you can experience all the seasons in one day it’s best to use caution on outdoor items.
Overall, this required less effort than cleaning many of my other interior and exterior appliances.
Comparing with Other Grills in the Market
Ninja Woodfire vs. Traditional Grills
When you're sizing up the Ninja Woodfire against your classic grills, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First off, the Ninja Woodfire's got that woodfire magic that traditional grills just can't match. It's like bringing a campfire vibe right to your backyard. But hey, traditional grills have their charm too, especially if you're into that classic charcoal or gas grilling experience.
One cool thing about the Ninja is how it handles heat distribution. With traditional grills, you might find some hot and cold spots, but the Ninja keeps things even. So, no more juggling those burgers from one side to the other to avoid the flames!
Price Point and Value for Money
Let's talk dollars and cents. The Ninja Woodfire Grill might seem like an investment, but when you break it down, it offers a lot for the price. Think about it: you're getting a grill that not only cooks but also infuses that smoky flavor you crave. Plus, it's versatile enough to handle everything from steaks to veggies.
Here's a quick look at how it stacks up:
Feature | Ninja Woodfire Grill | Traditional Grills |
|---|---|---|
Heat Distribution | Even | Varies |
Flavor Infusion | Woodfire | Charcoal/Gas |
Price Range | Mid-High | Low-High |
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Now, what are folks saying about the Ninja Woodfire? Well, the buzz is mostly positive In every ninja woodfire pro xl review. People love how easy it is to use and the flavor it brings to the table.
- Ease of Use: Users rave about how straightforward the setup is.
- Flavor: Many can't stop talking about the woodfire taste.
- Versatility: From grilling to smoking, it's a hit.
"The Ninja Woodfire Grill is a game-changer. It's like having a mini BBQ pit right at home."
"Using the Ninja Woodfire Grill has changed how I cook outdoors. It's easy, fun, and the flavors are amazing," says one satisfied user.
But of course, there are some who feel it takes a bit of getting used to, especially if you're transitioning from a traditional grill.
That said, once you've got the hang of it, there's no turning back. It's all about finding what works for you and enjoying the process.
Ninja Woodfire Grill Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|
| Smart Connectivity: Bluetooth and app-enabled for remote control and monitoring. | Pellet Consumption: Requires frequent pellet refills, especially for long smoking sessions. |
| 7-in-1 Functionality: Grills, smokes, air fries, bakes, roasts, dehydrates, and uses woodfire technology. | Size & Portability: Bulky and less portable, making storage and movement harder. |
| Woodfire Technology: Uses wood pellets for authentic smoky flavor. | Price: On the higher end, may not be suitable for budget-conscious buyers. |
| Large Cooking Area: XL size, ideal for cooking large meals for gatherings. | Learning Curve: Takes time to get accustomed to the app and settings. |
| Built-In Thermometers: Two built-in thermometers for precise temperature monitoring. | Electric Power Requirement: Needs a power source, limiting use in areas without electricity. |
| Multiple Cooking Methods: Offers various cooking methods for versatile outdoor cooking. | Size of Pellet Hopper: Pellet hopper may need frequent refills during long cooking sessions. |
| Sturdy Build: Durable and stable for reliable outdoor use. | Temperature Range: May not reach the extreme heat of traditional wood or charcoal grills. |
| App Notifications: Sends alerts for food monitoring, ensuring perfect results. |
Tips and Tricks for Getting the Most Out of Your Grill
Enhancing Flavor with Wood Chips
Using wood chips is a game-changer for grilling. Start by soaking your chips in water for about 30 minutes. This helps them smoke rather than burn.
Then, toss them on the coals or in a smoker box. Experiment with different types of wood chips like hickory, mesquite, or applewood to find your favorite flavor.
Perfecting Your Grilling Techniques
Grilling isn't just about slapping meat on the grill and hoping for the best. To get those perfect grill marks, make sure your grill is preheated.
For a 1.6-pound tri-tip, you'll want to aim for a medium heat. Also, let your meat rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Grilling comes with its own set of challenges. If your grill isn't heating evenly, it might be time to clean the burners.
If you're finding your food sticks to the grill, try oiling the grates before cooking.
And if your grill is smoking too much, check for grease build-up.
Grilling is as much about the process as it is about the result. Don't stress if things don't go perfectly—every mistake is just a step towards mastering the grill.
FAQ's
Can I Use The Ninja Woodfire Grill Indoors?
While its small size and the fact that it plugs in may tempt you to use the Ninja grill indoors, do not. For your safety and health, the Ninja Woodfire is an outdoor-only appliance.
Does the Ninja Woodfire grill run on electricity?
Yes, it’s a fully electric grill with a wood pellet smoker box on the side that you can opt to use or not depending on what you’re making.
Does the Ninja Woodfire use a lot of electricity?
The Ninja Woodfire Grill doesn't use a huge amount of electricity, but it does consume more than a traditional gas grill or charcoal grill because it has multiple heating elements and additional features (like air frying and wood pellet heating).
Typically, it draws around 1,500 watts when cooking, which is similar to other electric cooking appliances like air fryers and toaster ovens.
Can you use any pellets in the Ninja Woodfire grill?
The woodfire owner’s manual does state that you should use Ninja woodfire pellets exclusively. However, I do see several third-party woodchip suppliers offering Woodfire specific pellets.
How long do pellets last in a Ninja Woodfire Grill?
The pellet consumption in the Ninja Woodfire Grill depends on the cooking temperature and time.
On average, you can expect about 30-60 minutes of grilling time per cup of pellets. For longer cooking sessions, such as smoking, you may need to add more pellets.
It's designed to hold up to 1.5 lbs of pellets, which should last a few hours depending on the heat and cooking style.
Can I leave my Ninja Woodfire Grill outside?
Yes, you can leave your Ninja Woodfire Grill outside, but it’s recommended to protect it with a grill cover, especially in rainy or harsh weather conditions.
Final Thoughts On The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill
Overall, I’m genuinely impressed with the Woodfire grill. I started out a bit skeptical but was pleasantly surprised. I think this grill could change your grilling and smoking life if you are in an apartment, an RV aficionado, or simply someone who loves to grill and smoke but doesn’t have a ton of space to do it.
The only things that I wish were different is that more parts were dishwasher safe, but they do hand wash so easily so I really can’t really complain) and a Bluetooth or wifi feature for the built-in thermometer would be a fantastic addition.
I see our family using this grill more and more and in more ways. I’m looking forward to trying out Pizza in Your Pellet Smoker, and even just tossing some Frozen Burgers on the Ninja outdoor grill. I honestly would (and have!) recommended this grill to our friends based on the ease of use, its quality build, and the many features it can do and do well.
