Outdoor cooking is evolving with multi-function grills that combine authentic woodfire or high-heat grilling with air frying capabilities. The following selections spotlight outdoor griddle and grill setups that pair robust searing with air frying, roasting, and baking options. Each entry highlights versatility, build quality, and ease of use to help you compare top picks for backyard use.
| Product | Key Benefit | Space |
|---|---|---|
| Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill | Woodfire flavor with 7-in-1 capabilities | XL |
| Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect | App-enabled control with 7-in-1 versatility | XL |
| Ninja OG850 Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL | 4-in-1 grill, smoker, air fryer, bake | XL |
| Char-Broil The Big Easy Outdoor Propane Gas Air Fryer | Infrared cooking for large cuts | Medium |
| Ninja IG651 Indoor Grill (for reference) | Indoor alternative with air frying | Compact |
The products below are selected for outdoor-friendly use with integrated air frying or air-fryer-like capabilities, focusing on models that deliver robust grilling, smoking, and baking functions in a weather-resistant form. Readers should consider how much space they have, the power source, and whether they want built-in thermometer support or app connectivity for precise results.
Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill
The Ninja OG751 combines outdoor grilling with a built-in air fryer capability, delivering 7-in-1 versatility in a weather-resistant design. The master grill function provides char and sear comparable to a full-size propane grill, while the included woodfire technology adds authentic smoky flavors. The foolproof BBQ smoker option uses pellet fuel for a distinctive bark and flavor with a small pellet amount, making it efficient for backyard cooks who want depth without complexity.
Ninja IG651 Foodi Smart XL Pro 7-in-1 Indoor Grill
Although designed for indoor use, the IG651 illustrates Ninja’s approach to multi-functional grilling with a 12” BBQ griddle that interlocks with a high-heat grate for precise searing. It supports open- or closed-hood cooking, enabling cyclonic air flow for fast, even heat and crisping. Its smart features and thermometer provide a reference point for users considering app-enabled controls in outdoor models, highlighting the trend toward tech-assisted grilling.
Ninja OG850 Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL
The OG850 is a 4-in-1 outdoor grill that combines a woodfire grill, BBQ smoker, outdoor air fryer, and bake oven in one compact unit. It uses authentic wood pellets to impart real woodfire flavor, with a generous cooking area that supports entertaining. A built-in thermometer helps track doneness, ensuring consistent results when you’re cooking for a crowd. This model balances outdoor robustness with flexible cooking modes for diverse menus.
Char-Broil The Big Easy Outdoor Propane Gas Air Fryer
The Big Easy uses patented infrared cooking technology to deliver even heat with minimal flare-ups, ideal for large cuts like turkeys and poultry. Its outdoor-friendly design is portable with handles, making it suitable for tailgating, camping, or backyard use. The grill specializes in faster outdoor cooking without sacrificing flavor, and its air frying capability expands meal versatility beyond traditional grilling.
Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Outdoor Grill
The OG951 expands on the 7-in-1 concept with ProConnect app compatibility, enabling remote monitoring and control for two proteins simultaneously. With 180 square inches of cooking space, it remains compact for outdoor setups while supporting woodfire flavor, smoking, air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, and dehydrating. Built-in thermometers provide real-time feedback to optimize doneness without constant supervision.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Outdoor Griddle With Air Fryer
- Power source and weather resistance: Look for models built to withstand outdoor conditions, including weather resistance and reliable electrical components suitable for exposed areas.
- Cooking versatility: Prioritize multi-function units that combine grilling, smoking, air frying, baking, and dehydrating to maximize outdoor cooking options.
- Flavor and fuel: Woodfire or pellet-based systems deliver authentic grilled flavors, while infrared and direct-heat grills offer fast, consistent cooking. Consider maintenance and pellet availability in your area.
- Thermometer and smart features: Built-in thermometers help monitor doneness, and app connectivity provides remote monitoring, cooking charts, and time management for complex recipes.
- Cooking space and capacity: Assess how much cooking area you need for your typical gatherings. Larger families or entertaining groups benefit from XL-capacity models with multiple racks or larger grilling surfaces.
- Portability and setup: If you entertain in different spaces, portability matters. Check weight, wheels, and assembly requirements to ensure convenient transport and setup.
- Maintenance: Look for easy-to-clean grates, nonstick surfaces, and dishwasher-safe components to simplify routine cleanup after outdoor cooking sessions.
- Safety features: Ensure stable stands, proper ventilation, and heat-resistant handles or lids to reduce risk during outdoor use.
When choosing between these options, weigh how often you host gatherings, the types of foods you typically prepare, and whether you value app-based control or straightforward dial-based operation. Outdoors, durability and reliable heat distribution are as important as flavor flexibility, so select a model that aligns with your cooking style and backyard setup.