Ah, BBQ season. The smell of burgers in the air, the sun shining just right — it's grilling time. Whether you're a weekend warrior or just here for the ribs, picking the right BBQ matters. We’ve done the meat-flipping for you with this ultimate BBQ guide, packed with sizzling picks from Heavins.ie.
Types of BBQ Grills: Which One is Right for You?
| Feature | Gas BBQ | Charcoal BBQ | Electric BBQ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat-up Time | Fast | Moderate | Fast |
| Flavor | Moderate Smokiness | Rich Smoky Flavor | Depends on model (Ninja = woodfire smoky!) |
| Clean-up | Moderate | Messy | Easy |
| Fuel Type | Propane/Gas | Charcoal | Electricity/Wood Pellets (Ninja) |
| Cost Range | Medium to High | Low to Medium | Medium |
Other Factors to Consider When Buying a BBQ Grill
Choosing the type of BBQ (gas, charcoal, electric) is only the beginning. The perfect grill depends just as much on your lifestyle, available space, and how many people you’re feeding. Here’s how to zero in on what matters most to you:
For 2 People or Couples
You don’t need a behemoth 4-burner grill if you’re cooking for just two. Smaller grills heat up faster, take up less space, and are easier to clean—perfect for balconies or compact patios.
What to look for:
- 1–2 burners or compact design
- Quick heat-up time
- Easy storage
Top Picks:
| Feature | Outback Omega 200 | Charcoal Kettle BBQ 17" | Ninja Woodfire OG701UK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Gas | Charcoal | Electric + Wood Pellets |
| Cooking Area | 50 x 36 cm | 41cm Diameter | 35 x 45 cm |
| Smoking Function | ❌ | ✅Indirect heat only | ✅ Built-in smoker with wood pellets |
| Heat-Up Time | Fast (approx. 10 mins) | Slow (15–20 mins) | Very fast (preheats in minutes) |
| Temperature Control | Dial-controlled burners | Manual (vents & charcoal) | Digital precision control |
| Assembly Required | ✅ (moderate assembly) | ✅Minimal assembly | ❌ (plug & cook) |
For Families & Entertaining
When you're cooking for a crowd (or a hungry family), size and features matter. You’ll want plenty of cooking surface, consistent heat, and maybe even some bells and whistles like side burners or smokers.
What to look for:
- 3+ burners or a large grilling surface
- Side tables or warming racks
- Versatility (e.g., smoking, air frying, etc.)
Top Picks:
| Feature | Outback Jupiter 4 Burner Gas BBQ | Sahara Performer 3 Burner Gas BBQ | Ninja Woodfire Pro XL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Electric + Wood Pellets |
| Cooking Area | 64 x 42 cm | 49 x 52 cm | 35 x 45 cm |
| Smoking Function | Optional with smoker box | ❌ | Built-in smoker with wood pellets |
| Pizza Oven Function | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Heat-Up Time | Fast (approx. 10 mins) | Very fast | Preheats in minutes |
| Temperature Control | 4 independent burners with knobs | Precise gas controls | Digital control with smart sensors |
| Assembly Required | ✅ (moderate to large setup) | ✅ | ❌ (plug & cook) |
Portable BBQs: For Camping, Picnics & Small Patios
If you love to BBQ on the go or have limited space, portability is key. Look for grills that are lightweight, easy to assemble, and can be safely transported.
What to look for:
- Easy setup and cleanup
- Lightweight and compact
- Sturdy for travel or uneven ground
Top Picks:
| Feature | Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker | OG701UK | George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill | Charcoal Kettle BBQ 17" | Outback Omega 200 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Electric + Wood Pellets | Electric | Charcoal | Gas |
| Cooking Area | 28 x 37 cm | 44.5 cm diameter | 43 cm diameter | 50 x 36 cm |
| Smoking Function | Built-in smoker with wood pellets | ❌ | Indirect heat only | ❌ |
| Air Fryer Function | Yes – built-in air fryer mode | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Heat-Up Time | Very fast (preheats in minutes) | Fast (approx. 8–10 mins) | Slow (15–20 mins) | Fast (approx. 10 mins) |
| Temperature Control | Digital precision control | Adjustable dial | Manual (vents & charcoal) | Dial-controlled burners |
| Assembly Required | ❌ (plug & cook) | ✅Minimal | ✅Minimal assembly | ✅ (moderate assembly) |
What Are the Must-Have BBQ Accessories
- Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Flat Plate
- 3 Piece BBQ Tool Set
- BBQ Cover
- Ninja Woodfire Pellets
- Supagrill Charcoal BBQ Briquettes
To top it all off, we even caught up with Today Show’s chef, Kevin Dundon, to chat about the best way to make the most of the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill. His advice? Keep it simple, let the woodfire flavor shine, and don’t be afraid to experiment with smoke.
Whether you're grilling steaks or air-frying wings, the Ninja makes it easy to impress. And to get you started, we’ve attached some delicious, easy-to-follow recipes that’ll have you grilling like a pro in no time. Happy BBQ-ing!
