21 Wood-Fired Tailgate Ideas to Make You the Talk of the Game

Tailgating is about more than the score—it’s about food that draws a crowd. These 21 woodfire recipes turn any grill into the centerpiece, offering bold, smoky flavors and easy-to-share dishes that keep fans coming back. From classic steaks and wings to unexpected grilled desserts and fruit, this collection ensures your tailgate spread stands out whether you prefer traditional barbecue or lighter, Mediterranean-inspired options.

Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Ninja Woodfire Grilled Pork Tomahawk Chops

Ninja Grilled Tomahawk Pork Chops on a white plate.
Ninja Woodfire Grilled Pork Tomahawk Chops. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Make a statement with Ninja Woodfire Grilled Pork Tomahawk Chops. Their dramatic presentation and rich, smoky crust make them ideal for large gatherings. Cooked over woodfire, these thick chops develop deep flavor and an appealing char that draws a crowd. Serve sliced for sharing to turn your tailgate into the go-to food stop.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grilled Pork Tomahawk Chops

Ninja Woodfire Grill Smoky Whole Chicken

Smoked whole chicken on Ninja Woodfire Grill.
Ninja Woodfire Grill Smoky Whole Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

A whole woodfire-smoked chicken brings smoky aroma and juicy meat to the tailgate table. It’s a crowd-pleaser because everyone can choose their favorite pieces—crispy wings, tender thighs, or carved breast. This recipe is straightforward and makes a satisfying centerpiece for any outdoor spread.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grill Smoky Whole Chicken

Ninja Grill Tomahawk Steak

A sliced tomahawk steak on a white plate.
Ninja Grill Tomahawk Steak. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

A tomahawk steak delivers dramatic presentation and deep beefy flavor. Its long bone and generous marbling make it perfect for sharing and for creating a memorable grilling moment. Slice it thin so guests can sample the rich, smoky meat without slowing down the festivities.
Recipe: Ninja Grill Tomahawk Steak

Ninja Woodfire Grilled Pineapple With Buttery Lime Glaze

Four pieces of Grilled Pineapple With Buttery Lime Glaze on a white rectangular plate.
Ninja Woodfire Grilled Pineapple With Buttery Lime Glaze. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled pineapple with a buttery lime glaze balances sweet caramelized edges and bright citrus. It makes a refreshing side or a light dessert that contrasts nicely with heavier grilled meats. The glaze enhances the fruit’s natural sweetness while the woodfire adds a pleasant smoky note.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grilled Pineapple With Buttery Lime Glaze

Ninja Woodfire Grill Smoky Wings with Jack Daniel’s BBQ Sauce

Ninja Woodfire Grill Wings with Jack Daniel's BBQ Sauce on a white plate.
Ninja Woodfire Grill Smoky Wings with Jack Daniel’s BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Smoky wings brushed with a bold Jack Daniel’s-style BBQ sauce are a tailgate essential. They’re shareable, easy to eat, and packed with sticky, savory-sweet flavor. Grill them over woodfire for extra depth and serve hot for maximum crowd appeal.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grill Smoky Wings with Jack Daniel’s BBQ Sauce

Ninja Woodfire Grill T-Bone Steaks

A grilled t-bone steak on a black platter.
Ninja Woodfire Grill T-Bone Steaks. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

T-bone steaks offer two textures in one cut and shine with minimal seasoning when grilled over woodfire. They’re straightforward to prepare and deliver classic steakhouse flavor outdoors. Serve them hot off the grill for guests who appreciate simple, high-quality beef.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grill T-Bone Steaks

Ninja Woodfire Grilled Greek Chicken

Grilled Greek Chicken on a white plate with lemon slices.
Ninja Woodfire Grilled Greek Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Greek-style grilled chicken adds Mediterranean brightness to your menu with lemon, herbs, and garlic. It’s easy to scale for large groups and pairs well with simple sides like pita, salad, or grilled vegetables. This lighter option is flavorful without being heavy.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grilled Greek Chicken

Ninja Woodfire Grilled Asparagus

Grilled Asparagus on a white square plate.
Ninja Woodfire Grilled Asparagus. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled asparagus is a quick, flavorful vegetarian side that benefits from a touch of char and smoke. Season simply and cook until tender-crisp for a fresh, colorful plate that complements rich mains and adds nutritional variety to the tailgate table.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grilled Asparagus

Ninja Woodfire Grill Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts

Four bacon-wrapped chicken breasts on a white rectangular plate garnished with sprigs of parsley.
Ninja Woodfire Grill Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Bacon-wrapped chicken breasts combine smoky bacon and juicy chicken for a crowd-pleasing dish. The bacon locks in moisture while adding savory richness that pairs well with bold sides and communal plates. It’s an indulgent option that’s always popular at outdoor gatherings.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grill Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts

Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Grilled Sausage & Peppers

A sandwich with grilled sausage & peppers, and onions on a plate.
Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Grilled Sausage & Peppers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled sausage with peppers and onions is an easy, colorful option that invites guests to customize their sandwiches. The combination is hearty, simple to prepare in batches, and full of smoky, savory flavor—perfect for feeding a hungry tailgate crowd.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Grilled Sausage & Peppers

Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Smoked Pulled Pork

Shredded Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Smoked Pulled Pork on a white plate.
Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Smoked Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Slow-smoked pulled pork brings classic Southern comfort to any tailgate. Its tender, shredded texture and smoky flavor are perfect for sandwiches or plated meals. Prepare extras—this is often the first dish to disappear at an outdoor gathering.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Smoked Pulled Pork

Ninja Woodfire Grill Lemon-Herb Chicken

Four pieces of Ninja Woodfire Grill Lemon-Herb Chicken served on a white rectangular plate.
Ninja Woodfire Grill Lemon-Herb Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Lemon-herb chicken offers bright, fresh flavors without heaviness. The citrus and herbs lift the meat, making it ideal for daytime games or warmer weather. It’s an accessible option for guests who prefer lighter fare with plenty of taste.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grill Lemon-Herb Chicken

Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce

A plate of Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill-Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce.
Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Smoked pork tenderloin paired with a mezcal-spiced BBQ sauce adds a refined, smoky-sweet complexity to your menu. It’s a great choice when you want something a bit adventurous yet still approachable for a mixed crowd.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce

Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip

Four pieces of grilled fruit skewers on a slate plate with a bowl of cherry dip.
Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled fruit skewers with a cherry dip provide a bright, sweet contrast to savory tailgate fare. The grill enhances the fruit’s natural sugars and creates a warm, caramelized finish that pairs perfectly with a cool, fruity dip.
Recipe: Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip

Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Smoked Turkey Breast

Sliced roasted turkey breast arranged on a white plate.
Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Smoked Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Smoked turkey breast is a lean, flavorful alternative to red meat. It slices well and pairs easily with a wide range of sides, making it a flexible choice for larger gatherings or health-conscious guests.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Smoked Turkey Breast

Ninja Woodfire Pork Souvlaki

Ninja Woodfire Pork Souvlaki with Horiatiki Salad and pita bread on a white plate.
Ninja Woodfire Pork Souvlaki. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Pork souvlaki brings Greek-inspired marinades and portable skewers to the grill. These handheld bites are easy to eat while mingling and introduce bright Mediterranean flavors that many guests will enjoy.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Pork Souvlaki

Smoked Berry Crisp

A spoon lifts a portion of Smoked Berry Crisp from a bowl.
Smoked Berry Crisp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Smoked berry crisp combines caramelized, smoky fruit with a crunchy topping for a comforting dessert. Smoking the berries adds a layered sweetness that elevates this easy-to-share treat—perfect for wrapping up a game-day meal.
Recipe: Smoked Berry Crisp

Ninja Woodfire Fruit Quesadillas

Four pieces of Fruit Quesadillas on a white plate.
Ninja Woodfire Fruit Quesadillas. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Fruit quesadillas mix warm, melted cheese with sweet grilled fruit for an unexpected but delightful snack or dessert. They’re easy to make and hand out, making them great for families and groups with varied tastes.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Fruit Quesadillas

Ninja Woodfire Grill Smoked Corn on the Cob

Three ears of husked corn were arranged on a dark slate plate.
Ninja Woodfire Grill Smoked Corn on the Cob. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Smoked corn on the cob is a summer classic upgraded by the woodfire. Each kernel takes on a smoky sweetness that complements burgers, ribs, and grilled chicken. It’s a simple, satisfying side that’s always popular outdoors.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grill Smoked Corn on the Cob

Ninja Woodfire Grill Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes on a platter.
Ninja Woodfire Grill Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Crispy smashed potatoes combine a crunchy exterior with a tender interior for a comforting side that pairs well with any grilled main. They’re easy to prep ahead and finish quickly, so you won’t miss much of the game while cooking.
Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grill Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers

Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

End on a sweet note with grilled strawberry shortcake skewers. The smoky-sweet strawberries paired with biscuit or shortcake pieces create a fun, easy-to-eat dessert that’s perfect for standing and socializing. Light, festive, and crowd-friendly, it’s a great way to finish your tailgate menu.
Recipe: Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers