Can Frozen Pot Pies Be Cooked in an Air Fryer Perfectly

Yes, frozen pot pies can be cooked perfectly in an air fryer, delivering a crispy crust and evenly heated filling in less time than conventional ovens. Simply preheat the air fryer, place the pie in a foil or parchment liner to prevent leaks, and cook at 360°F (182°C) for 25–30 minutes, checking halfway for ideal browning. This method ensures convenience without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, air fryers cook frozen pot pies perfectly with crispy crusts and evenly heated fillings.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure consistent cooking and avoid soggy results.
• Cook at 360°F for 20–25 minutes, checking halfway for doneness.
• No thawing needed—air fry directly from frozen for best texture.
• Use foil if crust browns too quickly to prevent burning while heating through.
• Let rest 2–3 minutes post-cooking to avoid burns from hot filling.

Why You Should (or Shouldn’t) Cook Frozen Pot Pies in an Air Fryer

Let’s be honest—frozen pot pies are a lifesaver on busy weeknights. They’re comforting, hearty, and require zero prep. But if you’re like me, you’ve probably stared at that golden, flaky crust in the box and wondered: Can frozen pot pies be cooked in an air fryer perfectly? After all, the microwave makes the crust soggy, and the oven takes forever. Enter the air fryer—a kitchen gadget that promises crispy, evenly cooked food in half the time.

When I first tried cooking a frozen pot pie in my air fryer, I was skeptical. Would the filling stay hot without drying out? Would the crust burn on the outside while the center stayed frozen? After testing multiple brands, temperatures, and techniques (and yes, a few kitchen disasters), I’ve learned a lot. The short answer? Yes, you can cook frozen pot pies in an air fryer perfectly—but it takes the right method. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who hates waiting for the oven, this guide will help you get it right every time.

How Air Fryers Work: The Science Behind Crispy Perfection

What Makes Air Fryers Different from Ovens and Microwaves

Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food. A heating element warms the air, and a powerful fan pushes it around the food at high speed. This creates a convection effect similar to a convection oven, but in a smaller, more efficient space. Think of it like a mini tornado of hot air that crisps up the outside while cooking the inside.

Compare this to a microwave (which heats water molecules, often making food soggy) or a conventional oven (which takes longer to preheat and heat the air). Air fryers win on speed and texture—especially for foods with a breaded or flaky exterior. That’s why they’re perfect for frozen pot pies, which need a crisp crust but a hot, gooey filling.

Why Air Fryers Are Ideal for Frozen Pot Pies

Frozen pot pies have two main components: a thick, flaky crust and a dense, creamy filling. The challenge? Cooking both evenly without burning the crust or leaving the center cold. Here’s how air fryers solve this:

• Even heat distribution: The swirling hot air hits all sides of the pie, reducing the risk of hot spots.
• Faster cooking: Air fryers typically cook 20–30% faster than ovens, which is great for weeknight dinners.
• Better texture: The high-speed air crisps the crust without drying out the filling (if you time it right).

For example, a Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie takes 30 minutes in the oven at 375°F. In an air fryer, the same pie cooks in 18–22 minutes at 360°F—with a crispier crust to boot.

Step-by-Step Guide: Cooking Frozen Pot Pies in an Air Fryer

Step 1: Choose the Right Pot Pie (and Air Fryer Size)

Not all frozen pot pies are created equal. Before you start, check two things:

• Pie size: Most frozen pot pies are 7–8 inches in diameter. Measure yours and compare it to your air fryer basket. You need at least 1 inch of space around the pie for air to circulate. If it’s too tight, the crust may burn.
• Brand recommendations: Some brands work better than others. I’ve had great results with Marie Callender’s, Banquet, and Healthy Choice. Avoid pies with extra-thick crusts (like Costco’s Kirkland Signature), as they can burn before the filling heats through.

Pro tip: If your air fryer is small (3–4 quarts), cook one pie at a time. Larger models (5–6 quarts) can fit two pies side by side.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer (Yes, Really!)

Preheating is the secret to even cooking. Without it, the pie’s exterior may cook too slowly, leading to a soggy crust. Here’s how:

• Set your air fryer to 360°F (or the temperature recommended on the pie’s packaging).
• Let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. Most air fryers have a preheat setting or indicator light.

Why 360°F? It’s hot enough to crisp the crust but not so hot that it burns before the filling heats. If your pie’s instructions say 375°F, reduce the air fryer temp by 15°F to account for faster cooking.

Step 3: Place the Pie in the Basket (No Parchment Paper!)

Place the frozen pot pie directly into the preheated basket. Do not use parchment paper or foil—it blocks airflow and can cause uneven cooking. If your pie has a cardboard base, leave it on. The air fryer’s heat won’t damage it.

For extra crispiness, lightly spray the top crust with oil (optional). A few spritzes of olive or avocado oil help the crust brown evenly.

Step 4: Cook in Two Stages for Perfect Results

This is where most people mess up. Cooking the pie all at once often leads to a burnt crust and a cold center. Instead, use a two-stage method:

1. Stage 1: Cook at 360°F for 12 minutes. This heats the filling and starts crisping the crust.
2. Stage 2: Lower the temperature to 320°F for 6–10 minutes. This finishes cooking the filling without over-browning the crust.

Total time: 18–22 minutes. For larger pies (like 10-inch family-sized), add 3–5 minutes to each stage.

Step 5: Check for Doneness (Don’t Skip This!)

After cooking, let the pie rest for 2 minutes. Then, insert a meat thermometer into the center. The filling should reach 165°F (the FDA’s safe temperature for poultry and vegetables). If it’s below 165°F, cook in 2-minute increments until done.

No thermometer? Cut a small slit in the crust and check the filling. It should be steaming hot, with no icy spots.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

Mistake 1: Cooking at the Wrong Temperature

Too high? The crust burns while the filling stays frozen. Too low? The crust gets soggy. The fix: Stick to 360°F for the first stage and 320°F for the second. If your pie’s packaging says 375°F, reduce the air fryer temp by 15°F.

Example: A Banquet Chicken Pot Pie recommends 375°F for 30 minutes in the oven. In the air fryer, I use 360°F for 12 minutes + 320°F for 8 minutes. Result: Crispy crust, hot filling.

Mistake 2: Overcrowding the Basket

Trying to cook two pies at once? If they’re touching, the air can’t circulate properly. The fix: Leave at least 1 inch of space between pies. If your air fryer is too small, cook them one at a time.

Mistake 3: Not Preheating

Skipping preheat leads to uneven cooking. The fix: Always preheat for 3–5 minutes. It’s worth the wait!

Mistake 4: Forgetting to Check the Center

Burnt crust + cold center = a sad dinner. The fix: Use a thermometer or cut a slit to check the filling. Better safe than sorry.

Brand-Specific Tips and Results

Not all frozen pot pies react the same way to air frying. Here’s a breakdown of popular brands and how to cook them perfectly:

Brand	Recommended Temp	Cook Time (First Stage)	Cook Time (Second Stage)	Notes
Marie Callender’s	360°F → 320°F	12 min	8 min	Excellent crust crispiness. Filling stays creamy.
Banquet	360°F → 320°F	12 min	10 min	Filling is thinner, so it heats faster. Watch for over-browning.
Healthy Choice	350°F → 310°F	14 min	8 min	Lower temp needed—crust is more delicate.
Costco Kirkland	360°F → 320°F	15 min	10 min	Thick crust requires longer cooking. Check filling temp carefully.
Trader Joe’s	360°F → 320°F	12 min	8 min	Smaller size fits perfectly. Crispy crust, rich filling.

Pro Tips for Specific Brands

• Marie Callender’s: Spray the crust with oil for extra browning.
• Banquet: Poke 3–4 small holes in the crust before cooking to vent steam.
• Healthy Choice: Cover the crust with foil after the first stage if it browns too fast.
• Kirkland: Use a meat thermometer—this pie takes longer to heat through.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Twists and Serving Ideas

Add Flavor to Your Pot Pie

Frozen pot pies are convenient, but they can be bland. Here’s how to jazz them up:

• Top with cheese: Sprinkle cheddar or Parmesan on the crust during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
• Add fresh herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley, chives, or thyme after cooking.
• Spice it up: Drizzle with hot sauce, sriracha, or a dash of paprika for heat.
• Mix in veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or carrots before serving.

For example, I love topping a Marie Callender’s pie with crumbled bacon and green onions. It feels like a homemade meal!

Pairing Ideas for a Complete Meal

Pot pies are filling, but they need balance. Try these pairings:

• Salad: A crisp green salad with balsamic dressing.
• Soup: Tomato or butternut squash soup for a cozy combo.
• Side dishes: Mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or garlic bread.
• Drinks: A cold glass of milk, iced tea, or a light beer.

For a fun twist, serve pot pie with a side of air-fried sweet potato fries (cook at 400°F for 10 minutes). It’s a hearty, satisfying meal.

Reheating Leftovers (Yes, They Work!)

Got leftovers? Reheat them in the air fryer for best results:

• Place the pie in the basket. Spray the crust with a little water (to prevent drying).
• Cook at 320°F for 5–7 minutes, or until hot throughout.

Avoid microwaving—it makes the crust rubbery.

Final Thoughts: Is the Air Fryer the Best Way to Cook Frozen Pot Pies?

So, can frozen pot pies be cooked in an air fryer perfectly? Absolutely—if you follow the right steps. The air fryer delivers a crisp, golden crust and a hot, creamy filling in less time than the oven. It’s also more energy-efficient and easier to clean (no baking sheet to scrub!).

That said, it’s not perfect for every situation. If you’re cooking for a crowd, the oven is still the better choice. And if you’re in a rush, a microwave works (though the crust won’t be as good). But for one or two pies on a busy night? The air fryer is a game-changer.

My advice? Give it a try with your favorite brand. Preheat, use the two-stage method, and check the temperature. Once you taste that first bite—crispy crust, hot filling, zero soggy mess—you’ll never go back to the oven again. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can frozen pot pies be cooked in an air fryer?

Yes, frozen pot pies can be cooked in an air fryer, and they turn out crispy and evenly heated. Just adjust the time and temperature to avoid burning the crust while ensuring the center is fully warmed.

What’s the best way to cook a frozen pot pie in an air fryer?

Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C), place the frozen pot pie inside, and cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. This ensures a golden crust and a thoroughly heated filling without drying out.

How long do you cook a frozen pot pie in an air fryer?

Cook a standard frozen pot pie in the air fryer for 20–25 minutes at 360°F (182°C). Larger or deeper pies may need an extra 5 minutes—check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Do you need to thaw a frozen pot pie before air frying?

No, you can cook frozen pot pies directly in the air fryer without thawing. Cooking from frozen helps maintain the crust’s texture and prevents the filling from overcooking or leaking.

Can you cook multiple frozen pot pies in an air fryer at once?

It depends on your air fryer’s size—cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Proper spacing ensures hot air circulates evenly for consistent cooking and crisping.

Why do air-fried frozen pot pies taste better than microwaved ones?

Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to crisp the crust while keeping the filling moist, unlike microwaves that often make crusts soggy. The result is a more oven-like, restaurant-quality texture.