Can You Put a Pot Pie in the Air Fryer Discover the Perfect Crispy Result

Yes, you can put a pot pie in the air fryer—and it’s the ultimate hack for achieving a crispy, golden crust with a perfectly heated filling in half the time of conventional baking. Just preheat, place the pie in a safe dish or foil tray, and air fry at 360°F for 15–20 minutes for delicious, flaky results every time.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can air fry pot pies: Achieve crispy crusts without oven baking.
• Preheat for best results: Ensures even cooking and optimal texture.
• Adjust time and temperature: Use 350°F for 12–15 minutes, checking often.
• Keep pies spaced apart: Prevents steaming and ensures crispiness.
• Brush crust with oil: Enhances browning and flavor.
• Use parchment liners: Simplifies cleanup and prevents sticking.
• Check internal temperature: Ensure filling reaches 165°F for food safety.

The Air Fryer Revolution: Transforming Comfort Food Classics

The humble pot pie—a savory, comforting meal encased in a buttery crust—has long been a staple of home-cooked dinners and freezer aisles alike. Traditionally baked in an oven, this classic dish is beloved for its flaky pastry, rich filling, and nostalgic appeal. But in recent years, the air fryer has taken the culinary world by storm, promising faster cooking times, crispier results, and energy efficiency. This begs the question: Can you put a pot pie in the air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes—and the results might just surpass your oven-baked expectations.

Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to mimic deep-frying without submerging food in oil. This technology excels at achieving a golden, crispy exterior while keeping interiors moist and tender—precisely what you want in a pot pie. Whether you’re working with a store-bought frozen pot pie, a homemade creation, or even a single-serving hand pie, the air fryer can deliver restaurant-quality results in a fraction of the time. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about cooking pot pies in the air fryer, from temperature settings and cook times to troubleshooting common issues and maximizing flavor.

How the Air Fryer Works: The Science Behind Crispy Perfection

Before diving into cooking techniques, it’s essential to understand how the air fryer works and why it’s uniquely suited for pot pies. Unlike conventional ovens, which rely on radiant heat from heating elements, air fryers use a high-powered fan to circulate hot air around the food at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour. This rapid airflow creates a convection effect that crisps the surface while sealing in moisture.

Convection vs. Conventional Oven Cooking

The key advantage of convection (air fryer) cooking is its ability to brown and crisp food more efficiently. In a traditional oven, heat rises slowly, and food often sits in a pocket of warm air, leading to uneven browning. The air fryer, however, forces hot air to move continuously, ensuring every surface of the pot pie is exposed to consistent heat. This results in a uniform golden crust and a perfectly cooked filling—no soggy bottoms or undercooked edges.

• Faster cooking: Air fryers typically preheat in 3–5 minutes and cook food 20–30% faster than ovens.
• Energy efficiency: Using less power than a full-sized oven, air fryers are ideal for single servings or small households.
• Minimal preheating: Most air fryers require little to no preheating, saving time and energy.

Why Pot Pies Thrive in Air Fryers

Pot pies are ideal candidates for air frying due to their structure. The pastry shell acts as a barrier that benefits from direct heat exposure, while the filling (usually a thick stew of meat, vegetables, and sauce) needs gentle, even cooking to avoid curdling or drying out. The air fryer’s precise temperature control and airflow ensure the crust crisps without burning, while the filling heats through without overcooking. Additionally, frozen pot pies—often criticized for rubbery crusts when microwaved—transform into flaky, golden delights in an air fryer.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook a Pot Pie in the Air Fryer

Whether you’re reheating a frozen pot pie or baking a fresh one, following a few key steps ensures success. Here’s a detailed guide for both scenarios, complete with temperature recommendations and timing tips.

Cooking a Frozen Pot Pie

Frozen pot pies are a convenient option, and the air fryer can turn them into a gourmet experience. Follow these steps for best results:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). While preheating isn’t always required, it helps achieve a crispier crust.
2. Remove packaging and place the frozen pot pie in the air fryer basket. Do not thaw—cooking from frozen ensures the crust stays intact.
3. Air fry for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For extra crispiness, lightly brush the crust with melted butter or oil after 10 minutes.
4. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The filling should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
5. Rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to allow the filling to settle and avoid burns.

Pro Tip: For single-serving pot pies (e.g., 7 oz), reduce cook time to 15–18 minutes. Larger pies (10–12 oz) may need 25–30 minutes.

Baking a Fresh or Homemade Pot Pie

For homemade pot pies, the air fryer offers a quicker alternative to oven baking. Here’s how to adapt your recipe:

1. Assemble the pot pie in an air fryer-safe dish (see section 4 for dish options). Fill with your filling and top with pastry, sealing the edges.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
3. Brush the crust with egg wash or milk for shine and color.
4. Cook for 20–25 minutes, checking at 15 minutes to prevent over-browning. Cover the crust with foil if needed.
5. Rest for 5 minutes to allow the filling to thicken before serving.

Example: A 9-inch homemade chicken pot pie with a double crust cooks perfectly in 22 minutes at 375°F, with a golden, flaky crust and steaming filling.

Adjusting for Different Air Fryer Models

Air fryers vary in size and power. Here’s how to adapt:

• Basket-style air fryers: Ideal for individual pies or small dishes. Use a liner or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Oven-style air fryers: Accommodate larger pies or multiple servings. Rotate the dish halfway through for even cooking.
• Small vs. large units: Smaller fryers (3–5 quarts) cook faster; larger ones (6–8 quarts) may need 2–5 extra minutes.

Choosing the Right Pot Pie and Dish for Air Frying

Not all pot pies and dishes are created equal when it comes to air frying. Selecting the right combination ensures safety, even cooking, and optimal texture.

Types of Pot Pies: Store-Bought vs. Homemade

Store-bought frozen pot pies (e.g., Marie Callender’s, Banquet) are designed for oven baking, but most adapt well to air frying. Check the packaging for oven instructions and reduce time by 20–25%. Avoid pies with plastic lids or non-oven-safe packaging.

Homemade pot pies offer more flexibility. Use a filling that’s not too runny (add thickeners like flour or cornstarch) to prevent leaks. For a crispier crust, opt for puff pastry or a lattice top, which allows steam to escape.

• Meat pies: Chicken, turkey, or beef—ensure meat is fully cooked before assembling.
• Vegetarian pies: Hearty vegetables (potatoes, carrots, mushrooms) hold up well.
• Single-serving vs. family-sized: Air fryers excel at individual portions, but larger pies can work in oven-style models.

Selecting Air Fryer-Safe Dishes

The dish you use matters. Here are top options:

Dish Type	Best For	Notes
Oven-safe ceramic ramekins	Single-serving pies	Heat-resistant up to 500°F; ideal for even cooking.
Cast iron skillets	Large or deep-dish pies	Retains heat well but may require longer preheating.
Stoneware pie dishes	Homemade double-crust pies	Prevents soggy bottoms; check for air fryer compatibility.
Silicone molds	Mini pies or hand pies	Flexible for easy removal; may need a tray for stability.

Warning: Avoid glass dishes unless labeled “air fryer-safe.” Rapid temperature changes can cause cracking. Metal dishes are safe but may darken the crust faster—monitor closely.

Pro Tips for the Crispiest, Most Flavorful Pot Pies

Want to elevate your air-fried pot pie? These expert tips guarantee a restaurant-worthy result every time.

Enhancing Crust Crispiness

The crust is the star of any pot pie. To achieve maximum crispiness:

• Brush with egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water) for shine and browning.
• Sprinkle with coarse salt or herbs (rosemary, thyme) before cooking.
• Use a light oil spray (avocado or olive oil) on the crust for extra crunch.
• Score the top crust to allow steam to escape and prevent sogginess.

Example: A chicken pot pie brushed with egg wash and finished with a sprinkle of smoked paprika develops a rich, golden hue and smoky flavor.

Preventing Soggy Bottoms and Dry Fillings

Common issues and solutions:

• Soggy crust: Line the dish with parchment paper or use a lattice top to release steam.
• Burnt edges: Cover the crust with foil for the last 5–7 minutes of cooking.
• Undercooked filling: Thaw frozen filling slightly before baking, or use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
• Dry filling: Add a splash of broth or cream to the filling before sealing the crust.

Flavor Boosters and Customizations

Transform a basic pot pie into a gourmet dish with these ideas:

• Cheese infusion: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan between the filling and crust.
• Herb-infused butter: Mix melted butter with thyme or sage and brush on the crust.
• Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
• Umami kick: Stir in Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for depth.

Pro Tip: For a vegetarian pot pie, use a mix of mushrooms, lentils, and roasted vegetables for a meaty texture.

Troubleshooting Common Air Fryer Pot Pie Problems

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here’s how to diagnose and fix common issues.

Uneven Cooking or Burnt Spots

Causes and solutions:

• Overcrowding: Never stack pies or use dishes that block airflow. Leave at least 1 inch of space around the dish.
• Hot spots: Rotate the dish halfway through cooking. Some air fryers have uneven heat distribution.
• High temperature: Reduce heat by 25°F if the crust browns too quickly.

Example: A 10-inch pot pie in a small air fryer may need to be cut in half or cooked in two batches to avoid burning.

Leaking Filling or Soggy Crust

Prevention is key:

• Seal the crust properly: Crimp edges with a fork or use egg wash as “glue.”
• Thickened filling: Use 1–2 tbsp flour or cornstarch per cup of liquid to prevent leaks.
• Pre-cook vegetables: Raw potatoes or carrots release moisture—roast or sauté them first.

Frozen Pot Pie Not Cooking Through

If the crust is golden but the filling is cold:

• Increase cook time: Add 5–10 minutes, checking every 2 minutes.
• Poke holes in the crust: Allows steam to escape and heat to penetrate deeper.
• Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the center reaches 165°F (74°C).

Note: Some frozen pies have thicker crusts—adjust time accordingly.

Conclusion: The Air Fryer—A Game-Changer for Pot Pies

The answer to “Can you put a pot pie in the air fryer?” is not just yes—it’s yes, and you should. Whether you’re craving a quick frozen meal or a homemade masterpiece, the air fryer delivers a crispy, golden crust, a piping-hot filling, and a fraction of the cooking time compared to traditional ovens. By following the steps outlined here—from selecting the right dish and adjusting cook times to troubleshooting common pitfalls—you’ll unlock a new level of convenience and flavor in your pot pie game.

Beyond practicality, air-fried pot pies offer endless customization opportunities. Experiment with gourmet fillings, herb-infused crusts, or spicy twists to make each pie uniquely yours. And with energy efficiency and minimal cleanup, the air fryer is a sustainable choice for busy households. So next time you reach for that frozen pot pie or plan a cozy dinner, skip the oven and let your air fryer work its magic. The perfect pot pie—crispy, comforting, and utterly delicious—is just 20 minutes away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put a pot pie in the air fryer for a crispier crust?

Yes, cooking a pot pie in the air fryer delivers an exceptionally crispy crust thanks to the rapid circulation of hot air. The air fryer’s intense heat ensures even browning without overcooking the filling.

How long should you cook a frozen pot pie in the air fryer?

For a frozen pot pie, air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Do you need to adjust the temperature when making a pot pie in the air fryer?

Yes, reduce the temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) compared to conventional oven instructions to prevent over-browning. This ensures the crust cooks evenly while the filling heats through.

Can you cook a homemade pot pie in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Homemade pot pies can be air-fried in oven-safe ramekins or disposable aluminum tins. Cook at 350°F (177°C) for 15–20 minutes, depending on size.

Is an air fryer better than an oven for reheating leftover pot pie?

An air fryer is ideal for reheating pot pie because it restores crispiness faster than a microwave or oven. Reheat at 320°F (160°C) for 5–8 minutes for best results.

Can you put a pot pie in the air fryer without drying it out?

To avoid drying, lightly brush the crust with butter or oil and avoid overcooking. The air fryer’s efficient heat preserves moisture in the filling while crisping the exterior.