Can You Cook Pot Pies in an Air Fryer Discover the Crispy Truth

Yes, you can cook pot pies in an air fryer—and they come out with a crisp, golden crust that rivals oven-baked versions in half the time. The air fryer’s rapid circulation ensures even heating, delivering a flaky exterior and hot, savory filling without sogginess, making it a game-changer for quick, delicious meals.

Key Takeaways

• Cook frozen pot pies in the air fryer for faster, crispier results than oven baking.
• Preheat your air fryer to 360°F for even cooking and golden crusts every time.
• Flip halfway through cooking to ensure consistent browning and thorough heating.
• Adjust time for homemade pies—reduce cook time by 2–3 minutes for fresh dough.
• Use foil liners to catch drips and simplify cleanup without sacrificing crispiness.
• Check internal temperature—ensure fillings reach 165°F for food safety and perfect doneness.

Can You Cook Pot Pies in an Air Fryer? Discover the Crispy Truth

Imagine the comforting aroma of a golden, flaky pot pie filling your kitchen—but instead of waiting 40 minutes for your oven to do its work, you’re enjoying that same delicious meal in half the time. This culinary dream is not only possible but also incredibly easy with one modern kitchen appliance: the air fryer. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you cook pot pies in an air fryer?”—the answer is a resounding yes. In fact, air frying pot pies might just be the best way to enjoy this classic comfort food.

Pot pies have long been a staple of home cooking, beloved for their rich, savory fillings and buttery crusts. Traditionally baked in the oven, they require patience and careful monitoring to ensure the crust doesn’t burn while the filling heats through. Enter the air fryer—a countertop convection oven that uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food quickly and evenly. With its ability to crisp up surfaces like a deep fryer without submerging food in oil, the air fryer is revolutionizing how we prepare frozen and homemade meals alike. Whether you’re reheating a store-bought chicken pot pie or baking a fresh one from scratch, the air fryer delivers speed, crispiness, and convenience. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about cooking pot pies in an air fryer, from choosing the right type to mastering temperature and timing for perfect results every time.

Why Air Frying Pot Pies Is a Game-Changer

When it comes to cooking comfort foods efficiently, few appliances match the versatility and speed of the air fryer. Cooking pot pies in an air fryer isn’t just a trend—it’s a practical upgrade that solves common problems associated with traditional baking methods. Let’s break down why this method is truly a game-changer.

Speed and Efficiency

One of the biggest advantages of using an air fryer is time savings. Traditional oven-baked pot pies typically take 35–45 minutes at 375°F (190°C), depending on size and whether they’re frozen. In contrast, air-fried pot pies can be ready in as little as 12–20 minutes. The air fryer’s compact cooking chamber and powerful fan system circulate hot air rapidly, ensuring even heat distribution and faster cooking. For busy families, late-night cravings, or quick weeknight dinners, this means less waiting and more eating.

• Frozen pot pies: 15–20 minutes at 360°F (182°C)
• Homemade or refrigerated pot pies: 12–18 minutes at 375°F (190°C)
• Mini or individual-sized pies: As little as 10–12 minutes

This efficiency doesn’t come at the cost of quality—far from it. The concentrated heat ensures the crust crisps beautifully while the filling heats thoroughly.

Superior Crispiness Without the Oil

Air fryers excel at creating a crispy, golden-brown crust without requiring additional oil. Unlike microwaving—which often leaves crusts soggy—or traditional baking, which may result in uneven browning, the air fryer delivers consistent texture across the entire surface. The circulating hot air lifts moisture from the crust, enhancing crispiness while keeping the interior moist.

For health-conscious cooks, this means enjoying a satisfying, crunchy pot pie without the guilt. No greasy pans, no splatter, and no need to preheat a large oven. Plus, cleanup is minimal—most air fryer baskets are non-stick and dishwasher-safe.

Energy Efficiency and Space-Saving

Using an air fryer instead of a full-sized oven is also more energy-efficient. Ovens take time to preheat and consume more electricity or gas, especially when baking small items like individual pot pies. Air fryers, on the other hand, reach cooking temperature in 2–3 minutes and use significantly less power.

Additionally, air fryers are compact, making them ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or RVs. If you’re cooking for one or two people, there’s no need to heat an entire oven for a single pot pie. The air fryer gives you restaurant-quality results with minimal footprint.

Choosing the Right Pot Pie for Air Frying

Not all pot pies are created equal when it comes to air frying. To get the best results, it’s essential to understand the differences between various types of pot pies and how they perform in an air fryer. Whether you’re using frozen store-bought versions or making your own, the right choice will ensure a perfectly cooked, crispy, and flavorful meal.

Frozen vs. Homemade Pot Pies

Frozen pot pies are the most convenient option for air frying. Brands like Banquet, Marie Callender’s, and Stouffer’s offer a wide range of flavors—chicken, turkey, beef, and vegetarian options—that are specifically designed for oven baking. However, many of these work exceptionally well in air fryers with slight adjustments to time and temperature.

• Pros: Pre-portioned, consistent quality, widely available
• Cons: Higher sodium and preservatives, limited customization

Homemade pot pies, on the other hand, give you full control over ingredients, flavor, and portion size. You can use leftover roast chicken, fresh vegetables, and homemade gravy to create a healthier, more personalized dish. When freezing homemade pies, place them on a baking sheet, freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. This prevents them from sticking together and ensures even cooking later.

• Pros: Healthier, customizable, uses leftovers
• Cons: Requires prep time, not pre-seasoned

Size and Shape Matter

The size and shape of your pot pie directly affect how it cooks in the air fryer. Most standard air fryers (4–6 quarts) can accommodate one or two individual-sized pot pies (typically 5–6 inches in diameter). Larger family-sized pies (9–10 inches) may not fit or could block airflow, leading to uneven cooking.

For best results:

• Use individual ceramic ramekins or disposable aluminum pie pans (4.5–5.5 inches) for homemade pies.
• Ensure at least 1 inch of clearance between the pie and the air fryer basket walls to allow proper air circulation.
• Mini pot pies (3–4 inches) cook faster and are perfect for appetizers or side dishes.

Tip: If you’re cooking multiple small pies, arrange them in a single layer without touching. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping.

Crust Type: Lattice, Solid, or Hand-Held?

The type of crust also influences cooking time and texture:

• Solid crust: Heats evenly but may take slightly longer to crisp. Best for deep-dish pies.
• Lattice crust: Allows steam to escape, reducing sogginess. Crisps beautifully in air fryers.
• Hand-held or empanada-style: Perfect for air frying due to their compact shape and high surface-to-volume ratio. These often crisp up faster and more uniformly.

For frozen pies with solid tops, consider scoring the crust lightly with a knife before cooking to help steam escape and promote even browning.

Step-by-Step Guide to Air Frying Pot Pies

Now that you’ve chosen your pot pie, it’s time to master the cooking process. Air frying pot pies is simple, but following the right steps ensures a perfectly crispy crust and a piping-hot filling. Below is a detailed, foolproof guide for both frozen and homemade pot pies.

Preparing the Air Fryer and Pot Pie

Step 1: Preheat the air fryer (optional but recommended)
Set your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) and let it preheat for 2–3 minutes. Preheating ensures consistent cooking from the start, especially for frozen pies. While not mandatory, it improves results.

Step 2: Prepare the pot pie
– Frozen pies: Remove from packaging (including cardboard tray, if applicable). Place directly in the air fryer basket. If the pie has a foil bottom, leave it on—it conducts heat well.
– Homemade pies: If refrigerated, let sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. If frozen, no thawing is needed. Place in a compatible pie pan or ramekin.

Step 3: Position in the basket
Place the pot pie(s) in the center of the basket, ensuring they’re not touching the walls or each other. For larger air fryers, you can cook two side by side, but avoid stacking.

Setting Time and Temperature

Here’s a quick reference for common pot pie types:

Pot Pie Type	Temperature	Cooking Time	Notes
Frozen Individual (e.g., Banquet)	360°F (182°C)	15–20 minutes	Rotate halfway for even browning
Homemade (refrigerated)	375°F (190°C)	12–18 minutes	Check crust at 10 minutes
Homemade (frozen)	360°F (182°C)	18–22 minutes	Add 2–3 minutes if extra crisp needed
Mini Pies (3–4 inches)	375°F (190°C)	10–12 minutes	Great for appetizers

Pro Tip: Start with the lower end of the time range and check frequently. Overcooking leads to a dry filling and burnt crust.

Monitoring and Rotating for Even Cooking

After the first 8–10 minutes, open the air fryer and check the crust. If one side is browning faster, gently rotate the pie 180 degrees using tongs or a heat-safe spatula. This ensures even crispiness.

For extra browning, you can lightly brush the top crust with melted butter or egg wash before cooking. This enhances color and flavor without adding much fat.

Doneness Test: Insert a meat thermometer into the center of the pie. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety, especially if using poultry or meat fillings.

Resting Before Serving

Once cooked, let the pot pie rest for 2–3 minutes before removing from the air fryer. This allows the filling to settle, preventing burns from hot gravy. Use a pie lifter or spatula to transfer to a plate. Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Creative Variations and Customizations

While traditional chicken pot pie is a classic, the air fryer opens up a world of culinary creativity. With the right techniques, you can customize your pot pies to suit dietary needs, flavor preferences, or even special occasions. Here are some inspired ideas to elevate your air-fried pot pie game.

Vegetarian and Vegan Pot Pies

Plant-based eaters don’t have to miss out on the pot pie experience. Create a hearty vegetarian version using:

• Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, mushrooms, green beans)
• Vegetable broth-based gravy thickened with cornstarch or flour
• Plant-based protein (tofu, tempeh, lentils, or chickpeas)
• Vegan puff pastry or whole wheat crust (ensure it’s air-fryer safe)

Flavor boosters: Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste, smoked paprika for depth, or fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 14–18 minutes until golden.

International Twists

Give your pot pie a global flair:

• Mexican Pot Pie: Fill with seasoned ground turkey, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and cheese. Top with a cornbread or tortilla crust. Serve with salsa and avocado.
• Indian Pot Pie: Use spiced chickpeas, potatoes, peas, and curry gravy. Top with phyllo dough or naan-inspired crust. Garnish with cilantro and lime.
• Italian Pot Pie: Combine sausage, mushrooms, spinach, and marinara. Use a buttery crust or top with mozzarella-stuffed bread dough.

These variations cook just as quickly in the air fryer and bring exciting new flavors to your table.

Mini Pot Pies for Parties and Meal Prep

Mini pot pies are perfect for entertaining, lunchboxes, or freezing in bulk. Use muffin tins or silicone molds to create bite-sized versions:

• Appetizer-sized: 3-inch pies with chicken, turkey, or veggie fillings. Serve with dipping sauces (ranch, gravy, or aioli).
• Freezer-friendly: Assemble uncooked mini pies, freeze on a tray, then store in bags. Cook from frozen at 360°F for 15–18 minutes.
• Breakfast pot pies: Use scrambled eggs, cheese, sausage, and potatoes. Top with puff pastry. Ready in 10 minutes—perfect for busy mornings.

Bonus Tip: Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes (hearts, stars) for kids’ meals or holiday gatherings.

Crust Alternatives and Dietary Adjustments

Not everyone can enjoy traditional pie crusts. Try these alternatives:

• Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free puff pastry or make a crust from almond flour and butter.
• Low-carb/Keto: Replace flour crust with a cheese-based topping (cheddar, cream cheese, eggs) or use a cauliflower crust.
• Crustless option: Bake the filling in a ramekin and top with a crispy breadcrumb or cracker topping. Sprinkle with Parmesan and air fry for 3–4 extra minutes.

These adaptations ensure everyone at the table can enjoy a warm, comforting pot pie—no matter their dietary needs.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even the best air fryer users can run into issues when cooking pot pies. Overcooking, soggy crusts, uneven browning, and safety hazards are common pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them and achieve perfect results every time.

Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket

One of the most frequent mistakes is trying to cook too many pot pies at once. Overcrowding blocks airflow, leading to steaming instead of crisping. The result? A soft, pale crust and undercooked filling.

Solution: Cook one or two pies at a time, depending on your air fryer size. If you must cook multiple, do them in batches. Use the “single layer, no touching” rule.

Ignoring Internal Temperature

While the crust may look golden, the filling might still be cold in the center—especially with frozen pies. Eating undercooked poultry or meat poses health risks.

Solution: Always check the internal temperature with a food thermometer. Aim for 165°F (74°C) in the center. If the crust is browning too fast but the inside is cold, reduce the temperature to 350°F and cook an additional 2–3 minutes.

Using the Wrong Pan or Material

Not all pie pans are air-fryer safe. Glass or ceramic dishes can shatter from rapid temperature changes, and plastic or non-heat-resistant materials may melt.

Safe options:

• Aluminum foil pie pans (disposable or reusable)
• Oven-safe ceramic ramekins
• Metal or silicone molds (ensure they fit)

Never use paper or plastic containers in the air fryer.

Forgetting to Rotate or Check Mid-Cook

Air fryers heat from all sides, but hot spots can develop. Without rotation, one side of the pie may burn while the other stays pale.

Solution: Set a timer to check at the halfway point. Rotate the pie 180 degrees and assess browning. This simple step makes a huge difference in texture.

Not Letting the Pie Rest

Jumping straight to cutting into a fresh pot pie can result in a “gravy geyser”—a burst of hot filling that burns your mouth.

Solution: Let the pie rest for 2–3 minutes. This allows the filling to cool slightly and thicken, making it safer and more enjoyable to eat.

Conclusion: The Crispy, Convenient Future of Pot Pies

So, can you cook pot pies in an air fryer? Absolutely—and you should. The air fryer transforms this beloved comfort food into a faster, crispier, and more convenient meal without sacrificing flavor or quality. Whether you’re reheating a frozen classic or crafting a gourmet homemade version, the air fryer delivers consistently excellent results.

From saving time on busy weeknights to reducing energy use and minimizing cleanup, the benefits are clear. The key to success lies in choosing the right pot pie, using proper size and pan materials, setting the correct temperature, and monitoring the cooking process. With a little practice, you’ll master the art of air-fried pot pies and discover new ways to customize them for any taste or dietary need.

The future of comfort cooking is here—and it’s crispy, golden, and delicious. So dust off your air fryer, grab a pot pie (or make your own), and experience the magic for yourself. One bite, and you’ll never go back to the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook pot pies in an air fryer without drying them out?

Yes, you can cook pot pies in an air fryer while keeping them moist inside. The key is to avoid overcooking—follow recommended time and temperature settings (usually 350°F for 12–15 minutes) and check halfway through.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen pot pies in an air fryer?

Reheating frozen pot pies in an air fryer ensures a crispy crust and evenly heated filling. Set the air fryer to 360°F, cook for 15–20 minutes, and flip the pie halfway for consistent results.

Do air fryer pot pies get as crispy as oven-baked ones?

Absolutely! Air fryer pot pies often turn out *even crispier* than oven-baked versions because the rapid circulation of hot air creates a golden, flaky crust. The keyword here is “air fryer pot pies”—a game-changer for texture lovers.

Can you cook store-bought pot pies in an air fryer?

Yes, most store-bought pot pies (like Marie Callender’s or Banquet) cook perfectly in an air fryer. Remove any cardboard packaging, place the pie in the basket, and air fry at 350°F for 12–18 minutes.

How do you keep the crust from burning when cooking pot pies in an air fryer?

To prevent a burnt crust, lightly brush the top with oil or egg wash and cover the edges with foil if browning too quickly. Adjusting the temperature to 325°F can also help for thicker crusts.

Are air fryer pot pies healthier than traditional fried or baked ones?

Air fryer pot pies use less oil than deep-fried versions, reducing fat and calories while maintaining crispiness. However, the healthiness still depends on the ingredients—opt for whole-grain crusts and veggie-loaded fillings for a balanced meal.