Can I Put a Pot Pie in the Air Fryer Here Is What Happens

Yes, you can put a pot pie in the air fryer—and it cooks faster with a crispier crust than baking! The air fryer’s rapid circulation delivers evenly browned, flaky results in under 20 minutes, making it a game-changer for quick, satisfying meals. Just avoid overcrowding and use oven mitts—the dish gets piping hot!

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can air fry pot pies for a crispy, golden crust without deep frying.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and optimal texture.
• Use the right temperature—360°F works best for most frozen pot pies.
• Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure crispiness.
• Check internal temperature—pies should reach 165°F for food safety.
• Shorter cook time than oven baking—typically 12–15 minutes.

The Air Fryer Revolution: Can You Cook a Pot Pie in It?

Let’s face it—we’ve all been there. It’s a busy weeknight, your stomach is growling, and the last thing you want to do is spend an hour in the kitchen. You spot that frozen pot pie in the back of the freezer, the kind that promises a golden, flaky crust and a warm, savory filling. But the box says to bake it in the oven, and your oven is… well, it’s currently being used as a drying rack for laundry. Then it hits you: Can I put a pot pie in the air fryer? You’ve heard the hype about air fryers making everything from fries to chicken wings faster and crispier. Could this little countertop wonder handle your pot pie craving?

As someone who’s experimented with air frying everything from frozen burritos to leftover pizza, I was curious. I’ve had my fair share of kitchen wins and disasters, and I wanted to see if the air fryer could truly deliver on its promise of speed, convenience, and that perfect crispy crust—without turning your pot pie into a soggy, overcooked mess. So, I rolled up my sleeves, grabbed a few pot pies, and put the air fryer to the test. Here’s what happened.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Frozen Meals

The air fryer has become a staple in modern kitchens, and for good reason. Unlike traditional ovens, which rely on radiant heat, air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to cook food quickly and evenly. This method not only speeds up cooking time but also gives foods that coveted crispy exterior—think golden fries, crunchy chicken tenders, and yes, even pot pies.

How Air Fryers Work (Without the Tech Overload)

Think of an air fryer like a mini convection oven. It has a heating element and a powerful fan that circulates hot air around the food. This creates a Maillard reaction (the science behind browning and crisping) while keeping the inside moist. For frozen foods like pot pies, this means less time waiting and more time eating. No more preheating, no more soggy crusts from steam buildup—just quick, crispy results.

The Benefits for Pot Pies Specifically

• Speed: Air fryers cook pot pies in about half the time of a conventional oven. While an oven might take 40–50 minutes, an air fryer can do it in 20–25 minutes.
• Energy Efficiency: Smaller than an oven, air fryers use less electricity, making them eco-friendly and cost-effective.
• Even Cooking: The circulating air ensures the crust crisps evenly, while the filling heats through without drying out.
• No Preheating: Most air fryers are ready to go in seconds, unlike ovens that need 10–15 minutes to warm up.

But here’s the catch: not all air fryers are created equal. Some models have larger baskets, while others have dual zones or specific settings for frozen foods. The key is knowing how to adjust your technique for the best results.

What Happens When You Put a Pot Pie in the Air Fryer?

I tested three popular pot pie brands—Marie Callender’s, Banquet, and a store-brand option—to see how they performed in my air fryer. Spoiler: the results were mixed, but with a few tweaks, I found the sweet spot for each.

Test 1: Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie (10 oz)

I set my air fryer to 360°F (182°C) and placed the pot pie directly in the basket, making sure it wasn’t touching the sides. After 15 minutes, I checked the crust—it was lightly golden, but not quite there. I flipped it (more on that later) and added 5 more minutes. The result? A perfectly flaky, buttery crust with a piping-hot filling. The only downside? The bottom was slightly softer than the top. Pro tip: place a small oven-safe dish or foil ring under the pot pie to elevate it slightly for even crisping.

Test 2: Banquet Beef Pot Pie (7 oz)

This one was smaller, so I lowered the temp to 350°F (177°C) to avoid overcooking. At 18 minutes, the crust was golden, but the filling was still cold in the center. I added 3 more minutes, and it was perfect. Lesson learned: smaller pot pies need less time, but don’t rush it—the filling needs to heat through.

Test 3: Store-Brand Turkey Pot Pie (8 oz)

This was the wildcard. The crust was thinner, and the filling was denser. At 360°F for 20 minutes, the crust burned slightly on the edges, but the center was still undercooked. I covered the edges with foil and added 5 more minutes. It worked! The takeaway: adjust for crust thickness and filling density.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding: Never stack pot pies or crowd the basket. Air needs to circulate.
• Skipping the Flip: Flipping halfway ensures even browning. Use tongs or a spatula carefully.
• Ignoring Internal Temp: Use a meat thermometer to check the filling reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
• Forgetting to Elevate: Placing the pot pie on a trivet or foil ring prevents soggy bottoms.

Step-by-Step Guide to Air Frying a Pot Pie (Like a Pro)

Ready to try it yourself? Follow this foolproof method to get a crispy, golden pot pie every time—no oven required.

Step 1: Prep Your Air Fryer

No preheating needed! Just make sure your air fryer basket is clean and lightly greased (use cooking spray or a thin layer of oil). If your pot pie is very large, check that it fits with room to spare. You want at least 1 inch of space around it for air to circulate.

Step 2: Adjust the Temperature

Start with 360°F (182°C) for most 8–10 oz pot pies. For smaller ones (6–7 oz), reduce to 350°F (177°C). If your pot pie has a very thin or delicate crust, go even lower—340°F (171°C).

Step 3: Cook and Flip

• First Half: Cook for 10–12 minutes. Check the crust—it should be lightly golden.
• Flip Carefully: Use tongs or a spatula to flip the pot pie. This ensures even browning.
• Second Half: Cook for another 10–13 minutes. For larger pies, you may need up to 15 minutes.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to check the filling. It should reach 165°F (74°C). If the crust is browning too quickly, cover it with foil. If the filling is still cold, add 2–3 more minutes.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the pot pie rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking. This allows the filling to settle and prevents burns. Serve with a side salad or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Bonus Tip: Reheating Leftover Pot Pies

Got leftovers? Air fry them at 325°F (163°C) for 5–7 minutes. This revives the crust without drying out the filling. Avoid microwaving—it makes the crust rubbery.

Air Fryer Pot Pie Cooking Times: A Handy Reference

Every air fryer model is different, but here’s a quick reference table to get you started. Remember, these are guidelines—always check your pot pie with a thermometer for safety.

Pot Pie Size	Air Fryer Temp	Cook Time (Minutes)	Notes
6–7 oz (e.g., Banquet)	350°F (177°C)	18–20	Flip at 10 minutes
8–10 oz (e.g., Marie Callender’s)	360°F (182°C)	20–25	Elevate for crispy bottom
10+ oz (e.g., homemade or large store brands)	360°F (182°C)	25–30	Check internal temp at 20 minutes
Reheating leftovers	325°F (163°C)	5–7	Cover with foil if browning too fast

Creative Twists: Beyond the Boxed Pot Pie

Once you’ve mastered the basics, why not get creative? The air fryer is versatile enough to handle homemade pot pies, mini versions, and even pot pie-inspired recipes.

Homemade Pot Pies in the Air Fryer

Make your own pot pie filling (chicken, beef, or vegetarian) and pour it into individual ramekins or a pie dish that fits in your air fryer basket. Top with a store-bought or homemade crust. Cook at 360°F (182°C) for 20–25 minutes. The result? A gourmet meal with less mess and faster cleanup.

Mini Pot Pies (Perfect for Parties)

Use muffin tins or silicone molds to make bite-sized pot pies. Fill with leftover filling or a simple mix of veggies and gravy. Top with pie crust or puff pastry. Air fry at 350°F (177°C) for 12–15 minutes. These are great for appetizers or kids’ snacks.

Pot Pie Nachos (Yes, Really!)

Break up a cooked pot pie into pieces and layer it over tortilla chips. Top with cheese, sour cream, and green onions. Air fry at 325°F (163°C) for 3–4 minutes to melt the cheese. It’s a fun, unexpected twist on a classic.

Dietary Adaptations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crust or make a crustless version (like a pot pie casserole).
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Swap meat for lentils, mushrooms, or tofu. Use plant-based butter for the crust.
• Low-Carb: Skip the crust and serve the filling over cauliflower mash or in a lettuce cup.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

So, can you put a pot pie in the air fryer? Absolutely—and in most cases, you should. The air fryer delivers a faster, crispier, and more convenient cooking experience than the oven. No more waiting for the oven to preheat, no more soggy crusts, and no more energy waste. Plus, the ability to cook smaller portions or reheat leftovers without sacrificing quality is a game-changer for busy households.

That said, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. You’ll need to adjust cooking times and temperatures based on your pot pie’s size, crust thickness, and filling density. But once you nail the technique, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Whether you’re a frozen food fan or a homemade meal enthusiast, the air fryer opens up a world of possibilities.

And here’s the best part: you don’t need to be a culinary genius to get it right. With a little trial and error (and a meat thermometer), you’ll be serving up golden, flaky pot pies in no time. So next time you’re staring down a frozen pot pie, skip the oven—grab your air fryer and get ready for a crispy, comforting meal in half the time. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can cook a pot pie in the air fryer while keeping it moist. The key is to avoid overcooking—follow recommended times (usually 12–15 minutes) and check halfway through.

How do I cook a frozen pot pie in the air fryer?

For a frozen pot pie, preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C) and cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. This ensures even heating without a soggy or burnt crust.

Is it safe to put a pot pie in the air fryer if it has a foil dish?

Yes, most pot pies come in foil dishes, which are air fryer-safe. Just ensure the dish fits without touching the heating element or basket walls to prevent fire hazards.

Can I put a pot pie in the air fryer with a pastry crust?

Absolutely! Air fryers crisp pastry crusts beautifully. Cook at 350°F (177°C) for 12–18 minutes, monitoring to avoid over-browning.

Do I need to thaw a pot pie before using the air fryer?

No, you can cook it straight from frozen. Thawing isn’t required, but adjust cook time (+5–10 minutes) if your pie is particularly thick or dense.

What’s the best way to reheat a leftover pot pie in the air fryer?

Reheat at 320°F (160°C) for 5–8 minutes. This restores crispness to the crust while gently warming the filling—no soggy mess!