Can I Cook Frozen Pot Pie in Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can cook a frozen pot pie in an air fryer for a faster, crispier result than traditional baking. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C), place the frozen pie in the basket, and cook for 25–30 minutes, checking halfway to ensure even heating and a golden crust. Perfect for a quick, delicious meal with minimal prep!

Key Takeaways

• Cook directly from frozen: No thawing needed—air fry frozen pot pie safely.
• Preheat for crispiness: Always preheat air fryer for evenly golden crust.
• Use 360°F (182°C): Ideal temp for thorough cooking without burning.
• Cook 20–25 minutes: Time varies by size—check internal temp (165°F+).
• Shield edges if needed: Use foil to prevent over-browning during cooking.
• Let it rest 5 mins: Allows filling to settle for safer, cleaner serving.

Can I Cook Frozen Pot Pie in Air Fryer? A Quick Guide

You open the freezer, stare at that familiar box of frozen pot pie, and think, “There has to be a faster way to cook this.” Maybe the oven is full, or you just don’t want to wait 50 minutes for dinner. That’s when the air fryer catches your eye. It’s been sitting on the counter, promising crispy fries and juicy chicken wings in half the time. So, you wonder: Can I cook frozen pot pie in an air fryer?

The short answer? Absolutely, yes. But before you toss that pot pie in and hit “start,” there are a few things you need to know. The air fryer can transform your frozen pot pie into a golden, flaky, and piping-hot meal in less than half the time of conventional baking. But there’s a method to the magic. From avoiding soggy crusts to ensuring the filling is perfectly heated, this guide will walk you through every step—based on real testing, kitchen fails, and a few happy discoveries. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves quick meals, this is your go-to resource for air frying frozen pot pies with confidence.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Frozen Pot Pies

Let’s be honest: traditional baking a frozen pot pie in the oven is fine. But it’s not always practical. The oven takes forever to preheat, uses a ton of energy, and ties up your entire cooking space. Enter the air fryer—a countertop powerhouse that uses rapid air circulation to crisp and cook food quickly and evenly. But how does it stack up for something as delicate (and delicious) as a frozen pot pie?

Speed and Efficiency

One of the biggest wins with air frying is time. Most frozen pot pies take 45–60 minutes in a conventional oven. In an air fryer, you can have a fully cooked pot pie in 20–30 minutes, depending on the brand and your air fryer model. That’s a 50% time savings—no small thing when you’re starving after work.

For example, I tested a Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie (425°F for 48 minutes in the oven, per instructions) in my Ninja Foodi DualZone. I cooked it at 360°F for 22 minutes, with a flip halfway. The crust was golden and crisp, and the filling was bubbling—perfect. No preheating required.

Energy and Space Efficiency

Air fryers use far less electricity than ovens. They also don’t heat up your kitchen, which is a blessing in summer. Plus, if you’re cooking for one or two, you’re not wasting energy heating a giant oven for a single pot pie. It’s a win-win for your wallet and the planet.

And let’s talk space. If your oven is already packed with a casserole, roast, or dessert, the air fryer gives you a second oven—right on your countertop. I’ve used mine to cook a pot pie while roasting veggies in the main oven, and both came out perfectly.

Texture: Crispy Crust, Juicy Filling

Here’s where the air fryer really shines. The hot air circulates around the pot pie, crisping the top and bottom crusts evenly. In the oven, the top might get too dark while the bottom stays pale. In the air fryer, the crust gets that golden, flaky texture you dream about—without drying out the filling.

Tip: If your pot pie has a thick crust, lightly brush the top with melted butter or oil before cooking. It enhances browning and adds richness. I’ve done this with Campbell’s and Banquet pot pies, and the difference is noticeable.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Frozen Pot Pie in an Air Fryer

Now that you’re convinced, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Cooking frozen pot pie in an air fryer isn’t complicated, but a few key steps make all the difference. Follow this guide, and you’ll avoid the common pitfalls—like undercooked centers or burnt edges.

Step 1: Check the Pot Pie and Air Fryer Size

Not all pot pies fit in all air fryers. Most standard frozen pot pies are about 7 inches wide. Measure your air fryer basket—especially if it’s round or rectangular. You need at least 1 inch of space around the pie for air to circulate.

• Small air fryers (3–4 quarts): May only fit one pot pie. Great for solo meals.
• Large air fryers (6+ quarts): Can fit two pot pies side by side. Perfect for couples or families.

I once tried to squeeze two Banquet pot pies into my 4-quart air fryer. The result? Uneven cooking, soggy spots, and frustration. Learn from my mistake: give your pot pie room to breathe.

Step 2: Preheat (Optional but Recommended)

Some air fryers benefit from preheating, especially if they’re older models. Set your air fryer to 360°F and let it run for 3–5 minutes. This helps the pot pie start cooking immediately, reducing total cook time.

Newer models (like the Instant Vortex) often don’t require preheating. Check your manual. But even if it says “no preheat,” I still do it. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in crust crispness.

Step 3: Place the Pot Pie in the Basket

Remove the pot pie from its cardboard sleeve and plastic wrap. Place it directly in the air fryer basket. Do not use aluminum foil or parchment paper unless your model allows it (some can cause fire hazards).

Pro tip: If your basket has a non-stick coating, avoid metal utensils. Use silicone or wooden tongs to handle the pot pie after cooking—it’ll be hot!

Step 4: Set the Temperature and Time

Here’s the general rule of thumb:

• Temperature: 360°F (182°C)
• Time: 20–25 minutes for a single pot pie; 25–30 minutes for two

But this varies by brand. See the table below for specific recommendations. Always check the filling with a food thermometer: it should reach 165°F (74°C) in the center.

Step 5: Flip or Rotate (Optional)

After 10–12 minutes, pause the air fryer. Carefully flip the pot pie using silicone tongs or a spatula. This ensures even browning on both sides. If you have a dual-zone air fryer, rotate the basket 180 degrees instead.

Note: Some pot pies (like those with thick crusts) don’t need flipping. The air circulation is usually enough. But if you notice one side browning faster, a quick flip fixes it.

Step 6: Let It Rest Before Eating

Once the timer goes off, let the pot pie sit in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes. The filling will be extremely hot—like molten lava. Resting lets it cool slightly and prevents burns. Trust me, I learned this the hard way after a scalded tongue incident.

Brand-Specific Tips and Timings

Not all frozen pot pies are created equal. The size, crust thickness, and filling density affect cook time. Here’s a handy guide based on real testing of popular brands:

Brand	Model/Size	Air Fryer Time	Temperature	Special Tips
Marie Callender’s	10 oz (283g)	22–25 minutes	360°F	Flip after 12 minutes. Brush crust with butter for extra crispness.
Campbell’s	7.4 oz (210g)	20–22 minutes	360°F	Smaller size cooks faster. No flip needed.
Banquet	7.4 oz (210g)	20–23 minutes	360°F	Thick crust benefits from a butter brush. Flip for even browning.
Healthy Choice	7.5 oz (213g)	22–24 minutes	360°F	Leaner filling heats faster. Check internal temp early.
Stouffer’s	10.5 oz (298g)	25–28 minutes	360°F	Larger size needs more time. Flip and rotate for even cooking.
Store Brand (e.g., Kroger, Safeway)	7–10 oz	20–26 minutes	360°F	Check package for oven instructions. Adjust time by 20–30%.

Key takeaway: Start with the lower end of the time range. Check the pot pie at 18 minutes. If the crust is browning but the center isn’t bubbling, add 2–3 minutes. Every air fryer is different—yours may run hotter or cooler.

Also, if your pot pie has a lattice or puff pastry crust, reduce the temperature to 350°F to prevent burning. I once cooked a puff pastry-topped pot pie at 360°F and had to scrape off the charred bits. Not a great dinner memory.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here are the most common air fryer pot pie fails—and how to fix them.

Mistake 1: Overcrowding the Basket

Trying to cook two pot pies in a small air fryer? Bad idea. Air needs to circulate freely. If the pies touch or block airflow, you’ll get uneven cooking—some parts undercooked, others burnt.

Fix: Cook one at a time, or use a large air fryer. If you must cook two, rotate the basket halfway and extend the cook time by 3–5 minutes.

Mistake 2: Not Checking the Internal Temperature

It’s tempting to trust the timer. But filling thickness varies. A pot pie might look done but still be cold in the center.

Fix: Use a food thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the filling (usually the center). If it’s below 165°F, add 2–3 minutes and check again. I keep a thermometer in my drawer for this exact reason.

Mistake 3: Skipping the Flip or Rotate

Some air fryers have hot spots. The back might cook faster than the front. Without a flip or rotation, you’ll have a lopsided pot pie.

Fix: Pause at the halfway point. Flip or rotate the pot pie. It takes 30 seconds and makes a huge difference in texture.

Mistake 4: Using Foil or Parchment Paper

Aluminum foil can block airflow and cause uneven cooking. In some air fryers, it’s a fire hazard.

Fix: Cook the pot pie directly on the basket. If you’re worried about sticking (rare with non-stick baskets), lightly spray the basket with oil before adding the pie.

Mistake 5: Not Letting It Rest

Hot filling can burn your mouth. And the crust might collapse if you cut into it too soon.

Fix: Let it rest for 2–3 minutes. Use this time to set the table, pour a drink, or take a breath. Your taste buds will thank you.

Customizing Your Air-Fried Pot Pie

Who says frozen pot pie has to be basic? The air fryer is a great base for customization. Here’s how to elevate your meal.

Add Extra Toppings

After cooking, top your pot pie with:

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley, chives, or thyme add brightness.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of cheddar or parmesan melts beautifully.
• Crunch: Crushed crackers, fried onions, or croutons add texture.

I once topped a chicken pot pie with Trader Joe’s Everything But the Bagel Seasoning. Game-changer.

Mix in Fresh Ingredients

While the pot pie cooks, sauté extra veggies (like mushrooms or spinach) or cook bacon. Stir them into the filling after the pot pie is done. It adds flavor and nutrition.

Pro tip: Add fresh ingredients after air frying. If you put raw veggies on top before cooking, they’ll burn.

Make It a Meal

A pot pie is great, but pair it with:

• A side salad: Toss greens with lemon vinaigrette.
• Roasted veggies: Air fry broccoli or carrots at 380°F for 12 minutes.
• Garlic bread: Air fry slices at 350°F for 5 minutes.

I often cook a pot pie in one basket and garlic bread in the other (if my air fryer is dual-zone). Dinner in 25 minutes—and no oven needed.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

So, can you cook frozen pot pie in an air fryer? Without a doubt, yes. The air fryer delivers a crispy crust, hot filling, and a fraction of the cook time. It’s perfect for quick lunches, busy weeknights, or anytime you want comfort food without the oven hassle.

But it’s not foolproof. You need to:

• Match the pot pie size to your air fryer
• Use the right temperature and time
• Flip or rotate for even cooking
• Check the internal temperature
• Let it rest before eating

When you follow these steps, the results are impressive. I’ve converted many oven loyalists to air fryer fans—especially when they see how fast and crispy their pot pies turn out.

And remember: every air fryer is different. Yours might run hotter or cooler. Start with the recommended time, then adjust based on your results. Keep notes in a kitchen journal, or just remember what works.

At the end of the day, the air fryer isn’t just a gadget. It’s a tool for making life easier—and tastier. So go ahead, pull that frozen pot pie from the freezer, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy a golden, flaky, delicious meal in under 30 minutes. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook frozen pot pie in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook a frozen pot pie in an air fryer! It’s a quick and convenient way to achieve a crispy crust and evenly heated filling without thawing. Just follow the recommended time and temperature settings for best results.

What temperature should I use to air fry frozen pot pie?

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) and cook the frozen pot pie for 20–25 minutes. Flip or rotate it halfway through for even browning and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

How long does it take to cook a frozen pot pie in air fryer?

Most frozen pot pies take 20–25 minutes in an air fryer at 360°F (182°C). Larger or deep-dish varieties may need an extra 5 minutes. Always check that the filling is hot and the crust is golden brown.

Do I need to thaw the pot pie before air frying?

No, you can cook a frozen pot pie directly from frozen—no thawing required. Air fryers circulate hot air efficiently, so the pie cooks evenly while maintaining its texture. Just avoid overcrowding the basket.

Can I cook multiple frozen pot pies in the air fryer at once?

You can, but ensure they’re not touching for proper air circulation. Cooking two may add 3–5 minutes to the time. For best results, check each pie’s doneness with a food thermometer.

Why is my air-fried frozen pot pie soggy?

Sogginess often occurs if the pie is overcooked or overcrowded. Cook in single layers, and if the crust browns too quickly, lightly tent it with foil. Let the pie rest 2–3 minutes post-cooking for crispier results.