Can You Cook Banquet Pot Pies in an Air Fryer Fast Easy Delicious

Yes, you can cook Banquet pot pies in an air fryer for a faster, crispier, and more convenient meal—no oven required! Simply preheat the air fryer to 360°F, place the frozen pie in the basket, and cook for 22–25 minutes, checking halfway for even browning. The result? A flaky crust and perfectly heated filling, all in under 30 minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Cook Banquet pot pies in an air fryer safely and quickly.
• Preheat first: Ensures even cooking and a crispy crust every time.
• Adjust temperature: Use 360°F (182°C) for perfect results without burning.
• Flip halfway: Promotes uniform browning and thorough heating.
• Check doneness: Internal temp of 165°F (74°C) means it’s fully cooked.
• No thawing needed: Cook directly from frozen for fast, easy meals.
• Ideal for leftovers: Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.

Can You Cook Banquet Pot Pies in an Air Fryer? Fast, Easy, Delicious

Let’s be real—there’s something deeply comforting about a Banquet pot pie. The golden, flaky crust, the creamy, savory filling, and that satisfying *crunch* when you bite into it. For years, these frozen favorites have been a go-to for quick, hearty meals, especially when time is tight or you’re craving a taste of nostalgia. But what if I told you there’s a faster, crispier, and arguably better way to cook them than in the oven? Enter the air fryer: the modern kitchen gadget that’s changing how we cook frozen foods.

If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen, staring at a Banquet pot pie and wondering, “Can you cook Banquet pot pies in an air fryer?”—the answer is a resounding yes. And not just yes, but heck yes, with benefits. In this post, we’re diving deep into how to cook Banquet pot pies in an air fryer, why it works so well, and how you can get that perfect crust and evenly heated filling every single time. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a quick and delicious meal, this method might just become your new favorite kitchen hack.

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

Before we get into the how, let’s talk about the why. Why should you even consider cooking your Banquet pot pie in an air fryer instead of the traditional oven? The answer lies in how air fryers work—and how they outperform conventional methods in speed, texture, and convenience.

How Air Fryers Work (And Why That Matters)

Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation (convection) to cook food from all sides at once. Unlike ovens, which heat up slowly and often leave cold spots, air fryers preheat quickly and deliver consistent, high-heat airflow. This means food cooks faster and more evenly. For something like a Banquet pot pie—which has a thick, insulated crust and a dense filling—this is a huge advantage.

Think of it this way: in a regular oven, the outside of the pot pie might get golden brown, but the center can still be lukewarm. In an air fryer, the hot air hits the crust from all angles, crisping it beautifully while the filling heats through more uniformly. No more biting into a cold center or a soggy bottom.

Speed and Efficiency: Save Time Without Sacrificing Quality

Let’s talk numbers. A Banquet pot pie in the oven typically takes 50–60 minutes at 350°F (175°C), including preheating. In an air fryer? You’re looking at **25–35 minutes total**, depending on your model and the number of pies. That’s a 40–50% time savings—huge when you’re hungry and short on time.

Plus, air fryers don’t require preheating in most cases (or only take 2–3 minutes), and they use less energy. No more waiting for the oven to heat up while your stomach growls. Just pop the pot pie in, set the timer, and go about your day.

Texture and Taste: Crispy Crust, Hot Filling

Here’s where the magic happens. The air fryer’s convection heat creates a perfectly crisp crust—golden, flaky, and satisfyingly crunchy. No sogginess. No undercooked edges. And because the heat is so consistent, the filling heats through without drying out or turning into a lukewarm mush.

One reader, Sarah from Ohio, shared: “I tried cooking a Banquet chicken pot pie in my air fryer after seeing a TikTok, and I was shocked. The crust was like it had been baked in a professional oven, and the inside was steaming hot. I’ll never go back to the regular oven method.”

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Banquet Pot Pies in an Air Fryer

Ready to try it yourself? Here’s a foolproof method that works for most standard 7-ounce Banquet pot pies (chicken, beef, or turkey). The steps are simple, but a few key tips make all the difference.

1. Choose the Right Air Fryer Basket Size

Not all air fryers are created equal. A 3–5 quart basket is ideal for a single pot pie. If your basket is too small, the pie won’t fit. If it’s too big, the airflow won’t be as effective. Measure your pot pie (it’s about 6.5 inches wide) and make sure it fits with at least 1 inch of space around the edges. This allows hot air to circulate properly.

Pro tip: If you’re cooking two pies, make sure they don’t touch. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.

2. Preheat the Air Fryer (Optional but Recommended)

While not always necessary, preheating for 2–3 minutes at 350°F (175°C) helps start the cooking process faster and gives you a more consistent result. If you skip it, just add 2–3 minutes to the cook time.

3. Remove the Pot Pie from the Cardboard Tray (Critical!)

This is a must-do. The cardboard tray is not air fryer-safe. It can catch fire or release harmful fumes when exposed to high heat. Instead, place the pot pie directly on the air fryer basket or on a small, oven-safe plate (like a silicone trivet or a metal pie plate that fits).

Note: Some people use parchment paper liners. These work, but avoid wax paper—it can melt. Parchment is safe up to 420°F, so it’s fine for this recipe.

4. Set the Temperature and Time

Here’s the standard method:

• Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
• Time: 25–30 minutes
• Flip halfway: After 15 minutes, carefully flip the pot pie over using tongs or a spatula. This ensures even browning on both sides.

After flipping, cook for another 10–15 minutes. The total time depends on your air fryer model and how cold the pie was when you started. If your freezer is extra cold, add 2–3 minutes.

5. Check for Doneness

How do you know it’s ready? Look for:

• A golden-brown, crispy crust
• Steam rising from the filling when you poke it with a fork
• No frozen or icy spots in the center

Use a meat thermometer if you want to be precise: the filling should reach **165°F (74°C)**. But honestly, if it’s steaming and the crust is crisp, you’re good to go.

6. Let It Rest Before Eating

Yes, this is important. Let the pot pie sit for 2–3 minutes after cooking. Why? The filling is extremely hot and can burn your mouth if you dig in right away. Resting also helps the crust stay crisp instead of turning soggy from trapped steam.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Results

Even with the basic method down, a few extra tips can take your air fryer Banquet pot pie from “good” to “restaurant-quality.” Here’s what seasoned air fryer users do to get the best results.

Don’t Skip the Flip (Seriously)

Flipping halfway is the secret to even cooking. Without it, the bottom crust might stay pale and soggy while the top gets too brown. Use long-handled tongs or a fish spatula to gently turn the pie over. Yes, it’s a little awkward—but it’s worth it.

Use a Trivet or Plate for Easy Handling

Instead of placing the pot pie directly on the basket, try using a small metal pie plate or a silicone trivet. This makes flipping easier and prevents the pie from sticking. Just make sure the plate is air fryer-safe (no plastic or non-stick coatings that can’t handle high heat).

Brush with Butter or Egg Wash for Extra Crispness

Want that bakery-style shine? Lightly brush the top crust with melted butter or a beaten egg before cooking. This enhances browning and gives the crust a richer flavor. A sprinkle of coarse salt or dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary) adds a gourmet touch.

Adjust Time for Multiple Pies

Cooking two pot pies at once? Add 5–7 minutes to the total time. Make sure they’re not touching, and rotate their positions halfway through for even airflow. Some larger air fryers (6+ quarts) can handle two pies easily; smaller ones might struggle.

Try a “Crust-Only” Crisp (For Leftovers)

Have a partially eaten pot pie? Reheat just the crust in the air fryer for 3–5 minutes at 350°F. It’ll come out as crispy as when it was fresh—no microwave mushiness.

Watch for Overcooking (It Happens!)

Every air fryer runs a little differently. If your first pie comes out too dark, reduce the time by 2–3 minutes next time. If it’s undercooked, add time. Take notes so you can perfect it for your specific model.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here are the most common pitfalls when cooking Banquet pot pies in an air fryer—and how to avoid them.

Leaving the Cardboard Tray On

This is the #1 mistake. The cardboard is not safe for high-heat cooking. It can smoke, catch fire, or release toxic fumes. Always remove the pot pie from the tray before cooking. No exceptions.

Overcrowding the Basket

Trying to cook two pot pies in a small air fryer? Bad idea. Overcrowding blocks airflow, leading to uneven cooking. One pie at a time is best for most models. If you have a large 7-quart air fryer, two might work—but keep them at least 1 inch apart.

Not Flipping the Pie

Skipping the flip leads to a pale bottom crust. The air fryer’s heating element is usually on the top, so the top browns faster. Flipping ensures both sides get equal exposure to hot air.

Opening the Basket Too Often

Resist the urge to peek every 5 minutes. Every time you open the basket, heat escapes, and cooking slows down. Set the timer and trust the process. Only open to flip halfway and at the end.

Eating Too Soon

As tempting as it is, don’t eat the pot pie immediately. The filling can be dangerously hot—like “third-degree burn” hot. Let it rest for 2–3 minutes. Use that time to set the table or pour a drink.

Using the Wrong Temperature

Too high (400°F+), and the crust burns before the filling heats through. Too low (300°F), and it takes forever and the crust stays soft. 350°F is the sweet spot.

Air Fryer vs. Oven: Side-by-Side Comparison

Let’s break down how cooking Banquet pot pies in an air fryer compares to the traditional oven method. This table highlights the key differences in time, texture, energy use, and convenience.

Factor	Air Fryer	Conventional Oven
Cook Time	25–35 minutes (no preheat)	50–60 minutes (includes preheat)
Crust Texture	Crispy, golden, evenly browned	Can be pale or soggy on bottom
Filling Heat	Evenly heated, steaming hot	Risk of cold center or overcooked edges
Energy Use	Low (smaller appliance, faster cooking)	High (large oven, long preheat)
Cleanup	Easy (basket is removable, dishwasher-safe)	Harder (oven may need wiping)
Convenience	Quick, compact, no preheat needed	Slower, requires preheating, takes up space

This comparison shows why so many home cooks are switching to air fryers for frozen meals. The air fryer wins in every category except capacity—but for most people, that’s not a dealbreaker.

Final Thoughts: Is the Air Fryer Method Worth It?

So, back to the original question: Can you cook Banquet pot pies in an air fryer? Absolutely—and you absolutely should. This method delivers a faster, crispier, and more evenly cooked meal than the oven, with less energy and hassle. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, quick lunches, or when you’re craving comfort food without the wait.

The key is following a few simple rules: remove the cardboard tray, flip halfway, don’t overcrowd, and let it rest. With those steps, you’ll get a pot pie that’s golden on the outside, steaming on the inside, and ready to eat in under 30 minutes. No more waiting around, no more soggy crusts, no more guessing if it’s done.

And let’s not forget the fun factor. There’s something satisfying about watching your pot pie transform in the air fryer—the crust puffing up, the edges turning golden, the aroma filling the kitchen. It’s like a mini science experiment that ends with a delicious reward.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent feeding a hungry family, or just someone who loves a good shortcut, cooking Banquet pot pies in an air fryer is a win-win. It’s fast, easy, and delicious—exactly what a modern kitchen should deliver. So next time you’re reaching for that frozen pot pie, skip the oven and give your air fryer a try. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook Banquet pot pies in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook Banquet pot pies in an air fryer for a crispy, golden crust and evenly heated filling. This method is faster than oven baking and delivers delicious results with minimal effort.

How long do you cook a Banquet pot pie in the air fryer?

Cook a frozen Banquet pot pie in the air fryer at 360°F (182°C) for 22–28 minutes, flipping halfway through. Adjust time slightly based on your air fryer model and desired crust crispiness.

Do you need to preheat the air fryer for Banquet pot pies?

Preheating the air fryer for 3–5 minutes ensures even cooking and a crispier crust. While not mandatory, it improves the texture of your Banquet pot pie.

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

Yes, but ensure they’re spaced apart for proper air circulation. Overcrowding may lead to uneven cooking—cook in batches if needed for the best results.

Is the air fryer the best way to cook Banquet pot pies?

The air fryer is ideal for quick, crispy Banquet pot pies with less energy than an oven. It’s perfect for single servings or small households seeking fast, easy, and delicious meals.

Do you need to add oil when cooking Banquet pot pies in an air fryer?

No, you don’t need to add oil—the pot pie’s butter-rich crust crisps up perfectly in the air fryer. Spraying oil is optional for extra browning but not required.