Can You Cook Frozen Pot Pie in Air Fryer Fast and Crispy

Yes, you can cook a frozen pot pie in an air fryer for a fast, crispy, and delicious meal. The air fryer delivers golden, flaky crusts and evenly heated fillings in under 25 minutes—no thawing required. Just preheat, place the pie in the basket, and cook at 360°F (180°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway for optimal crispiness.

Key Takeaways

• Cook directly from frozen: No thawing needed—air fryer crisps pot pie perfectly.
• Preheat for crispiness: Always preheat air fryer for evenly golden crust.
• Use 360°F (180°C): Ideal temperature for fast, crispy results in 20-25 mins.
• Flip halfway through: Flip pie for even browning and crisp edges.
• Check internal temp: Ensure filling reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
• Light spray works: A quick oil spray boosts crust crispiness without sogginess.

Can You Cook Frozen Pot Pie in Air Fryer Fast and Crispy?

Let’s be honest—there’s something deeply satisfying about biting into a golden, flaky pot pie. The crust shatters, the steam escapes, and you’re hit with that comforting aroma of savory filling. But who has time to preheat an oven, wait for it to bake, and then clean up? That’s where your trusty air fryer comes in. I remember the first time I thought, “Wait… can you cook frozen pot pie in air fryer?” I was standing in my kitchen at 6:30 PM, starving after a long day, staring at a lonely frozen pot pie in my freezer. The oven would take 50 minutes. The microwave? No, thank you—soggy crust is a crime against food. So I took a deep breath, popped that pie into my air fryer, and crossed my fingers.

Spoiler: It worked. Not only did it work, but it turned out crispier, faster, and more evenly cooked than the oven method. That night, I realized the air fryer isn’t just for fries and chicken wings—it’s a game-changer for frozen meals, especially pot pies. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who hates waiting, this method saves time, energy, and delivers restaurant-quality results at home. So, yes, you can cook frozen pot pie in an air fryer—and you should. Let’s dive into how to do it right, why it works, and what to watch out for.

Why the Air Fryer Is Perfect for Frozen Pot Pies

When I first started using my air fryer, I assumed it was only good for reheating leftovers or making crispy snacks. Boy, was I wrong. The air fryer uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food from all angles, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. That’s exactly what a good pot pie needs: a flaky, golden crust and a rich, creamy filling that doesn’t turn into a lukewarm mush.

How Air Fryers Work (And Why That Matters)

An air fryer isn’t actually a fryer—it’s a mini convection oven. A heating element warms the air, and a powerful fan circulates it around the food at high speed. This creates the Maillard reaction (that’s the fancy term for browning), which gives food that irresistible crispy texture without needing to submerge it in oil. For frozen pot pies, this means the crust crisps up beautifully, while the filling heats evenly from the outside in.

Think of it like this: in a regular oven, heat radiates from the top and bottom, and the middle of your pie might still be cold while the edges burn. The air fryer’s 360-degree airflow eliminates that problem. Plus, because it’s a smaller chamber, it preheats in seconds and cooks faster.

Benefits Over Oven and Microwave

• Speed: Cooks in 15–25 minutes vs. 40–50 minutes in the oven.
• Energy efficiency: Uses less electricity than heating a full-sized oven.
• Better texture: No soggy bottoms (a common microwave issue).
• Even cooking: No cold spots in the filling.
• Minimal cleanup: Just wipe down the basket—no baking sheet or foil to scrub.

I’ve tried the same brand of frozen pot pie in the oven, microwave, and air fryer. The air fryer version had a crust that was actually flaky, not just browned. The filling was steaming hot, and the edges didn’t burn. It was like upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Frozen Pot Pie in Air Fryer

Now that you’re sold on the idea, let’s get practical. Cooking frozen pot pie in an air fryer is simple, but there are a few key steps to get it just right. I’ve tested this method with everything from single-serve pies to larger family-sized versions, and here’s what works every time.

Step 1: Choose the Right Pot Pie

Not all frozen pot pies are created equal. Look for ones with a flaky pastry crust (not puff pastry, which can burn too fast) and a filling that isn’t overly watery. Popular brands like Marie Callender’s, Banquet, and Trader Joe’s work great. Avoid pies with plastic wrap or cardboard bases—they won’t fit in the basket and can melt or catch fire.

Pro tip: If your pie has a plastic cover, remove it completely. Some brands include a vented plastic dome for oven use, but it’s not air fryer-safe.

Step 2: Preheat Your Air Fryer (Optional but Helpful)

Preheating isn’t always necessary, but it helps with even cooking, especially if your air fryer is cold. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and let it run for 3–5 minutes. If you’re in a rush, you can skip this step—just add 2–3 extra minutes to the cook time.

Step 3: Place the Pie in the Basket

Place the frozen pot pie directly in the air fryer basket. If it’s a single-serve pie, it should fit snugly in the center. For larger pies, make sure it’s not touching the sides or the heating element (usually at the top). Overcrowding blocks airflow, leading to uneven cooking.

No basket liner? No problem. You can cook the pie directly on the basket’s mesh. If you’re worried about sticking, lightly spray the basket with oil or use a small piece of parchment paper with holes poked for airflow.

Step 4: Set the Time and Temperature

This is where most people go wrong. Don’t just guess—use these guidelines:

• Single-serve pie (8–10 oz): 18–22 minutes at 375°F.
• Family-sized pie (16–20 oz): 25–30 minutes at 375°F.

Start checking at the lower end of the time range. Insert a knife into the center—if it comes out hot and the crust is golden, you’re good. If the crust is browning too fast but the filling isn’t hot, cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Step 5: Let It Rest Before Serving

This is crucial. The filling will be extremely hot right after cooking. Let the pie sit in the basket (or on a plate) for 3–5 minutes. This allows the filling to settle, prevents burns, and lets the crust stay crisp instead of steaming itself soggy.

I learned this the hard way when I burned my tongue on a piping-hot chicken filling. Not fun. A little patience goes a long way.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even the best methods have pitfalls. I’ve made plenty of mistakes while testing this—burnt crusts, cold centers, and one memorable incident where I forgot to remove the plastic and nearly set off the smoke alarm. Here’s how to avoid the most common air fryer pot pie blunders.

Overcrowding the Basket

Air fryers need space for hot air to circulate. If you’re cooking multiple small pies, don’t stack them or crowd the basket. Cook them one at a time or in batches. I tried cooking two pies side by side once, and the one near the back stayed half-frozen while the front one burned. Not ideal.

Ignoring the Crust

The crust is the star of the show. If it browns too quickly, it’ll burn before the filling heats through. To prevent this:

• Use foil: Tent the pie loosely with aluminum foil after the first 10 minutes.
• Lower the temp: Try 360°F instead of 375°F for a slower, gentler cook.
• Brush with egg wash: For extra browning (optional), brush the crust with beaten egg before cooking.

Not Checking for Doneness

Don’t just set a timer and walk away. Frozen pot pies vary in size and filling thickness. Use a meat thermometer to check the center—it should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety. No thermometer? Cut a small slit in the crust and peek inside. The filling should be bubbling and steaming.

Skipping the Rest Time

As I mentioned earlier, skipping the rest time leads to a molten filling that can burn you and makes the crust soggy. Think of it like letting a steak rest after grilling—it’s worth the wait.

Using the Wrong Type of Pie

Some frozen pot pies are designed for the oven only. Check the packaging. If it says “do not microwave” or “bake only,” it might not be air fryer-friendly. Also, avoid pies with a lot of liquid filling—they can splatter or overflow. Stick to the classic chicken, beef, or turkey varieties.

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

Let’s settle the debate: is the air fryer really better than the oven for frozen pot pies? I tested the same brand (Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie) in both appliances to find out. Here’s how they stacked up:

Factor	Air Fryer	Oven
Cook Time	20 minutes	45 minutes
Preheat Time	3–5 minutes (optional)	10–15 minutes
Crust Texture	Flaky, golden, evenly crispy	Evenly browned, slightly softer
Filling Heat	Hot and steaming throughout	Hot, but edges slightly drier
Energy Use	Low (smaller appliance)	High (larger appliance)
Cleanup	Wipe basket or rinse parchment	Scrub baking sheet or foil
Space Needed	Compact (fits on countertop)	Requires full oven space

The air fryer wins on speed, texture, and convenience. The oven gives a more “traditional” result, but it’s slower and less efficient. For a quick weeknight dinner or a solo meal, I’ll always reach for the air fryer.

One thing to note: if you’re cooking for a crowd, the oven might still be better. Most air fryers can only handle one or two pies at a time. But for most households, the air fryer is the clear winner.

Creative Variations and Pro Tips

Once you master the basics, you can get creative. The air fryer is a versatile tool, and frozen pot pies are just the beginning. Here are some fun ways to level up your pot pie game.

Add Toppings After Cooking

The crust is already perfect, but the filling is a blank canvas. Try:

• A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese (add in the last 2 minutes of cooking to melt).
• Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or thyme) for a pop of flavor.
• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
• Hot sauce or sriracha for a spicy kick.

I love adding a little cheese to my pot pie—it melts into the filling and gives it a gooey, indulgent texture.

Make It a Meal

Pair your pot pie with simple sides to turn it into a full dinner. Try:

• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Roasted vegetables (air fryer carrots or Brussels sprouts cook in 15 minutes).
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls.

Pro tip: Cook the sides in the air fryer too! Just time them so everything finishes at the same time. For example, cook the pot pie first, then use the same basket for veggies while the pie rests.

Reheat Leftovers Like a Pro

Have leftover pot pie? Don’t microwave it—that’ll ruin the crust. Instead, reheat it in the air fryer:

• Place the pie in the basket.
• Cook at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, until heated through.
• Let it rest for 2 minutes before eating.

This method brings back the crispiness better than any other reheating technique. I’ve even reheated a pot pie two days later, and it tasted just as good as fresh.

Try Other Frozen Pies

Once you nail the pot pie, experiment with other frozen favorites:

• Shepherd’s pie (same cook time and temp).
• Chicken and dumplings (check the crust type first).
• Vegetable pies (great for vegetarians).

Just remember: the key is airflow. Make sure the pie isn’t too tall or dense, or it won’t cook evenly.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Should Try It

So, can you cook frozen pot pie in air fryer? Absolutely. And you should. It’s faster, crispier, and more convenient than the oven, and it beats the microwave hands-down. Whether you’re cooking for one or just want a quick, satisfying meal, the air fryer delivers.

I’ve cooked dozens of frozen pot pies in my air fryer, and I’ve never looked back. It’s become my go-to method for weeknight dinners, lazy Sundays, and even impromptu dinners for guests. There’s something magical about pulling a perfectly golden, steaming pot pie out of that little basket in under 25 minutes.

Just remember the basics: choose the right pie, don’t skip the rest time, and keep an eye on the crust. With a little practice, you’ll be making restaurant-quality pot pies at home—no preheating, no mess, no stress.

So go ahead, grab that frozen pot pie from the back of your freezer, dust off your air fryer, and give it a try. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you. And the next time someone asks, “Wait, can you cook frozen pot pie in air fryer?” you’ll have the answer—and a delicious example to prove it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook frozen pot pie in an air fryer without thawing?

Yes, you can cook a frozen pot pie in an air fryer directly—no thawing required. The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation ensures even cooking while keeping the crust crispy.

What temperature should you use to cook a frozen pot pie in an air fryer?

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for best results. Cook the pot pie for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

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

Cooking a frozen pot pie in an air fryer typically takes 20–25 minutes at 360°F. Check for a golden crust and bubbling filling to ensure it’s fully heated.

Do you need to preheat the air fryer for frozen pot pie?

Preheating the air fryer ensures consistent cooking and a crispier crust. Spend 3–5 minutes preheating to 360°F before adding the pot pie.

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

Yes, but ensure they’re not overcrowded to allow proper air circulation. Cook in batches if needed, or adjust time slightly for larger quantities.

Is the air fryer the best way to cook a frozen pot pie?

The air fryer delivers fast, crispy results compared to microwaving, with a texture closer to oven-baked. It’s ideal for achieving that perfect flaky crust in less time.