Can You Cook Frozen Pot Pies in an Air Fryer Fast and Easy

Yes, you can cook frozen pot pies in an air fryer for a faster, crispier result than traditional oven baking—no thawing required. Simply preheat, place the pie in the basket, and cook at 360°F (182°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning. Enjoy a golden, flaky crust and hot, savory filling with minimal effort.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Cook frozen pot pies in an air fryer safely and efficiently.
• Preheat for crispiness: Always preheat the air fryer for a flaky crust.
• Adjust time and temp: Use 360°F for 20-25 minutes, checking halfway.
• No thawing needed: Cook directly from frozen to save time and effort.
• Use foil if needed: Prevent over-browning by tenting crust with foil.
• Check internal temp: Ensure filling reaches 165°F for food safety.

Can You Cook Frozen Pot Pies in an Air Fryer Fast and Easy?

Let’s be honest—there are days when cooking feels like climbing a mountain. You’re tired, maybe a little hangry, and the last thing you want is to wait 45 minutes for dinner. That’s when frozen pot pies come to the rescue. They’re comforting, familiar, and usually ready in under an hour. But what if I told you there’s a way to make them even faster and easier? Enter the air fryer.

As someone who’s juggled work, family, and the eternal question of “What’s for dinner?”, I’ve become a bit of an air fryer enthusiast. I’ve tried everything from frozen fries to chicken tenders, and yes—even frozen pot pies. The results? Surprisingly delicious, with a crispy crust and a hot, creamy filling that rivals the oven. So, can you cook frozen pot pies in an air fryer fast and easy? The short answer is absolutely. But like any kitchen shortcut, there are a few tricks to getting it just right. Let’s dive in.

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

Frozen pot pies are a staple in many households. They’re affordable, convenient, and packed with nostalgia. But traditional oven baking has its downsides: long preheating, uneven cooking, and that dreaded soggy crust. The air fryer solves all these problems—and then some.

Speed and Efficiency

One of the biggest advantages of using an air fryer is speed. While your oven is still warming up (and wasting energy), your air fryer is ready in minutes. Most frozen pot pies cook in 20–25 minutes in an air fryer, compared to 40–50 minutes in a conventional oven. That’s a 50% time savings—no small thing when you’re hangry.

Energy Efficiency

Air fryers use less energy than ovens. Since they’re smaller, they heat up faster and retain heat better. This means lower electricity bills and a smaller carbon footprint. If you’re trying to be more eco-conscious in the kitchen, this is a win-win.

Texture and Flavor

Here’s where the air fryer really shines. The rapid circulation of hot air creates a crispy, golden crust that’s hard to achieve in a conventional oven. The filling stays hot and creamy without drying out. Think of it as a hybrid between a baked pot pie and a deep-fried one—without the oil.

No Preheating Required (Usually)

Many air fryer recipes skip the preheating step, especially for frozen foods. This saves even more time. Just pop the pot pie in, set the timer, and walk away. No babysitting required.

Pro tip: If your air fryer has a preheat function, use it for the first batch. But for subsequent pies, you can usually skip it. The residual heat is often enough to get things started.

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

Now that you’re sold on the benefits, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Cooking frozen pot pies in an air fryer is simple, but a few key steps make all the difference.

Step 1: Choose the Right Pot Pie

Not all frozen pot pies are created equal. For best results, go for the standard 7–10 oz size (like Marie Callender’s or Banquet). Avoid mini pot pies or those with extra-large crusts—they may not fit or cook evenly.

Why size matters: Air fryers have limited space. A pot pie that’s too big will block airflow, leading to uneven cooking. A pie that’s too small might dry out before the filling heats through.

Step 2: Preheat (Optional but Recommended)

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes. This ensures consistent cooking from the start. If you’re in a hurry, you can skip this, but the crust might not be as crispy.

Step 3: Place the Pot Pie in the Basket

Remove the pot pie from its foil tray (if it has one) and place it directly in the air fryer basket. Do not cover the top—the crust needs exposure to hot air to crisp up.

Note: Some brands (like Lean Cuisine) come in microwave-safe trays. These are fine to use, but avoid metal trays unless your air fryer specifically allows them.

Step 4: Cook in Two Stages

Here’s the secret to perfect pot pies: two-stage cooking.

• First 15 minutes at 350°F (175°C): This heats the filling and starts crisping the crust.
• Last 5–10 minutes at 375°F (190°C): This boosts the heat to finish crisping the crust without overcooking the filling.

After 15 minutes, check the pot pie. If the crust is browning too fast, you can lower the temperature to 360°F (180°C) for the last few minutes.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Once the timer goes off, let the pot pie rest for 2–3 minutes. This allows the filling to settle and prevents burns. Trust me—this step is worth it. I’ve burned my mouth more times than I’d like to admit by diving in too soon.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Use tongs or a spatula to transfer the pot pie to a plate. Serve with a side salad, steamed veggies, or even a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.

Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

Cooking frozen pot pies in an air fryer is easy, but a few insider tips can take your game to the next level.

Use Parchment Paper (Optional)

If you’re worried about sticking or messy cleanup, line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. Just make sure it doesn’t block the airflow. Cut a small circle to fit the pot pie and poke a few holes for ventilation.

Rotate the Pot Pie

Not all air fryers heat evenly. If your pot pie has a “hot spot,” rotate it 180 degrees halfway through cooking. This ensures even browning.

Don’t Overcrowd

Air fryers work by circulating hot air. If you try to cook two pot pies at once, they’ll block the airflow and cook unevenly. Stick to one at a time unless your air fryer is large enough (6 quarts or more).

Add a Splash of Water (For Extra Moisture)

If you’re cooking a second pot pie and the basket feels dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of water to the bottom. This creates steam, keeping the crust from drying out.

Check Internal Temperature

The USDA recommends cooking frozen pot pies to 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Use a meat thermometer to check the center of the filling. If you don’t have one, pierce the pie with a fork—the filling should be steaming hot with no cold spots.

Experiment with Toppings

Want to elevate your pot pie? Try these easy upgrades:

• Sprinkle with shredded cheese during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
• Top with fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) after cooking.
• Drizzle with hot sauce or gravy for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best air fryer users make mistakes. Here are the most common ones—and how to avoid them.

Overcooking the Crust

Air fryers are powerful. If you leave the pot pie in too long, the crust can burn. Set a timer and check it every 5 minutes during the last 10 minutes.

Using the Wrong Temperature

Too hot? The crust burns before the filling heats through. Too low? The filling stays cold while the crust dries out. Stick to the two-stage method for best results.

Forgetting to Rest

I know—you’re hungry. But that 2-minute rest is crucial. It lets the filling settle and prevents burns. Think of it as a mini meditation before your meal.

Ignoring the Filling Temperature

A golden crust doesn’t always mean the filling is hot. Always check the internal temperature or test with a fork. Food safety first!

Using Metal Trays (Unless Allowed)

Some air fryers warn against metal in the basket. Check your manual. If it’s not allowed, transfer the pot pie to a microwave-safe dish or cook it directly on the basket.

Air Fryer vs. Oven: A Head-to-Head Comparison

How does air frying stack up against traditional oven baking? Let’s break it down.

Cooking Time

Air fryer: 20–25 minutes (no preheat).
Oven: 40–50 minutes (with preheat).
Winner: Air fryer (saves 20+ minutes).

Texture

Air fryer: Crispy, golden crust; creamy, hot filling.
Oven: Softer crust (can be soggy); even but less exciting.
Winner: Air fryer (for texture lovers).

Energy Use

Air fryer: ~1,500 watts (uses less energy overall).
Oven: ~2,400–5,000 watts (higher energy draw).
Winner: Air fryer (more eco-friendly).

Convenience

Air fryer: No preheating, easy cleanup, compact.
Oven: Requires preheating, longer cleanup, bulky.
Winner: Air fryer (for busy households).

Versatility

Oven: Can cook multiple pot pies at once (if space allows).
Air fryer: Limited to one or two at a time.
Winner: Oven (for large families).

Overall, the air fryer wins for speed, texture, and energy efficiency. But if you’re feeding a crowd, the oven might still be your best bet.

Data Table: Cooking Times and Temperatures for Popular Brands

Brand	Size (oz)	Air Fryer Time (min)	Air Fryer Temp (°F)	Oven Time (min)	Oven Temp (°F)
Marie Callender’s	10	22–25	350→375	45–50	400
Banquet	7	20–22	350→375	40–45	400
Lean Cuisine	7.5	20–23	350→375	35–40	375
Healthy Choice	7	22–25	350→375	40–45	400
Store Brand	7–10	20–25	350→375	40–50	400

Note: Times are approximate. Always check internal temperature for food safety.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

So, can you cook frozen pot pies in an air fryer fast and easy? The answer is a resounding yes. You’ll save time, energy, and end up with a tastier result than the oven. The crust is crispier, the filling is hotter, and cleanup is a breeze.

Is it perfect for every situation? Not quite. If you’re cooking for a large family, the oven might still be more practical. And if you’re a purist who loves the softer, more traditional crust, the air fryer might feel like overkill. But for most of us—busy parents, students, or anyone craving comfort food in a hurry—the air fryer is a total game-changer.

Next time you’re staring down a frozen pot pie, give the air fryer a try. Follow the steps, heed the tips, and avoid the common mistakes. I promise you’ll be amazed at how fast and easy it is. And who knows? You might just find yourself reaching for the air fryer every time.

After all, good food doesn’t have to be hard. Sometimes, it just needs a little hot air and a whole lot of love.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook frozen pot pies in an air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook frozen pot pies 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.

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 18–25 minutes at 360°F (182°C), depending on the size and thickness. Flip the pot pie halfway through for even browning and consistent heating.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer for frozen pot pies?

Preheating your air fryer for 3–5 minutes at 360°F (182°C) ensures even cooking and a crispier crust. While not mandatory, it helps avoid undercooked centers and improves the overall texture of your frozen pot pie.

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

Yes, but make sure they’re not overcrowded—leave space between each for proper air circulation. Cooking two pot pies at once may add 2–5 minutes to the cook time, so monitor them closely.

What’s the best way to prevent a soggy crust when air frying frozen pot pies?

To avoid a soggy crust, lightly spray the top with oil and avoid stacking or covering the pot pie during cooking. Air fryers naturally circulate hot air for crispiness, but flipping halfway enhances browning.

Can you cook store-bought frozen pot pies in an air fryer without adjusting settings?

Most store-bought frozen pot pies can be cooked in an air fryer using a slightly lower temperature (360°F vs. 400°F in the oven). Adjust the time to 18–25 minutes and check for a golden crust and bubbling filling to ensure doneness.