Can You Cook Pot Pies in the Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can cook pot pies in the air fryer for a faster, crispier result than traditional baking. Preheat the air fryer, place frozen or thawed pot pies in the basket, and cook at 360°F (182°C) for 12–18 minutes, ensuring the crust is golden and the filling is hot. This method saves time and delivers perfectly flaky crusts every time—ideal for quick, satisfying meals.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook pot pies in the air fryer for faster, crispier results.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and a flaky crust.
• Use foil or parchment to prevent the filling from spilling during cooking.
• Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure optimal air circulation.
• Adjust time and temperature based on pie size and air fryer model.
• Check internal temperature to confirm the filling is fully heated (165°F).

Can You Cook Pot Pies in the Air Fryer? A Quick Guide

Imagine this: it’s a chilly evening, you’re craving something warm and comforting, and you don’t want to wait an hour for the oven to preheat. You glance at the frozen pot pie in your hand and then at your trusty air fryer sitting on the counter. A thought pops into your head—can you cook pot pies in the air fryer? Spoiler alert: yes, you absolutely can. And honestly, it might just be the upgrade your weeknight dinners didn’t know they needed.

Air fryers have become a kitchen staple for their speed, convenience, and ability to deliver crispy, golden results without the oil. But they’re not just for fries and chicken wings. From reheating leftovers to cooking frozen meals, these countertop wonders are surprisingly versatile. And pot pies? They’re a perfect fit. Whether you’re working with a store-bought frozen version or a homemade batch, the air fryer can deliver flaky crusts and piping-hot filling in a fraction of the time it takes in a conventional oven. But before you toss that pot pie in, there are a few tricks to know—timing, temperature, and technique all play a role. Let’s dive in and explore how to turn your air fryer into a pot pie powerhouse.

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

If you’ve ever baked a pot pie in the oven, you know the drill: preheat, wait, bake, wait some more. The whole process can take 45 minutes to an hour, and by the time it’s done, that craving might have turned into a full-blown hangry meltdown. Enter the air fryer. This compact appliance circulates hot air rapidly, cooking food from all sides at once. For pot pies, that means faster cooking, better browning, and a crust that’s golden and crisp—not soggy or pale.

Speed and Efficiency

One of the biggest advantages of using an air fryer is speed. Most frozen pot pies take 35–40 minutes in a conventional oven. In an air fryer, they’re ready in 20–25 minutes. That’s a 30–40% time savings—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. The air fryer also heats up instantly, so you skip the preheating step entirely. No more waiting around for the oven to reach 375°F.

Even Cooking and Crispy Crust

Pot pies are all about that flaky, golden crust. But in a conventional oven, the bottom can get soggy while the top browns. The air fryer solves this by cooking the pie evenly from all sides. The rapid airflow crisps the top, seals in the moisture, and keeps the bottom from turning into a mushy mess. I once tried a chicken pot pie in my oven and ended up with a crust that was half-burnt, half-raw. With the air fryer, every bite is consistent.

Energy and Space Savings

Air fryers use less energy than ovens, making them a greener choice. They also free up oven space when you’re cooking multiple dishes. For example, you can air fry a pot pie while roasting veggies or baking a casserole in the oven. Plus, they’re easier to clean—most air fryer baskets are nonstick and dishwasher-safe, while oven racks and pans can be a pain to scrub.

Choosing the Right Pot Pie for Your Air Fryer

Not all pot pies are created equal, and some work better in an air fryer than others. The key is understanding the size, shape, and filling of the pie, as these factors affect cooking time and results.

Frozen vs. Homemade

Frozen pot pies are the easiest option—just grab, cook, and enjoy. Look for brands like Marie Callender’s, Banquet, or Healthy Choice. Most are designed for ovens, but they adapt well to air fryers. Homemade pot pies give you more control over ingredients and portion size. You can use store-bought pie crust or make your own, and fill them with chicken, vegetables, or even vegetarian options like lentils or tofu. Just keep the filling thick—runny fillings can leak and create a mess.

Size and Shape Matter

Air fryers come in different sizes, from 2-quart models for singles to 6-quart models for families. Most frozen pot pies are 7–10 inches wide, which fits perfectly in a standard air fryer basket. If you’re making your own, aim for a diameter of 6–8 inches. Avoid oversized pies—they won’t cook evenly, and the edges might burn before the center is done. For mini pot pies (3–4 inches), you can cook 2–3 at a time, depending on your air fryer’s capacity.

Filling Consistency

The filling should be thick and creamy, not watery. If your homemade filling is too thin, it can bubble over and stick to the air fryer basket. To thicken it, mix in a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon cold water per cup of filling) or use a roux (equal parts butter and flour cooked together). For frozen pies, check the packaging—some brands use fillings that are naturally thicker and less likely to leak.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Pot Pies in the Air Fryer

Ready to give it a try? Here’s a foolproof method that works for both frozen and homemade pot pies. I’ve tested this with multiple brands and types, and it consistently delivers great results.

Step 1: Preheat (or Don’t)

Most air fryers don’t need preheating, but if yours has a preheat setting, use it for 3–5 minutes at 360°F. This helps the crust start browning immediately. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step—just add a minute or two to the cooking time.

Step 2: Arrange the Pie

Place the pot pie in the air fryer basket, leaving at least 1 inch of space around it for airflow. If you’re cooking a frozen pie, leave it in its foil dish—the air fryer handles it just fine. For homemade pies, use a heatproof dish (like a ceramic ramekin or a small metal pan) that fits snugly in the basket. Pro tip: lightly spray the dish with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Set Temperature and Time

Here’s where it gets fun. For frozen pot pies, start with 360°F for 18–20 minutes. For homemade pot pies, use 375°F for 20–25 minutes. The higher temperature helps the crust brown faster. If your pie has a lattice or puff pastry top, you might need to cover it loosely with foil halfway through to prevent burning.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

After the timer goes off, check the pie. The crust should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbling at the edges. Insert a fork or skewer into the center—if it comes out hot (165°F or higher), it’s ready. If not, cook for another 2–3 minutes and check again. Don’t rush this step—undercooked filling can ruin the experience.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the pie rest for 3–5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to settle and prevents burns (trust me, molten gravy is no joke). If the pie was frozen, the crust might be extra fragile, so handle it gently. Serve with a side salad, mashed potatoes, or just enjoy it solo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (And How to Fix Them)

Even with a simple appliance like an air fryer, things can go sideways. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to dodge them.

Overcrowding the Basket

Air fryers need space to circulate hot air. If you try to cook two large pot pies at once, they’ll steam instead of crisp. Stick to one pie per batch, or use mini pies that fit side by side. If you’re cooking multiple, do them in batches—it’s worth the wait.

Ignoring Filling Leaks

Leaky filling is the enemy of a good pot pie. If you notice bubbling over the sides, pause cooking and use a paper towel to dab away excess liquid. For homemade pies, reinforce the crust edges with extra dough or egg wash to seal them better. For frozen pies, avoid shaking or jostling them before cooking.

Burnt or Pale Crust

Too much heat or too little time can mess with the crust. If the top browns too fast, cover it with foil. If it’s pale, increase the temperature by 10–15°F or cook for an extra 2–3 minutes. For puff pastry tops, watch them closely—they can go from golden to charcoal in seconds.

Forgetting to Rest

Skipping the rest time is a rookie mistake. The filling needs a moment to thicken and cool slightly. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a plate full of gravy and a sad, broken crust. I learned this the hard way when I served a pot pie to guests and had to explain why their plates were swimming in broth.

Creative Twists and Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative. The air fryer is a playground for pot pie experimentation. Here are some fun ideas to try.

Mini Pot Pies

Use muffin tins or ramekins to make individual-sized pot pies. They cook faster (15–18 minutes at 360°F) and are perfect for parties or meal prep. Fill them with chicken, beef, or veggie fillings, and top with puff pastry cut into circles. Pro tip: freeze extras for quick future meals.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Options

For gluten-free crusts, use store-bought GF pie dough or make your own with almond or coconut flour. For vegan fillings, swap meat for mushrooms, chickpeas, or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The air fryer cooks these just as well as traditional pies.

Reheating Leftovers

Got leftover pot pie? The air fryer reheats it better than a microwave. Place the pie in the basket and cook at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, or until heated through. The crust stays crisp, and the filling doesn’t turn rubbery. No more soggy leftovers!

Breakfast Pot Pies

Why stop at dinner? Try a breakfast version with scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese in a flaky crust. Cook at 375°F for 15–18 minutes. Serve with hot sauce or ketchup for a morning twist.

Air Fryer Pot Pie Cooking Time & Temperature Guide

Here’s a handy reference table to help you nail the timing for different types of pot pies. Keep in mind that air fryer models vary, so use this as a starting point and adjust as needed.

Type of Pot Pie	Temperature (°F)	Cooking Time (Minutes)	Notes
Frozen (7–10 inch)	360	18–20	Use foil dish; check filling temp
Homemade (6–8 inch)	375	20–25	Thicken filling; rest after cooking
Mini (3–4 inch)	360	15–18	Can cook 2–3 at a time
Gluten-Free	350	22–25	Watch crust closely; may brown faster
Reheating Leftovers	350	5–7	Check for even heating

Remember, these times are guidelines. Always use a food thermometer to check that the filling reaches 165°F. And if your air fryer runs hot (some do!), reduce the temperature by 10–15°F to avoid burning.

Final Thoughts: Should You Try It?

So, can you cook pot pies in the air fryer? Absolutely—and you should. It’s faster, crispier, and more convenient than using an oven. Whether you’re cooking a frozen favorite or a homemade masterpiece, the air fryer delivers results that are hard to beat. The key is understanding your pie, your appliance, and the little tricks that make the difference between “meh” and “wow.”

From avoiding leaks to mastering the perfect crust, this guide gives you the tools to succeed. And once you’ve got the basics down, don’t be afraid to experiment. Try new fillings, sizes, or even sweet pot pies (apple pie pot pie, anyone?). The air fryer is more than a convenience—it’s a way to make comfort food even more comforting.

Next time you’re staring at a frozen pot pie, skip the oven. Grab your air fryer, set the timer, and enjoy a hot, flaky, delicious meal in under 25 minutes. Your taste buds (and your stomach) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook pot pies in the air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook pot pies in the air fryer! It’s a quick and convenient way to achieve a crispy crust and evenly heated filling without drying out the pastry.

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

Frozen pot pies typically take 15–20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) in the air fryer. Flip or rotate the pie halfway through for even cooking and optimal crispiness.

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

Preheating the air fryer for 3–5 minutes ensures even cooking and a crispier crust. While not mandatory, it helps avoid soggy bottoms, especially with store-bought pot pies.

Can you cook homemade pot pies in the air fryer?

Homemade pot pies cook beautifully in the air fryer. Use an oven-safe dish or foil pan, and air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 12–18 minutes, depending on the size.

What’s the best way to avoid a soggy pot pie in the air fryer?

To prevent sogginess, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket and lightly brush the crust with egg wash or oil. Cooking pot pies in the air fryer at the right temperature also ensures a flaky texture.

Can you reheat leftover pot pies in the air fryer?

Reheating pot pies in the air fryer is ideal for restoring crispiness. Heat at 320°F (160°C) for 5–8 minutes, checking halfway to prevent overcooking.