Can You Put Pot Pies in the Air Fryer A Crispy Game Changer

Yes, you can put pot pies in the air fryer—and it transforms them into a crispy, golden delight with perfectly flaky crusts and evenly heated fillings in half the time of conventional ovens. This quick, mess-free method ensures restaurant-quality results without the soggy bottom or uneven baking, making it a total game changer for frozen or homemade pot pies.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can air fry pot pies: Achieve crispy crusts without soggy bottoms.
• Preheat for best results: Ensures even cooking and perfect texture every time.
• Adjust time and temperature: Follow 350°F for 12-15 mins, checking halfway.
• Use oven-safe dishes: Prevents melting and maintains pie shape during cooking.
• No preheating needed for frozen: Cook directly, adding 2-3 mins to time.
• Brush with oil or egg wash: Enhances browning for a golden, flaky crust.

The Crispy Revelation: Can You Put Pot Pies in the Air Fryer?

Let’s be honest—there’s something magical about a warm, flaky pot pie. The golden crust, the savory filling, the way it melts in your mouth. But if you’re like me, you’ve probably spent more time than you’d like waiting for the oven to preheat, only to end up with a soggy bottom crust or a burnt top. Enter the air fryer, the kitchen gadget that’s been revolutionizing how we cook everything from fries to chicken wings. So, can you put pot pies in the air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes—and it might just change how you enjoy this classic comfort food forever.

I remember the first time I tried cooking a frozen pot pie in my air fryer. I was skeptical. Would the crust burn? Would the filling stay cold? But after just 15 minutes, I pulled out a perfectly golden, crispy pot pie with a piping-hot interior. It was a game-changer. No more waiting 45 minutes for the oven to do its thing. No more uneven baking. Just quick, delicious results every time. If you’ve ever wondered whether the air fryer could handle pot pies, buckle up—you’re in for a treat.

Why the Air Fryer is Perfect for Pot Pies

How Air Fryers Work Their Magic

The air fryer uses rapid hot air circulation to crisp and cook food, mimicking the results of deep frying with little to no oil. For pot pies, this means you get a flaky, golden crust without the mess of oil or the long wait for your oven. The circulating air ensures even cooking, so your filling heats through while the crust stays crisp—no more soggy bottoms!

Think of it like this: the air fryer is like a mini convection oven, but faster and more efficient. It’s especially great for frozen foods, like pot pies, because the high heat quickly penetrates the filling while the outer crust gets that perfect crunch. It’s a win-win.

The Benefits of Air Frying Pot Pies

• Speed: No preheating required. Most pot pies cook in 12-20 minutes, depending on size and model.
• Energy Efficiency: Air fryers use less electricity than ovens, saving you money and reducing heat in your kitchen.
• Even Cooking: No more burnt edges or undercooked centers. The air fryer’s design ensures consistent results.
• Healthier Option: Less oil means fewer calories and a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor.

Here’s a relatable scenario: It’s a busy weeknight, and you’re craving comfort food. Instead of waiting 30 minutes for the oven to preheat and another 25 for the pot pie to bake, you toss it in the air fryer and set the timer. While it cooks, you’re free to prep sides, help the kids with homework, or just relax. By the time you’re ready to eat, your pot pie is golden, crispy, and ready to devour.

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

Prepping Your Pot Pie

Before you dive in, there are a few key steps to ensure your pot pie turns out perfectly:

• Check the Packaging: Most frozen pot pies have air fryer instructions. If not, follow general guidelines (more on that below).
• No Need to Thaw: Air fryers work great with frozen pot pies. Thawing can actually make the crust soggy.
• Grease the Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.

Pro tip: If you’re using a deep-dish pot pie (like the kind with a full top crust), you may need to cover the top with foil halfway through to prevent burning. This keeps the crust golden while ensuring the filling heats through.

Air Fryer Settings and Timing

Here’s a general guide for cooking frozen pot pies in the air fryer:

Pot Pie Size	Temperature	Time	Notes
7-8 oz (single-serving)	350°F (175°C)	12-15 minutes	No foil needed
10-12 oz (family-sized)	350°F (175°C)	15-20 minutes	Cover with foil after 10 minutes
Deep-dish or homemade	325°F (160°C)	20-25 minutes	Check internal temperature (165°F)

Example: I tested a 7.5 oz frozen chicken pot pie in my 5.8-quart air fryer. At 350°F, it was ready in 14 minutes—perfectly crispy on the outside, hot and creamy on the inside. No foil needed!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix common pot pie problems:

• Burnt Crust? Lower the temperature by 25°F or cover with foil halfway through.
• Undercooked Filling? Add 2-3 minutes to the cook time. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F.
• Soggy Bottom? Preheat the air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding the pot pie. This jumpstarts the crisping process.

Remember: Every air fryer is different. Start with the recommended time and adjust as needed. It’s better to undercook slightly and add time than to overcook and end up with a dry, crumbly pie.

Homemade Pot Pies: A Crispy Upgrade

Why Air Fry Homemade Pot Pies?

Store-bought pot pies are convenient, but homemade versions let you control the ingredients, portion size, and flavor. And guess what? They cook even better in the air fryer. The smaller size of most homemade pot pies (think individual ramekins or muffin tins) makes them perfect for air frying.

I’ve made mini pot pies in muffin tins for dinner parties, and the air fryer turns them into crispy, crowd-pleasing appetizers. Plus, you can customize the filling—think vegetarian, seafood, or even dessert pot pies!

Tips for Perfect Homemade Air Fryer Pot Pies

• Use a Crisp Crust: Puff pastry or pie crust works best. Brush the top with egg wash for extra shine.
• Thick Filling: Avoid watery fillings (they can make the crust soggy). Use a slurry of cornstarch or flour to thicken.
• Size Matters: Stick to 6-8 oz per pie for even cooking. Larger pies may need foil or lower temperatures.

Try this: Mix shredded rotisserie chicken, frozen veggies, and cream of chicken soup for a quick filling. Top with puff pastry, seal the edges, and air fry at 350°F for 15 minutes. Boom—homemade pot pie in half the time it would take in the oven.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Air Fryer Pot Pie Hacks

Gluten-Free and Healthier Options

If you’re gluten-free or watching calories, the air fryer is your new best friend. Swap traditional crust for gluten-free puff pastry or even a cauliflower crust (yes, really!). For a lighter version, use low-fat milk in the filling and skip the butter in the crust.

Example: I made a vegetarian pot pie with a cauliflower crust and a filling of lentils, mushrooms, and coconut milk. Air fried at 325°F for 18 minutes, it was crispy, hearty, and guilt-free.

Sweet Pot Pies? Yes, Please!

Who says pot pies have to be savory? The air fryer is perfect for mini sweet pies too. Try:

• Pumpkin Pie: Use a spiced pumpkin filling and top with puff pastry. Air fry at 325°F for 12 minutes.
• Apple Pie: Fill a ramekin with cinnamon apples and top with a crumb topping. Air fry at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Pro tip: For sweet pies, lower the temperature slightly to prevent burning the crust. And don’t forget a scoop of ice cream on top!

The Verdict: Is the Air Fryer a Pot Pie Game-Changer?

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros:
  • Faster than oven cooking
  • Perfectly crispy crust every time
  • Energy-efficient and kitchen-friendly
  • Great for both frozen and homemade pies
• Cons:
  • Size limitations (larger pies may not fit)
  • Requires occasional foil covering
  • Not all brands cook equally well (test and adjust)

After countless tests—from frozen classics to homemade experiments—I can confidently say the air fryer is a game-changer for pot pies. It’s faster, crispier, and just plain more convenient than the oven. Sure, there’s a learning curve, but once you nail the timing, you’ll never go back.

Final Tips for Success

• Experiment: Try different brands and recipes. Some pot pies cook better at lower temps.
• Invest in Accessories: Silicone muffin liners or parchment paper can make cleanup easier.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook one pot pie at a time for even results. If you’re cooking multiple, do it in batches.

At the end of the day, the air fryer isn’t just for fries and wings. It’s a versatile tool that can transform even the most classic comfort foods—like pot pies—into quick, crispy, and delicious meals. So go ahead, give it a try. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put pot pies in the air fryer without ruining the crust?

Yes! The air fryer’s circulating heat crisps the crust perfectly while keeping the filling moist. Just avoid overcrowding and use the recommended temperature (usually 350°F–375°F) to prevent sogginess.

How long should you cook a frozen pot pie in an air fryer?

Most frozen pot pies take 15–20 minutes at 360°F, flipping halfway through. Always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

What’s the best way to prevent a pot pie from drying out in the air fryer?

Brush the crust with butter or egg wash before cooking to lock in moisture. If reheating, cover the edges with foil to avoid over-browning.

Can you put pot pies in the air fryer if they’re not frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh or thawed pot pies need 8–12 minutes at 350°F. Reduce time slightly compared to frozen ones to avoid overcooking the filling.

Do air fryer pot pies cook evenly compared to an oven?

Yes, the air fryer’s rapid air circulation ensures even browning. For extra insurance, rotate the pie halfway through cooking.

What’s the ideal air fryer temperature for pot pies?

Most pot pies thrive at 350°F–375°F. Lower temps (350°F) work best for thicker crusts, while 375°F delivers extra crispiness for thinner crusts.