Learn how to cook frozen pot pies in the air fryer for a perfectly crispy crust with hot, creamy filling in no time! Delicious comfort food!
Cooking a frozen pot pie in an air fryer is a game-changer for anyone craving comfort food without the long wait or the hassle of heating up the oven. The air fryer delivers a golden, flaky crust and a piping-hot, creamy filling in a fraction of the time it takes to bake in a traditional oven. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone looking for an easy weeknight meal, this method is quick, efficient, and produces consistently delicious results. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process, share tips for perfecting your pot pie, address common concerns, and suggest ways to elevate the meal.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Frozen Pot Pies?
The air fryer’s rapid air circulation technology cooks food evenly and quickly, making it ideal for frozen pot pies. Unlike a microwave, which can leave the crust soggy, or an oven, which takes longer and heats up your kitchen, the air fryer strikes a perfect balance. It crisps the crust while ensuring the filling is heated through, all in about 20-25 minutes for most individual-sized pies. Plus, it’s energy-efficient and requires minimal cleanup, making it a practical choice for busy households.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking a Frozen Pot Pie in an Air Fryer
Here’s how to get that perfect pot pie using your air fryer. This guide is tailored for a standard 10-ounce frozen pot pie, such as those from Marie Callender’s or Banquet, but you can adjust based on size or brand.
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps the crust crisp up nicely. If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat setting, simply run it empty at the desired temperature for a few minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Pot Pie
Remove the frozen pot pie from its packaging, but keep it in its aluminum foil tray. This tray is safe for air fryer use and helps contain any potential spills. To prevent the crust from burning, cover the top loosely with aluminum foil, folding it gently over the edges. Be careful not to press the foil too tightly, as this can restrict airflow and affect cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Pot Pie
Place the pot pie in the center of the air fryer basket, ensuring it sits in a single layer for even cooking. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. For smaller pies, like Banquet’s 7-ounce versions, start with 15-18 minutes. Halfway through, check the pie to ensure the crust isn’t browning too quickly. If it is, adjust the foil to cover more of the top.
Step 4: Crisp the Crust
After the initial cooking time, carefully remove the foil to allow the crust to brown. Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 2-5 minutes, depending on how golden you want the crust. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the filling has reached 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once done, let the pot pie rest in the air fryer basket (with the air fryer turned off) for 5 minutes. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to cut and serve without burning your mouth. Carefully remove the pie using tongs or a spatula, as the tray will be hot. Serve with a side of crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Pot Pie
- Prevent Burning: If your air fryer tends to cook hot, lower the temperature to 325°F (165°C) and extend the cooking time slightly. Tenting with foil during the first half of cooking is key to protecting the crust.
- Check Fit: Ensure your pot pie fits comfortably in the air fryer basket. For smaller air fryers, you may need to cook one pie at a time or use smaller pies.
- Enhance the Flavor: Brush the crust with melted butter or an egg wash before the final crisping stage for an extra golden, flavorful finish. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt or dried herbs like thyme for a gourmet touch.
- Quick Method: For an even faster option, microwave the pot pie for 5-6 minutes (check package instructions for exact timing), then transfer to the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 2-3 minutes to crisp the crust. This hybrid method sacrifices a bit of evenness but saves time.
- Don’t Thaw: Cook the pot pie directly from frozen. Thawing can lead to a mushy crust, especially on the bottom, which ruins the texture.
Common Questions and Concerns
Can I cook different types of pot pies in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Whether it’s chicken, turkey, beef, or a vegetarian option like Marie Callender’s Gardein Chik’n Pot Pie, the method remains the same. Just adjust cooking times based on size and check the internal temperature.
What if my pot pie has a bottom crust?
For pies with a bottom crust, consider flipping the pie upside down for the last few minutes of cooking (after removing it from the foil tray) to crisp the bottom. Be cautious, as the filling may spill if not handled carefully.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover pot pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place it back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
Why does my crust burn?
Burning can happen if the air fryer’s heating element is too close to the pie or if the temperature is too high. Use foil to shield the crust initially, and reduce the temperature by 20°F (10°C) if your model runs hot. Rotate the pie halfway through if your air fryer has uneven heat distribution.
Side Dish Ideas to Complement Your Pot Pie
While a pot pie is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with simple sides can elevate the experience. Try these ideas:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the rich filling and flaky crust.
- Broccolini or Asparagus: Lightly sautéed or grilled greens add a fresh, crunchy contrast.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra filling.
- Simple Salad: A tangy vinaigrette-dressed salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers balances the richness of the pie.
Brand Recommendations: Popular brands like Marie Callender’s and Banquet are widely available and cook well in the air fryer. For a vegetarian option, try Amy’s or Gardein. Check your local grocery store’s frozen section for deals, especially during fall and winter when pot pies are a seasonal favorite.
For an easy one person meal, try preparing a frozen pot pie in your air fryer. Air frying cooks it to perfection is less time than an oven.
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