Individual pot pies cook surprisingly well in an air fryer, producing a flaky crust and bubbling hot filling in minutes. If you want to know how to cook pot pies in the air fryer, the process is simpler than you think. You do not need a full size oven or a microwave that leaves the crust soggy.
Air fryers use fast moving hot air to crisp the top and heat the inside at the same time. That means you get a golden crust and a steamy center without waiting 45 minutes. This guide covers frozen store bought pies, homemade ones, and even mini sizes.
Why Air Fryer Pot Pies Work So Well
A standard oven takes a long time to preheat and even longer to bake a pot pie through. The air fryer solves both problems. Its small chamber gets hot fast and stays hot.
The moving air hits the crust from all sides. This drys the surface just enough to make it flaky instead of doughy. Meanwhile the filling heats evenly because the pie sits close to the heating element.
- Faster cooking time than a regular oven
- Crisper crust with no soggy bottom
- Less energy used for one or two pies
- No need to thaw for many brands
One thing to keep in mind is size. A large family size pot pie will not fit in most air fryer baskets. Stick with individual pies or mini ones for best results.
How To Cook Pot Pies In The Air Fryer
Follow these steps for a frozen single serve pot pie. This is the most common type people cook this way.
Step 1: Check The Size And Fit
Take the pie out of the box and remove any plastic wrap. Place it in your air fryer basket to see if the lid closes without touching the top. If it touches, you have a problem.
If the pie is too tall, you can slide it into the basket at an angle or use a smaller pie. Never force the drawer closed. The crust will stick to the heating element and burn.
Step 2: Preheat The Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Let it run empty for 3 to 5 minutes. Preheating helps the bottom crust start crisping right away.
Some cheaper models do not have a preheat button. Just run it empty on the bake or air fry setting for a few minutes.
Step 3: Place The Pie In The Basket
Put the pot pie directly on the basket tray. Do not use a paper liner unless it is perforated. A solid liner blocks airflow and makes the bottom soggy.
If you are cooking two small pies, leave space between them. Crowding steams the crust instead of crisping it.
Step 4: Cook At The Right Temperature And Time
Cook frozen individual pot pies at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 25 minutes. The exact time depends on the size and your air fryer model.
Here is a quick guide for common sizes:
- Mini pot pies (4 oz): 12 to 15 minutes
- Standard individual pies (7 to 10 oz): 20 to 25 minutes
- Large single pies (16 oz): 30 to 35 minutes
- Homemade pies (already chilled): 15 to 20 minutes
Always check the package for a suggested oven time and reduce it by about 20 percent as a starting point.
Step 5: Check For Doneness
At the 15 minute mark, pull the basket out and look at the crust. It should be golden brown. If it is still pale, push it back in for 5 more minutes.
To check the inside, stick a knife or skewer into the center. If it slides in with no resistance and comes out hot, the filling is ready. You can also use an instant read thermometer. The center should read at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 6: Let It Rest Before Eating
Take the pie out and let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes. The filling is extremely hot and will burn your mouth if you bite in right away.
Resting also lets the sauce thicken slightly so it does not run all over the plate.
Tips For Homemade Pot Pies In The Air Fryer
If you make your own pot pies, you can still use the air fryer. The rules change a little because the filling is already cooked or partially cooked.
Use A Dough That Holds Up
Puff pastry and refrigerated pie crust both work. Avoid a wet, sticky dough that will sag through the basket holes. If you use a biscuit topping, press it down so it does not fly up into the fan.
Chill Before Cooking
Cold pies hold their shape better. Put your assembled pies in the fridge for 30 minutes before air frying. This keeps the crust from melting too fast.
Watch The Top Closely
Homemade pies often brown faster on top because the filling is already hot. If the crust gets too dark, lay a small piece of foil over the top. Do not seal the whole basket.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Using a solid liner or parchment that blocks airflow
- Cooking at too high a temperature and burning the crust
- Stacking pies on top of each other
- Forgetting to preheat the air fryer
- Not checking the pie until the timer goes off
Another common mistake is trying to cook a family size pie in a small basket. It will not cook evenly and the center will stay cold. Cut it into smaller portions or bake it in the regular oven instead.
Reheating Leftover Pot Pie In The Air Fryer
Leftover pot pie reheats very well in the air fryer. Set the temperature to 320 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until the crust is crisp again.
Do not use the microwave for leftovers if you want a flaky crust. The microwave makes the pastry rubbery and soft.
Final Thoughts On Air Fryer Pot Pies
Cooking pot pies in the air fryer is fast, easy, and gives you a better crust than the oven in most cases. Stick with individual sizes, preheat the basket, and check the pie near the end. With a little practice you will get a hot filling and a golden top every single time.