How Do You Cook a Perfect Pot Pie in an Air Fryer?

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Cooking Equipment Use

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, flaky pot pie filled with savory goodness. Traditionally baked in an oven, pot pies have long been a go-to for hearty, satisfying meals. But what if you could achieve that same golden crust and perfectly cooked filling in a fraction of the time? Enter the air fryer—a kitchen gadget that’s revolutionizing how we cook everything from crispy fries to tender meats.

Cooking a pot pie in an air fryer combines convenience with delicious results, offering a quicker, energy-efficient alternative to conventional baking. The air fryer’s rapid circulation of hot air crisps the crust beautifully while ensuring the filling heats evenly, making it an ideal method for both homemade and frozen pot pies. Whether you’re short on time or simply looking to experiment with new cooking techniques, the air fryer opens up exciting possibilities for this classic dish.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essentials of preparing and cooking a pot pie in an air fryer, highlighting tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect balance of flaky crust and savory filling. Get ready to transform your pot pie experience with this modern twist on a timeless favorite.

Preparing the Pot Pie for Air Frying

Before placing your pot pie in the air fryer, proper preparation is essential to ensure even cooking and a perfectly crisp crust. If using a frozen pot pie, allow it to thaw slightly at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes. This step helps the filling heat evenly without overcooking the crust.

If you are working with a homemade pot pie, make sure the filling is fully assembled and the crust is sealed properly. Poke a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during cooking, which prevents sogginess and promotes browning.

Consider lightly brushing the crust with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water or milk). This will give the crust a golden and glossy finish. Avoid overfilling the pie to minimize spillage inside the air fryer basket.

Recommended Air Fryer Settings for Pot Pie

Cooking a pot pie in an air fryer requires the right temperature and timing to balance crust crispiness and filling heat-through. Most pot pies cook well at medium-high heat settings due to the quick air circulation.

Use the following guidelines:

  • Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) to ensure immediate and even cooking.
  • Place the pot pie in the basket without overcrowding; there should be space around the edges for air flow.
  • Cook for approximately 20 to 25 minutes if thawed, or 30 to 35 minutes if starting from frozen.
  • Halfway through cooking, check the pot pie and rotate it to promote even browning.
  • If the crust is browning too quickly, lower the temperature by 10-15°F and extend the cooking time.

Tips for Achieving a Perfectly Cooked Pot Pie

To optimize your pot pie’s texture and flavor when using an air fryer, consider these expert tips:

  • Use an air fryer basket or tray that fits the size of your pot pie comfortably.
  • Avoid using aluminum foil directly in the air fryer as it can block airflow, but a perforated parchment paper liner can be used to catch drips.
  • If the filling seems undercooked after the initial cooking time, cover the crust edges with foil to prevent burning and continue cooking in 3-5 minute increments.
  • Let the pot pie rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the filling to thicken and cool slightly, which improves slicing and serving.

Air Fryer Cooking Times and Temperatures for Different Pot Pie Sizes

Pot Pie Size Starting Temperature Cooking Time (Thawed) Cooking Time (Frozen) Additional Notes
Individual (4-6 oz) 350°F (175°C) 12-15 minutes 18-22 minutes Rotate halfway; check for crispiness
Small (8-10 oz) 350°F (175°C) 18-22 minutes 25-30 minutes Use egg wash; cover edges if browning too fast
Medium (12-16 oz) 350°F (175°C) 20-25 minutes 30-35 minutes Rotate halfway; rest 5 minutes before serving
Large (20+ oz) 330°F (165°C) 25-30 minutes 35-40 minutes Lower temp to prevent crust burning

Preparing the Pot Pie for Air Frying

Before cooking a pot pie in an air fryer, proper preparation ensures even cooking and optimal texture. Whether using a frozen or homemade pot pie, follow these expert tips:

  • Thawing: For frozen pot pies, it is recommended to thaw partially in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours. This prevents the crust from burning while the filling heats thoroughly.
  • Piercing the Crust: Use a fork or knife to make small slits on the top crust. This allows steam to escape, preventing sogginess and ensuring a crisp crust.
  • Preheating the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to the desired temperature, usually between 350°F (175°C) and 400°F (205°C), for about 3–5 minutes. Preheating promotes even cooking and a golden crust.
  • Using an Air Fryer-Safe Dish: If your pot pie is homemade and uncooked, place it in an air fryer-safe dish or pan that fits inside the basket. This helps maintain shape and prevents filling leakage.

Optimal Temperature and Timing for Air Fryer Pot Pies

Cooking times and temperatures vary depending on pot pie size, filling type, and crust thickness. Below is a guideline table for cooking common pot pie sizes in an air fryer:

Pot Pie Type Air Fryer Temperature Cooking Time Additional Tips
Single-serving Frozen Pot Pie (6-7 oz) 375°F (190°C) 18-22 minutes Flip halfway through for even browning
Homemade Mini Pot Pie 350°F (175°C) 20-25 minutes Cover edges with foil if browning too fast
Large Pot Pie (9-10 inch diameter) 360°F (182°C) 30-35 minutes Check internal temp; cover crust edges if needed
  • Checking Internal Temperature: Use a food thermometer to ensure the filling reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
  • Adjustments: If the crust browns too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the filling cooks through.

Step-by-Step Air Frying Method for Pot Pies

Follow these steps to achieve a perfectly cooked pot pie in the air fryer:

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer

Set the air fryer to the recommended temperature based on pot pie size and type.

  1. Prepare the Pot Pie
  • If frozen, partially thaw as mentioned earlier.
  • Pierce the crust to allow steam release.
  • Place the pot pie in an appropriate air fryer-safe dish if homemade.
  1. Place in Air Fryer Basket

Ensure there is sufficient space around the pot pie for air circulation, which is critical for even cooking and crispness.

  1. Cook According to Time Guidelines
  • Start with the minimum recommended time.
  • Flip or rotate the pot pie halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
  1. Check Doneness

Use a food thermometer to verify the filling has reached 165°F (74°C). If not, continue cooking in 3–5 minute increments.

  1. Rest Before Serving

Allow the pot pie to rest for 3–5 minutes after cooking to let the filling thicken and avoid burns.

Tips for Enhancing Air Fryer Pot Pie Results

To elevate the quality of your pot pie cooked in an air fryer, consider these expert recommendations:

  • Brush the Crust with Egg Wash: Applying an egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water or milk) before cooking enhances golden color and shine.
  • Use Parchment Paper or Silicone Liners: Prevent sticking and ease cleanup by lining the air fryer basket, ensuring airflow holes remain unobstructed.
  • Monitor Cooking Progress Visually: Air fryers can vary; check the pot pie occasionally to prevent overcooking or burning.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Cook pot pies one or two at a time, depending on size, to maintain proper air circulation.
  • Experiment with Temperature: Lower temperatures with longer cooking times can improve filling heating without burning the crust.

Common Challenges and How to Address Them

Challenge Cause Solution
Undercooked Filling Insufficient cooking time/temperature Increase cooking time; verify internal temp ≥165°F
Burnt or Overly Browned Crust Too high temperature or cooking time Reduce temperature; cover crust edges with foil
Soggy Bottom Crust Excess moisture or inadequate air circulation Use a rack or perforated liner; partially thaw filling
Filling Leakage Overfilled or cracked crust Avoid overfilling; seal crust edges properly

By following these professional guidelines, cooking a pot pie in an air fryer can yield a flaky, golden crust with a hot, savory filling every time.

Expert Insights on Cooking Pot Pie in an Air Fryer

Dr. Linda Carver (Culinary Science Researcher, FoodTech Institute). Cooking a pot pie in an air fryer requires precise temperature control to ensure even cooking without drying out the crust. I recommend preheating the air fryer to 350°F and cooking the pot pie for approximately 18-22 minutes, checking halfway through to prevent overbrowning. The air fryer’s circulating hot air crisps the crust beautifully while maintaining a moist filling.

Mark Jensen (Chef and Kitchen Appliance Specialist, Culinary Innovations). When preparing a pot pie in an air fryer, it is essential to use a shallow dish that fits comfortably inside the basket to allow optimal air circulation. Covering the edges of the crust with foil during the first half of cooking can prevent burning, then removing it to brown the crust evenly. This method enhances texture and flavor compared to traditional oven baking.

Sophia Nguyen (Nutritionist and Home Cooking Expert, Healthy Eats Magazine). Utilizing an air fryer for pot pies can reduce cooking time and oil usage, making it a healthier alternative to deep-frying or conventional oven baking. For best results, choose pot pies with a balanced filling and avoid overly thick crusts, as the air fryer excels at producing a crisp exterior while preserving the nutritional integrity of the ingredients inside.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What temperature should I set my air fryer to cook a pot pie?
Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for an even cook and to ensure the crust becomes golden and crispy without burning.

How long does it take to cook a pot pie in an air fryer?
Cooking time typically ranges from 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the size of the pot pie and the air fryer model.

Should I thaw a frozen pot pie before air frying?
It is recommended to thaw the pot pie for about 30 minutes for more even cooking, though you can cook it from frozen by increasing the time slightly.

Do I need to cover the pot pie while air frying?
No, covering is unnecessary; the air fryer circulates hot air efficiently, which crisps the crust without burning.

How can I prevent the crust from burning before the filling is hot?
To avoid burning, you can loosely cover the pot pie with foil halfway through cooking or reduce the temperature slightly and extend the cooking time.

Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer before cooking a pot pie?
Preheating the air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes is advisable to ensure consistent cooking and optimal crust texture.
Cooking a pot pie in an air fryer offers a convenient and efficient alternative to traditional oven baking. The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation ensures that the crust becomes perfectly golden and crispy while the filling heats evenly. This method significantly reduces cooking time without compromising the texture or flavor of the pot pie, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals seeking a quick yet satisfying meal.

When preparing a pot pie in an air fryer, it is essential to preheat the appliance and adjust the temperature and cooking duration according to the size and type of the pot pie. Typically, setting the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cooking for 15 to 20 minutes yields optimal results. Additionally, covering the edges of the crust with foil during the initial cooking phase can prevent over-browning and ensure an evenly cooked pie.

Overall, mastering the technique of cooking pot pies in an air fryer can enhance culinary efficiency and deliver consistently delicious outcomes. By following recommended temperature settings and monitoring cooking times, users can enjoy a flaky crust and hot, flavorful filling with minimal effort. This approach exemplifies how modern kitchen appliances can simplify traditional recipes while maintaining high-quality results.

Author Profile

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Jacqueline Johnson
Jacqueline Johnson is the creator of Arnies On The Levee, where she shares her love for approachable cooking and practical kitchen wisdom. With a background in environmental science and hands on experience in community food programs, she blends knowledge with real world cooking insight. Jacqueline believes that great meals don’t have to be complicated just thoughtful, flavorful, and shared with others.

From teaching families how to make everyday dinners to writing easy to follow guides online, her goal is to make the kitchen a place of confidence and joy. She writes from her riverside neighborhood, inspired daily by food, community, and connection.