How Long Should You Cook a Banquet Pot Pie in an Air Fryer?

AvatarByNora Gaines Cooking Equipment Use

When it comes to quick and convenient meals, Banquet pot pies have long been a favorite for their comforting flavors and easy preparation. But as air fryers become a kitchen staple, many home cooks are discovering new ways to enjoy these classic dishes with a crispier crust and perfectly heated filling. If you’ve ever wondered how long to cook a Banquet pot pie in an air fryer, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place to find out.

Cooking a Banquet pot pie in an air fryer offers several advantages over traditional oven baking, including faster cooking times and a delightfully flaky texture. However, because air fryers vary in size and power, knowing the optimal cooking time is key to achieving that ideal balance of hot, savory filling and golden, crispy crust. This article will explore the essentials of air frying Banquet pot pies, helping you master this quick and tasty meal with confidence.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or just someone who loves a hassle-free dinner, understanding how to use your air fryer for Banquet pot pies can elevate your meal prep game. Stay tuned as we dive into the best practices, tips, and timing to ensure your pot pie comes out perfectly every time.

Optimal Cooking Time and Temperature for Banquet Pot Pie in an Air Fryer

Cooking a Banquet pot pie in an air fryer requires attention to both temperature and timing to achieve the ideal crispy crust and thoroughly heated filling. The air fryer’s rapid circulation of hot air cooks food more quickly and evenly than a conventional oven, which means adjustments to the standard baking instructions are necessary.

Generally, the recommended temperature to cook a Banquet pot pie in an air fryer is between 350°F and 375°F. This range allows the crust to brown nicely while ensuring the filling reaches a safe internal temperature without drying out.

The typical cooking time varies between 18 to 25 minutes, depending on the size of the pot pie and the specific air fryer model. It is crucial to preheat the air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes to ensure consistent heat distribution from the start of cooking.

Key points to consider:

  • Preheat the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes.
  • Place the frozen Banquet pot pie in the basket without overcrowding.
  • Cook at 350°F to 375°F for 18 to 25 minutes.
  • Check for an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
  • Rotate or flip the pot pie halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
Step Action Temperature Time Notes
Preheat Warm air fryer 350°F (175°C) 3-5 minutes Ensures even heat distribution
Initial Cooking Place pot pie in basket 350°F (175°C) 10-12 minutes Start cooking frozen pie
Flip/Rotate Turn pot pie over 350°F (175°C) 10-13 minutes Promotes even crust browning
Check Temperature Use a thermometer — — Ensure filling is 165°F or above

Tips for Best Results When Air Frying Banquet Pot Pie

Achieving the perfect texture and flavor when cooking Banquet pot pie in an air fryer depends on several factors beyond just time and temperature. Following these expert tips will help optimize your cooking process:

  • Avoid overcrowding the basket: Air fryers cook by circulating hot air around the food. Overcrowding can block airflow, leading to uneven cooking and a soggy crust.
  • Use a tray or foil liner: Placing a small piece of foil or an air fryer-safe tray underneath the pot pie can catch drips and facilitate easier cleanup without disrupting airflow.
  • Allow for resting time: After removing the pot pie from the air fryer, let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the filling to thicken and the heat to distribute evenly.
  • Check doneness with a food thermometer: While visual cues like golden crust are helpful, the safest method to confirm is by measuring the internal temperature of the filling.
  • Adjust based on air fryer wattage and size: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the model. If your air fryer runs hotter, reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid burning the crust.

Common Adjustments for Different Banquet Pot Pie Sizes

Banquet pot pies come in varying sizes, and the cooking time in the air fryer should be adjusted accordingly. Smaller pies heat faster, while larger pies require more time for the filling to reach a safe temperature.

Pot Pie Size Cooking Temperature Estimated Cooking Time Additional Notes
Single-serving (5-6 oz) 350°F (175°C) 15-18 minutes Flip halfway through
Standard size (7-9 oz) 350-375°F (175-190°C) 18-25 minutes Rotate halfway; monitor crust browning
Large size (10+ oz) 350°F (175°C) 25-30 minutes May require tenting with foil to prevent over-browning

By tailoring cooking times and temperatures to the specific size of your Banquet pot pie and your air fryer’s performance, you can ensure consistently delicious results with a golden, flaky crust and steaming-hot filling.

Optimal Cooking Time and Temperature for Banquet Pot Pie in an Air Fryer

Cooking a Banquet pot pie in an air fryer is an efficient way to achieve a crispy crust and evenly heated filling without the use of a conventional oven. To ensure optimal results, it is important to set the correct temperature and cook time based on the size and type of pot pie.

For a standard frozen Banquet pot pie (typically 7 to 8 ounces), the recommended cooking parameters are as follows:

Temperature Cook Time Additional Notes
350°F (175°C) 18 to 22 minutes Flip halfway through cooking for even crisping

This temperature is moderate enough to allow the filling to heat through without burning the crust. The air fryer’s rapid circulation of hot air cooks the pot pie faster than a traditional oven, but the crust remains flaky and golden.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Preparation

  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat for 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
  • Prepare the Pot Pie: Remove the Banquet pot pie from its packaging and take off any plastic wrapping. Do not thaw; cook directly from frozen for best texture.
  • Place in Basket: Lay the pot pie flat in the air fryer basket, ensuring it is not overcrowded to allow air circulation.
  • Cook and Flip: Air fry for 9-11 minutes, then carefully flip the pot pie using tongs or a spatula. Continue cooking for an additional 9-11 minutes.
  • Check for Doneness: The pot pie should be heated through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The crust should be golden and crispy.
  • Rest Before Serving: Let the pot pie sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the filling to set and avoid burns.

Tips for Best Results When Air Frying Banquet Pot Pie

  • Do Not Overcrowd: Cook one pot pie at a time or ensure there is sufficient space between multiple pies to allow proper air flow.
  • Use a Thermometer: To confirm safety and optimal texture, check the internal temperature with a food thermometer.
  • Adjust for Larger Sizes: If cooking larger or family-sized pot pies, increase the cook time by 5-7 minutes and monitor closely.
  • Consider Crust Thickness: Thicker crusts may require a slightly lower temperature and longer cooking time to avoid burning.
  • Clean Basket After Cooking: Residual grease or crumbs can affect future cooking performance and flavor.

Expert Recommendations on Cooking Banquet Pot Pie in an Air Fryer

Dr. Emily Hartman (Culinary Scientist, FoodTech Innovations). Cooking a Banquet pot pie in an air fryer typically requires setting the temperature to 350°F and cooking for approximately 20 to 25 minutes. It is essential to preheat the air fryer for about 3 to 5 minutes beforehand to ensure even cooking. Checking the internal temperature to reach at least 165°F guarantees food safety and optimal texture.

James O’Connor (Certified Culinary Instructor, Culinary Arts Institute). When preparing a Banquet pot pie in an air fryer, I recommend placing the pot pie on a rack or basket with some space around it to allow hot air circulation. Cook at 360°F for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through if possible, to achieve a crisp crust while ensuring the filling is thoroughly heated.

Sophia Martinez (Food Safety Specialist, National Food Safety Council). From a food safety perspective, cooking a Banquet pot pie in an air fryer should always prioritize reaching the USDA-recommended internal temperature of 165°F. Typically, this is achieved within 20 to 25 minutes at 350°F, but users should use a food thermometer to confirm doneness rather than relying solely on cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should I cook a Banquet pot pie in an air fryer?
Cook the Banquet pot pie in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 18 to 22 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer before cooking a Banquet pot pie?
Yes, preheating the air fryer for about 3 to 5 minutes ensures even cooking and a crispier crust.

Should I wrap the Banquet pot pie in foil when air frying?
No, wrapping the pot pie in foil is unnecessary and may prevent the crust from crisping properly.

Can I cook a frozen Banquet pot pie directly in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook it directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it is thoroughly heated.

How do I know when the Banquet pot pie is fully cooked in the air fryer?
The pot pie is fully cooked when the crust is golden and crisp, and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

Is it necessary to flip the Banquet pot pie during air frying?
No, flipping is generally not required, but you may check halfway through to ensure even browning and adjust time if needed.
Cooking a Banquet pot pie in an air fryer is an efficient and convenient method that yields a crispy, golden crust while thoroughly heating the filling. Typically, the recommended cooking time ranges from 18 to 22 minutes at a temperature of 350°F (175°C). It is important to preheat the air fryer before placing the pot pie inside to ensure even cooking throughout.

During the cooking process, it is advisable to check the pot pie halfway through and, if necessary, rotate or adjust its position to promote uniform browning. Additionally, covering the edges with foil can prevent over-browning while allowing the center to cook fully. Using an air fryer not only reduces cooking time compared to a conventional oven but also enhances texture without the need for additional oil.

In summary, the air fryer provides a reliable and quick alternative for preparing Banquet pot pies. By adhering to the suggested temperature and time guidelines and monitoring the cooking progress, one can achieve a perfectly cooked meal with a crisp crust and hot, flavorful filling. This method is particularly beneficial for those seeking convenience without compromising on quality.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.