Pot pies are a delicious and comforting meal, perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family dinners. And with the increasing popularity of air fryers, more and more people are wondering how to cook pot pie in an air fryer. Air fryers offer a healthier alternative to traditional cooking methods, as they use little to no oil to cook food, resulting in a crispy and golden finish. But how long should you cook pot pie in an air fryer? In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on how to cook pot pie in an air fryer, including the necessary preparations, cooking process, and tips for ensuring a perfect pot pie every time.

Preparing the Pot Pie

Before you start cooking your pot pie in the air fryer, there are a few necessary preparations to consider. First, ensure that the pot pie is thawed and at room temperature before cooking. This will ensure that it cooks evenly and thoroughly. If your pot pie is frozen, you can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Next, you’ll need to remove the plastic wrap or aluminum foil from the pot pie. This will allow the air to circulate and cook the pot pie evenly. If your pot pie comes with a pie crust, you can brush it with an egg wash or melted butter to give it a golden brown finish.

Once your pot pie is prepared, it’s time to preheat the air fryer.

Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheating the air fryer is an essential step in cooking your pot pie to perfection. Preheating ensures that the air fryer is heated to the optimal temperature, which will help to cook the pot pie more evenly and efficiently. To preheat your air fryer, simply turn it on and set it to the desired temperature, which is typically around 375°F.

Once the air fryer has reached the desired temperature, you can place your prepared pot pie into the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave enough space around the pot pie for the air to circulate and cook it evenly. If your air fryer has a divider, you can use it to cook multiple pot pies at once.

Cooking the Pot Pie

Now that your pot pie is in the air fryer and the air fryer is preheated, it’s time to start cooking. The cooking time for pot pie in an air fryer will vary depending on the size and type of pot pie, as well as the brand and model of the air fryer. However, a general rule of thumb is to cook the pot pie for around 15-20 minutes.

To ensure that your pot pie is cooked to perfection, you can check it periodically throughout the cooking process. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pot pie, which should reach at least 165°F to be considered fully cooked. You can also check the crust for a golden brown finish, which indicates that it’s done.

Once your pot pie is cooked, carefully remove it from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. And there you have it, a delicious and crispy pot pie cooked to perfection in an air fryer.

Checking for Doneness

To ensure that your pot pie is cooked thoroughly, you’ll need to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends that pot pie should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the pot pie, making sure not to touch the crust or any filling. If the temperature is below 165°F (74°C), continue cooking the pot pie in the air fryer for a few more minutes until it reaches the recommended temperature.

Another way to check if your pot pie is cooked thoroughly is by checking the crust. The crust should be golden brown and crispy to the touch. If the crust is still pale or soft, continue cooking the pot pie in the air fryer for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired texture.

Conclusion

Cooking pot pie in an air fryer is a convenient and healthy option for those who want a delicious, comforting meal without the added calories of deep-frying. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your pot pie is cooked to perfection every time. Remember to thaw the pot pie, preheat the air fryer, and check for doneness before serving. With a little practice, you’ll be able to cook pot pie in the air fryer with ease and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. So why not give it a try and enjoy a delicious, crispy pot pie tonight?