Banquet Pot Pies have long been a comforting, budget-friendly meal option for busy families, students, and anyone who wants a warm and satisfying dish with minimal effort. These classic frozen pies come filled with tender meat, vegetables, and a creamy sauce wrapped in a flaky crust—making them a delicious and convenient choice for lunch or dinner.
In this article, you’ll learn how to cook Banquet Pot Pie in an air fryer and microwave, complete with detailed ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Whether you prefer a golden, crispy crust or need a quick grab-and-go meal, this article will show you the best method for every situation.
1. How to Cook Banquet Pot Pie in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 Banquet Frozen Pot Pie (Chicken, Turkey, or Beef)
- Cooking spray (optional)
- Foil (optional, for easier cleanup)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) and allow it to preheat for 3–5 minutes. Preheating helps the crust cook evenly and prevents sogginess.
Step 2: Prepare the Pot Pie
Remove the frozen Banquet Pot Pie from its box, but keep it in the original aluminum pie tin.
Do not thaw the pot pie—cook it straight from frozen.
If you want to avoid spills, you may place a small piece of foil or parchment under the pie tin, but keep airflow unobstructed.
Step 3: Place the Pot Pie in the Air Fryer Basket
Set the pot pie into the basket carefully, ensuring it sits flat. You do not need to spray the top with oil.
Step 4: Air Fry the Pot Pie
Cook using the following schedule:
- Cook at 360°F (182°C) for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, carefully check the top. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
- Continue air frying for another 10–15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Total cooking time is usually 30–35 minutes, depending on your air fryer model.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Allow the pot pie to rest for 5 minutes before eating. The filling is extremely hot, and resting helps it thicken and cool slightly.
Optional: Crisp the Center Crust
If you prefer an extra-crispy crust, air fry the pot pie for an additional 2–3 minutes uncovered before serving.
2. How to Cook Banquet Pot Pie in Microwave
Ingredients
- 1 Banquet Frozen Pot Pie
- Microwave-safe plate
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Frozen Pot Pie
Take the pot pie out of the box. Leave it inside the microwave-safe paper or foil pie tin provided. Using a fork, poke 3–4 small holes in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Step 2: Place on a Microwave-Safe Plate
Set the pot pie on a microwave-safe plate to catch any spills.
Step 3: Microwave the Pot Pie
Cooking times vary depending on your microwave’s wattage:
- For 1100-watt microwave: Heat on high for 4–5 minutes.
- For lower-watt microwaves (900 watts or less): Heat on high for 6–7 minutes.
During heating, the edges of the crust may puff slightly—this is normal.
Step 4: Stir the Filling (Optional but Recommended)
Carefully remove the pie from the microwave. Next, using a fork, gently lift the top crust and stir the filling to eliminate cold spots.
Replace the crust loosely.
Step 5: Heat Again
Return the pot pie to the microwave and cook for an additional:
- 2–3 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Let It Rest
Allow the pot pie to rest for 3–5 minutes. This lets the filling thicken and become easier to eat.
Optional: Crisp the Crust
If you want a more toasted top:
- Transfer the pot pie to an air fryer and crisp at 360°F (182°C) for 3–5 minutes,
OR - Place in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to cook a Banquet Pot Pie for a crispy crust?
The air fryer is the best cooking method for a crispy crust. It circulates hot air evenly, producing a golden, firm top without drying out the filling.
Can I cook a Banquet Pot Pie without removing it from the foil pie tin?
Yes. The foil pie tin is safe for both air fryers and microwaves, so you should keep the pot pie inside the tin during cooking.
Do I need to thaw the pot pie before cooking?
No, Banquet pot pies should be cooked directly from frozen. Thawing may cause uneven heating and a mushy crust.
Is it safe to put the foil container in the air fryer?
Yes. Air fryers operate similarly to small convection ovens, and foil containers are safe to use as long as they do not block airflow.
Why is my pot pie still cold in the middle?
This is common when using a microwave. Microwave wattage varies, so you may need extra heating time. Stirring the filling halfway through helps prevent cold spots.
Can I reheat a leftover Banquet Pot Pie?
Yes. The air fryer reheats it best—cook at 350°F (177°C) for 5–7 minutes for crispy results.
Cooking a Banquet Pot Pie doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you choose the air fryer for a flaky, golden crust or the microwave for quick convenience, both methods deliver a warm, hearty, and satisfying meal in minutes. The air fryer is ideal when you want a bakery-style finish, while the microwave is perfect for busy days when time is limited.
By following the detailed steps in this guide, you can ensure your Banquet Pot Pie is cooked evenly, safely, and deliciously every time. Use the air fryer when you crave crispiness and the microwave when you need speed—either way, you’ll enjoy a classic comfort meal with minimal effort.
