Air Fryer Meat Pie: A Tasty, Quick Treat?

Meat pies are a beloved dish, but the best way to reheat them is often debated. Some people swear by the oven, while others prefer the microwave. However, there is a third option that combines the best of both worlds: the air fryer. Using an air fryer to reheat a meat pie can result in a crispy and golden dish that is both quick and convenient. This method is perfect for those who don't want to heat up their entire kitchen by turning on the oven, and it's also a great option for those who want a crispier texture than the microwave can provide.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the process of cooking or reheating meat pies. It ensures even cooking and helps to achieve that coveted crispy crust. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the preheating process:

First, plug in your air fryer and set the desired temperature. The ideal temperature for preheating your air fryer can vary depending on the recipe and your specific air fryer model. Some sources suggest preheating to 350°F (175-180°C), while others recommend 360°F or even 400°F. Refer to your air fryer's instructions and the specific recipe you are following to determine the optimal temperature.

Allow your air fryer to preheat for a sufficient amount of time. Most sources recommend preheating for about 3 to 5 minutes. However, it's important to note that the preheating time may vary depending on your air fryer model and the desired temperature. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your specific air fryer.

While your air fryer is preheating, you can prepare your meat pies. If you are cooking frozen meat pies, it is important to let them thaw completely before placing them in the air fryer. This helps prevent uneven heating. You can also use this time to prepare any side dishes or garnishes that you plan to serve with your meat pies.

Once the preheating time has elapsed, your air fryer should be ready to use. Carefully place your meat pies into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not touching each other. This helps ensure even cooking and browning.

It's worth noting that some recipes and air fryer models may not require preheating. For example, when cooking frozen meat pies, some sources suggest placing the frozen pie directly into a cold air fryer and then setting the desired temperature. Always refer to the specific recipe and your air fryer's instructions for the best results.

By following these steps and allowing your air fryer to preheat properly, you'll be well on your way to enjoying delicious, evenly cooked meat pies with a crispy crust.

Prepare the air fryer basket

Preparing the air fryer basket is an important step in the process of cooking meat pies in an air fryer. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Firstly, ensure that your chosen pie fits comfortably in the basket without touching the sides or top. This is crucial to ensure even cooking and to avoid any sticking. If your pie is too large, consider cutting it in half or choosing a smaller pie.

Once you have the right-sized pie, it's time to prepare the basket. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil. This step is essential to prevent your frozen pie from sticking to the basket and making it difficult to remove once cooked. Alternatively, you can use baking paper cut to fit the basket, ensuring the bottom of the pie doesn't stick.

If you are using ramekins for individual pies, spray them with extra virgin olive oil to reduce sticking. This will make it easier to remove the pies once they are cooked and will also help with the clean-up process.

When placing the pie into the basket, ensure it is centred and not touching the sides. This will allow for even cooking and prevent any burning. If you are cooking multiple pies, make sure to leave enough space between them for the hot air to circulate effectively.

In addition to preparing the basket, it is also important to preheat your air fryer. Set the temperature to around 320°F (160°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes. This step is crucial for even cooking and achieving a golden, crispy crust.

By following these steps, you will ensure that your meat pie cooks evenly, releases easily from the basket, and has a delicious crispy crust. Now you are ready to cook your meat pie to perfection!

Cook the pie

Cooking a meat pie in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to enjoy a delicious, crispy pie. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the perfect pie:

Choose Your Pie:

Select a pie that suits your taste and ensure it fits comfortably in your air fryer basket without touching the sides or top. You can choose from a variety of meat pies, such as beef, steak, and chicken, or even create your own filling with ingredients like onions, mushrooms, and gravy.

Preheat Your Air Fryer:

Preheating your air fryer is crucial for even cooking and achieving that golden, crispy crust. Set the temperature to around 320°F (160°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes. Some sources suggest preheating to 350°F (180°C) or even 360°F, depending on your location and air fryer model.

Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:

Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil to prevent your pie from sticking. Alternatively, you can use baking paper cut to fit the basket, ensuring the bottom of the pie doesn't stick.

Cook Your Pie:

Now it's time to air fry your pie! Place the frozen pie into the center of the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring it doesn't touch the sides. The cooking time will depend on the size and type of pie, but a good guideline is to cook it for around 20-30 minutes at the preheated temperature.

For a 10 oz frozen pot pie, one source recommends cooking at 360°F (180°C) for 21 minutes, and then increasing the temperature to 400°F for the final 2 minutes to brown the top. Another source suggests cooking at 380°F/190°C for 15-17 minutes until the pastry is crisp and golden brown.

If your pie has a bottom crust, it is recommended to remove it from its foil container and place it bottom-side up in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to crisp the bottom evenly.

Monitor and Adjust:

Keep an eye on your pie during the cooking process to ensure even cooking. You may need to rotate the pie halfway through the cooking time. Check the internal temperature of your meat pie with a meat thermometer; it should reach 160°F (71°C) to be fully cooked.

Rest and Serve:

Once your pie is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the filling to settle and makes it easier to eat. Then, serve and enjoy the crispy, golden perfection of your air-fried meat pie!

Some people prefer to heat their pies partially in the microwave before placing them in the air fryer to ensure the filling is thoroughly heated while maintaining a crispy crust. Experiment with different timings and temperatures to find the perfect combination for your air fryer and preferred level of crispiness.

Check the pie is cooked

Checking if your meat pie is cooked is an important step in the cooking process. You don't want to eat an undercooked or burnt pie! Here are some detailed instructions on how to check if your meat pie is cooked:

Firstly, it's important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size and type of pie, as well as the specific model of your air fryer. A general guideline is to cook a frozen pie for around 20 to 35 minutes at 320°F (160°C) to 380°F (190°C). However, it's always a good idea to regularly check on your pie during the cooking process to ensure even cooking and prevent overcooking.

One way to check if your pie is cooked is to use a knife or skewer to pierce the centre of the pie. If the knife or skewer comes out easily and the centre of the pie is piping hot, your pie is likely cooked. You can also check the internal temperature of the pie with a meat thermometer; for savoury pies, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

Another way to ensure your pie is cooked through is to let it rest for a few minutes after removing it from the air fryer. This allows the filling to settle and continue warming up, making it easier to determine if the pie is cooked. If you find that the filling is not hot enough, you can always put the pie back in the air fryer for a few more minutes.

Additionally, if your pie has a bottom crust, it's a good idea to flip it over during the cooking process to ensure even browning. You can also remove the pie from its foil container and place it directly in the air fryer basket, bottom-side up, for 2-3 minutes to crisp the bottom.

Finally, remember that the cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model and the size and type of pie you are cooking. Always refer to the specific instructions provided by the pie manufacturer and use your best judgement to determine if your pie is cooked through.

Let the pie rest

So, you've cooked your meat pie in the air fryer, and it looks perfect—golden brown and crispy. But before you dig in, remember that it's crucial to let the pie rest for a few minutes. This step might seem unnecessary, but it's essential for a few reasons.

First of all, letting the pie rest gives the filling a chance to settle. This makes it easier to eat and ensures that you get a neat slice of pie. No one wants a messy slice that falls apart or a collapsed top crust! The resting period also allows the flavours to develop and reach their full potential. It's worth the wait to get the best possible taste.

Resting the pie is also important for safety reasons. Freshly cooked pie filling can be extremely hot, and if you don't let it cool down, you risk burning your mouth. A few minutes of resting time can make the difference between enjoying your delicious creation and having to deal with a painful burn.

Additionally, the resting period gives your pie time to finish cooking. Even if the pie looks done on the outside, the inside might still need a little extra time to reach the perfect temperature. This is especially important if you're cooking a thicker pie or one with a lot of dense filling. By letting the pie rest, you ensure that it's cooked evenly all the way through.

Finally, letting the pie rest gives you a chance to prepare any sides or toppings that you might want to serve with it. A simple green salad or a fruit salad can be a great complement to a savoury meat pie. So, while your pie is resting, you can quickly whip up some sides to complete your meal.

In conclusion, letting your meat pie rest after air frying is a crucial step that should not be skipped. It ensures that your pie is cooked properly, looks neat, and tastes delicious. It also helps to prevent accidents and gives you time to prepare any accompanying dishes. So, as difficult as it may be to resist that freshly cooked pie, it's always worth the wait to let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Frequently asked questions