How to Microwave a Pot Pie in 5 Minutes
Can you microwave a pot pie isn't the question. It's how long it'll take and how good it'll come out.
Yes, you can microwave a pot pie. But, the problem with traditional frozen pot pies is that they weren't meant to be microwaved.
They require a slow baking process that can take 45-60 minutes in an oven. Even then, you have to make sure you leave it in for the perfect time and at the right temperature.
We've all been there, pulling out a pot pie too early and finding a frozen center and soggy bottom. Or leaving it too long and ending up with a burnt crust. At that point you ask yourself, "why don't I just make it myself?".
But there's hope! As a pot pie connoisseur, I'll tell you everything you need to know about microwaving pot pies. From a new 5 minute microwavable option you've probably never heard of, to tips on how to use your microwave to get the best results, in the shortest time.
The 5 Minute Microwaveable Pot Pie
Before discussing microwave tips, let me tell you about a new pot pie option that goes from frozen to ready in just 5 minutes.
I know it sounds to good to be true but let me tell you, the pot pie game is a lot different from how your mother left it.
The Problem with Frozen Pot Pies
For years, people searching for easy ways to enjoy this classic comfort food staple have been calling out frozen pot pies. I've heard people say they take too long to heat, cook unevenly, and end up having a soggy bottom crust.
I don't know about you but that doesn't sound appetizing.
The Microwavable Solution
As someone who doesn't have 60 minutes to wait for my "quick meal" but can't get enough of a savory pot pie, I went searching for a brand that was looking to change the game.
That's when I found Aunt Ethel's Pot Pies.
When I first her pies, I won't lie, they looked a little funny. But the idea of an authentic homestyle pot pie that I could microwave in 5 minutes was too good to pass up.
I thought, "what the heck, why not give it a try!" And as soon as I heated up their Roasted Chicken pot pie and tasted it, it all made sense.
Unlike traditional frozen options, they're pot pies are flash frozen. This technique allow their tender organic chicken and freshly cut vegetables to maintain their texture and flavor, even when frozen and microwaved.
How Aunt Ethel's Pies Are Ready in Minutes
The creative spin they put on their pot pies is what allows them to be microwaved and still taste fresh.
The problem has always been the crust. No one could ever figure out how to capture the crunchiness of a homemade pot pie while making it a quick serve option.
The way Aunt Ethel solves this problem is by packing the pie filling and the pie crust separately. This way you can toast the crust for a crispy texture and warm up the pie filling in the microwave.
As a traditional pot pie lover, I was skeptical if these pies would give me the same taste and satisfaction of a traditional pot pie, but I have to say, they delivered.
These pies made me realize that I don't have to sacrifice homemade taste for convenience. It's all in the preparation.
They capture that traditional homemade flavor, just with a modern spin.
How to Microwave an Aunt Ethel's Pot Pie
The only option I've found that you can microwave in 5 minutes is Aunt Ethel's pot pies.
Their pie filling consisting of organic chicken, carrots, corn, peas, leeks, and Aunt Ethel's original gravy, comes in a cup that you can pop in the microwave for 5 minutes.
While that's heating up, you can place the buttery puff pastry crust topped with Sal de Ibiza, in the toaster.
Within 5 minutes I had a pot pie meal that tasted like I baked it from scratch.
How Microwaving Can Speed Up Your Cook Time
While not all options offer the convenience of Aunt Ethel's pot pies, your microwave can still help you cut down your frozen pot pie cooking time.
Here's a time-saving technique that many don't know about: use your microwave to jumpstart the cooking process, then finish in the oven for that perfect golden crust.
The Time-Saving Technique
Start by microwaving your frozen pot pie for about 4-5 minutes. This starts to thaw out the crust and filling.
I realized letting frozen pies bake until unfrozen takes 10-15 minutes alone. Why not use your microwave to save time.
From there, transfer your pie to a preheated oven for just 30-35 minutes. That 25-30 minutes less than the traditional cooking time. Just remember to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
How to Avoid Soggy Bottoms
Want even better results?
Place your pot pie on a microwave-safe crisper pan during the microwave phase. These specialized trays help prevent the dreaded soggy bottom and can improve the overall texture of your crust.
The Aunt Ethel’s Difference
When comparing Aunt Ethel's pot pies to Banquet, Marie Callender's, and other brands, they set themselves apart in terms of quality and convenience.
Their chicken pot pies are made with organic ingredients, including tender chicken, garden-fresh vegetables, and their signature golden, flaky crust that stays fresh due to their freezing method.
Also, there's a significant difference in cook times. While many frozen pot pies take 30-60 minutes to prep, Aunt Ethel’s pies are ready in 5 minutes.
When time is valuable, these quick pies save the day. I don't have to sacrifice quality for convenience and their lower in calories and higher in nutrients than most store-bought options.
Completing Your Pot Pie Dinner
Wondering what to serve with chicken pot pie? The possibilities are endless.
Pair it with your favorite side dishes, such as veggies, salads, other options that complement your savory gravy and crispy pie crust ; some of my favorite sides for chicken pot pie include:
- A Tossed Salad
- Roasted Asparagus
- Buttery Mashed Potatoes
- Steamed Green Beans
- An Olive Medley
- Honey-Glazed Brussel Sprouts
Check out the full list of 31 perfect pot pie side dish pairings.
Other pot pie pairings to complete your meal:
The Verdict: Can You Microwave a Pot Pie?
The answer to the question, "Can chicken pot pies be microwaved?" is a resounding yes, especially when it comes to Aunt Ethel’s Pot Pies.
Their microwavable chicken pot pies are ready in 5 minutes, setting them apart from tradition frozen pies.
However, you can still drastically reduce your cooking time with other brands. By using the microwave technique where you thaw out your pie before placing it in the oven, your cook time can go from 60 to 35 minutes.
Either route you choose, find an option that's convenient for you and provides that classic pot pie taste you're looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do pot pies take in the microwave?
A: Single-serve pot pies (like Banquet) typically take 4-6 minutes in the microwave, while family-size pies can take 6-8 minutes. Quick-cook options like Aunt Ethel's are designed for 5-minute microwave cooking. Always check your pie's packaging though - cooking times can vary quite a bit between brands.
Q: How do you heat a store bought pot pie?
A: For traditional frozen pot pies, you can either:
1. Follow the oven instructions (usually 45-60 minutes)
2. Use the hybrid method: microwave for 4-5 minutes, then finish in the oven for 30-35 minutes
3. Microwave only (takes 5 minutes, but only possible for Aunt Ethel's pot pies)
If you're reheating a fresh pot pie from a store's deli section, microwave it in 2-minute intervals until heated through.
Q: Can you put a tin foil pie pan in the microwave?
A: Absolutely not! This is a big no-no. Metal and microwaves don't mix.
You can damage your microwave or start a fire. If your pot pie comes in a foil pan, you'll need to transfer it to a microwave-safe dish first.
Q: How do you tell if a pot pie is done without a thermometer?
Here are some reliable signs:
- Steam should be escaping from the vents in the crust
- Insert a knife into the center - it should feel hot on your hand when you pull it out
- The filling should be bubbling around the edges
- If you carefully pierce the center, the filling should be steaming hot and flow easily, not thick and cold
Q: Are pot pies fully cooked?
A: Most store-bought frozen pot pies contain pre-cooked meat, but the crust and some vegetables are raw. I recommend cooking them thoroughly for food safety and best taste. When in doubt, heat until steaming hot throughout.
Q: How do I know when a pot pie is done?
A: Here's my foolproof method, look for these three signs:
1. The crust should be golden brown
2. You should see the filling bubbling through the vents
3. Most importantly, stick a knife in the center - when you pull it out, it should feel hot to the touch
If you're using a microwave, let the pie rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking. This helps distribute the heat evenly and prevents those surprise cold spots in the middle.