How To Take Frozen Pot Pies To The Next Level
Frozen pot pies are convenient, quick, and comforting, but sometimes they need a little extra love to truly shine.
With just a few simple tricks and additions, you can transform an ordinary frozen dinner into something that tastes homemade and delicious.
A crispier crust, richer flavor, or a more polished presentation all come from small changes that make a big difference, turning a simple pot pie into a satisfying upgrade.
1. Brush Crust With Egg Wash For Golden Color
Want your pot pie to look like it came straight from a bakery?
Grab an egg and whisk it with a tablespoon of water or milk.
Using a pastry brush, gently coat the top crust before baking.
The egg wash creates a beautiful golden shine that makes your dinner look professionally made and incredibly appetizing, turning a simple frozen meal into something worth showing off at the table.
2. Add Extra Shredded Cheese On Top
Who doesn’t love cheese?
About ten minutes before your pot pie finishes baking, open the oven and sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese on top.
Let it melt and bubble into gooey perfection.
The melted cheese adds richness and creates an irresistible layer of flavor that transforms your ordinary frozen dinner into comfort food heaven.
3. Sprinkle Fresh Herbs Before Baking
Fresh herbs can work magic on any dish, and pot pies are no exception.
Chop up some thyme, rosemary, or parsley and sprinkle them generously over the crust before it goes into the oven.
As everything bakes, the herbs release wonderful aromas and add a burst of fresh flavor.
Your kitchen will smell amazing, and every bite will taste like you spent hours cooking from scratch.
4. Mix In Cooked Veggies For More Flavor
Boost nutrition and taste by adding your own cooked vegetables to the filling.
Carefully cut open the top crust before baking and stir in sautéed mushrooms, diced carrots, or extra peas.
Seal the crust back down and bake as directed.
Your pot pie becomes heartier, healthier, and more satisfying with every forkful, giving you way more bang for your buck nutritionally.
5. Top With Crispy Bacon Bits
Bacon makes everything better, and pot pies are no exception to that delicious rule.
Cook a few strips until crispy, chop them into small bits, and sprinkle them over your finished pot pie.
The smoky, salty crunch pairs perfectly with the creamy filling and flaky crust.
Just one bite will convince you that bacon belongs on every pot pie you ever make from now on.
6. Serve With A Side Of Gravy Or Sauce
Sometimes the filling can be a little dry, but gravy solves that problem instantly.
Heat up some chicken or beef gravy and serve it on the side for drizzling.
You can also try ranch dressing, hot sauce, or a creamy mushroom sauce.
Having something extra to dip or pour adds moisture and another layer of flavor that makes each bite even more delicious and satisfying.
7. Bake On A Preheated Baking Sheet For Crispier Bottom
Nobody likes a soggy bottom crust, so here’s a pro tip that changes everything.
Place a baking sheet in the oven while it preheats to the temperature listed on your pot pie package.
Once hot, carefully set your frozen pot pie directly on the sheet.
The intense heat from below crisps up the bottom crust beautifully, giving you that perfect crunch in every single bite.
8. Let Rest A Few Minutes Before Cutting
Patience pays off when it comes to pot pies.
After pulling your masterpiece from the oven, resist the urge to dig in immediately.
Let it rest for about five minutes before cutting.
During that time, the filling thickens up and settles, preventing a messy, runny disaster when you slice into it.
Plus, waiting helps you avoid burning your mouth on molten hot filling, which is always appreciated.
