Beef, chicken and broccoli pot pies – which one reigns supreme? Our countdown of the frozen pot pies worth your time will tell you what brands are worth baking, and which ones are worth leaving behind.
#FrozenFood #Beef #Chicken
8. Banquet | 0:00
7. Blake’s | 1:40
6. Amy’s | 3:16
5. Mrs. Budd’s | 4:39
4. Boston Market | 6:17
3. Marie Callender’s | 7:36
2. Willow Tree | 9:18
1. Centerville Pie Co. | 10:56
Voiceover by: Krystle Futrell
Read Full Article: https://www.thedailymeal.com/1290459/best-frozen-pot-pie-brands-ranked/
Beef, chicken and broccoli pot pies – which one reigns supreme? Our countdown of the frozen pot pies worth your time will tell you what brands are worth baking, and which ones are worth leaving behind. “I just put it in the oven and by and by it was done.”
Banquet’s extensive freezer food collection promises convenience, cheap eats, and a quick solution to hunger pangs. Within the company’s vast array of frozen foods, you’ll find single-serving chicken, beef, and turkey pot pies. For this taste test, curiosity led us to the beef selection. The brand gave us high hopes, but upon first glance,
The visual appearance left much to be desired. The crust had an off-putting brown tint, making us question if it had an unfortunate run-in with a tanning machine. With trepidation, we ventured further, hoping the taste would redeem this peculiar-looking creation.
Don’t judge a book by its cover, right? But all hopes were dashed with one bite. The gravy, or lack thereof, was flavorless. And barely anything could be found within the pie itself. From funky-tasting and tough-to-chew beef to a not-so-healthy nutritional profile,
This frozen dinner option quickly ranked last on the list. On top of the absent flavor profile, one single-serving pie contains 380 calories and 710 milligrams of sodium. With that much salt, where is the flavor? Prepare your jaw for a workout and plan to work out when indulging in this freezer folly.
With a disagreeable appearance to its lackluster gravy, funky beef, and barely-there filling, it falls short of culinary excellence, even for a late-night snack. Blake’s frozen pot pies are a well-known organic option, making them a go-to choice for health-conscious individuals frequenting stores like Whole Foods
And even some of the average, big-name grocery chains. With a promise of quality ingredients, we eagerly dove into the brand’s chicken pot pie, hoping for a culinary adventure worth savoring. The crust lived up to its flakey reputation. It crumbled with each bite
And was reminiscent of a delicate puff pastry in texture and flavor. However, there was one minor hiccup in the form of an off-putting smell that emanated from the peas. It was as if they were trying to assert their presence a bit too forcefully, leaving a
Lingering aroma. Nonetheless, we soldiered on to see how the pot pie tasted overall. Unfortunately, the pie fell somewhat short on substance, too. It seemed hollow, offering both minimal gravy and minimal eats. The chicken, in particular, displayed a rubbery texture that left our taste buds longing for a more tender and succulent experience. And
While the ingredient list is free from words you can’t pronounce, the label does state that it is a bioengineered product. As for nutrition, sadly, it’s not the healthiest, by far. Blake’s single-serving pies have 400 calories and 720 milligrams of sodium in each one,
Leaving it at the starting line with the others in the back of the bunch. While Blake’s does stand as a solid contender in the realm of organic frozen options, it was not a favorite of ours. The rubbery chicken, lack of enough gravy, and the
Lingering scent of peas detract from its overall appeal, landing it a little lower on the list. “I think we pioneered the whole frozen food industry by making really really great tasting food.” In the pursuit of culinary adventure, we decided to venture into the realm of Amy’s
Frozen pot pies, opting for the intriguing choice of broccoli, instead of the traditional chicken or vegetable. With hopes of discovering a new favorite from a health-conscious brand name, we embarked on a taste test that promised both excitement and trepidation. Right out of the box, the crust was the color of cardboard,
Forcing us to dig deeper in search of the hidden treasures within. The flavor, unfortunately, left us yearning for something more captivating. However, a burst of cheddar cheese gravy came to the rescue, injecting life into the otherwise lackluster experience. If you’re a cheese lover,
This pot pie is for you, but it’s more of a broccoli cheddar soup bowl than it is a pot pie. It has a nice array of organic vegetables and only 510 milligrams of sodium. However, each pie has 490 calories and 47 grams of carbohydrates negating that healthy touch.
The pie offers a diverse array of textures and tastes, but the crust was a big deterrent, something that’s hard to overlook when you’re searching for a perfect pot pie. If you’re in the mood for a cheesy adventure that balances the mundane with bursts of flavor,
Amy’s broccoli pot pie might just satisfy your cravings. “Michael ate an entire family-sized chicken pot pie for lunch and then he promptly fell asleep.” Prepare to buckle up for a pot pie adventure of epic proportions with Mrs. Budd’s frozen
Delight — a colossal 3-pound helping of chicken pot pie that promises to leave you satiated and ready for a cozy food coma. While the brand does offer a few smaller servings, along with a turkey option, go big or go home, right?
The crust of Mrs. Budd’s pot pie greeted us with a golden brown allure, teasing our taste buds with its crunchy exterior and soft, comforting center. The flavor of the crust and tasty gravy provided a foundation of satisfaction. However,
We encountered some quirks that placed this pot pie firmly in the middle of the road. The peas and carrots, unfortunately, carry the unmistakable taste and look of canned produce, a reminder of simpler times when convenience often outweighed culinary finesse. The chicken, cubed and contained within, falls short of soaring to new heights,
Leaving us with a decent, yet unremarkable taste experience overall. Let’s not forget the nutritional facts of this generous feast. One cup of this pot pie only has 340 calories, but the sodium count ranks one of the highest, with 770 milligrams. While the crust and gravy impressed us with their flavors and textures,
The canned peas, carrots, and cubed chicken added an element of nostalgia rather than exceptional taste. It’s a decent pot pie and one that will fill your belly, but it might not be the one you excitedly write home about – at least that wasn’t the case for us.
Did you know that Boston Market makes a frozen chicken pot pie? We didn’t, and we were in for a pleasant surprise indeed. This brand-name pot pie distinguishes itself from the rest with its truly distinctive flavor profile. The crust was flakey with a light and buttery flavor, but
What really sets this pot pie apart is the tasty abundance of ingredients inside. While the gravy may be thinner than some of the other options on this list, fear not, for the flavor is all there. As we examined the contents of the chicken pot pie, we came across chunks of cubed chicken
That give off a somewhat processed appearance. While they were not the most visually appealing, don’t let the appearance of them deter you. Every aspect of this pie delivers in terms of taste, as each bite reveals a symphony of flavors that is sure to satisfy taste buds and growling stomachs.
Overall, Boston Market’s chicken pot pie offers a flavorful adventure that captivated our taste buds with its unique characteristics. It is a guilty pleasure that may not be the healthiest choice, with 1 cup boasting a whopping 470 calories and 660 milligrams of sodium, along with an
Ingredient list that resembles something straight out of a chemistry textbook. But sometimes, indulgence is necessary for pure culinary satisfaction. And this pot pie is worth it. “Marie Callender made her chicken pot pie with tender white meat chicken and a golden flaky crust made from scratch.”
Hold onto your forks, foodies, as we dive into the top three frozen pot pies, starting with the iconic Marie Callender’s. With the brand’s wide availability in major grocery stores, shopping chains, and even some convenience stores, it has earned the title of “old reliable” on this list.
The crust of this chicken pot pie is a dependable companion, offering a solid flavor profile without overpowering the other elements. Regarding gravy, it falls into a comfortable middle ground — it is not clear, but it isn’t overly thick either. It brings decent flavor to the table and adds a savory touch to the
Ensemble. It may not dazzle you, but it earns its place among the pot pie greats in our book. When it comes to the chicken, Marie Callender’s delivers on juiciness, presenting tender white-meat chunks that are sure to please. However, the texture may hint at a processed origin, slightly detracting from the
Overall experience. Nevertheless, the abundance of chicken makes up for it, allowing each bite to be filled with savory poultry goodness that makes for a hearty meal. Marie Callender’s chicken pot pie stands as the gold standard of convenience since it is so accessible. With 440 calories and 650 milligrams of sodium,
It is not the worst option on the list, either. While the crust and gravy may not steal the show, they do in fact play their roles admirably. The chicken, despite its slightly processed texture, brings juicy satisfaction, while the veggies serve as worthy companions. If you find yourself
Craving a convenient and satisfying pot pie experience, Marie Callender’s is here to deliver. If you do not know Willow Tree, you do not know pot pies. This freezer classic boasts a commitment to antibiotic-free ingredients, offering a reliable choice for discerning palates. It
Can also be found in the freezer sections of most stores, making it easy to pick up during the week. Willow Tree’s crust may not burst with bold flavors, but it sure does bring delightful flakiness to the table. Its exterior offers a satisfying crunch, while the interior remains
Soft and comforting. The gravy falls on the thinner side of fillings, but it does not lack the vibrant flavor you desire. However, that richness might come from the 900 milligrams of sodium, putting this pot pie option in first place for the most unhealthy, sadly enough.
Fear not though, for the chicken steals the spotlight with its shredded goodness. Juicy and bursting with flavor, this chicken is a refreshing departure from the traditional chunky style and processed options found in many pot pies, leaving your taste buds
Yearning for more and your brain knowing you are eating real white meat. The veggies in Willow Tree’s pot pie play their part without detracting from the overall enjoyment, too, complementing the chicken and adding color and texture to the whole ensemble. Willow Tree’s pot pie is a classic choice with its commitment to
Quality ingredients. The gravy provides a subtle canvas for the standout ingredient: the shredded chicken. With a good mix of veggies and a solid crust, it strikes a balance that keeps your taste buds entertained. So, cluck with delight
And indulge in this classic frozen pot pie that delivers on its promise of real chicken goodness. “This all started when we were making chicken pies out of our home.” Prepare to be blown away with Centerville Pie Co.’s frozen pot pies, where looks and
Taste are levels above the competition. This pie boasts a crust that is a sweet surprise, with a slight doughiness and just the right amount of flakiness that creates a harmonious texture that leaves you wanting more. But when it comes to the gravy,
Centerville strikes the perfect balance, enveloping the pie with a wealth of rich flavors, providing a luscious backdrop to the star ingredient — the chicken. Here is where Centerville truly shines. Each bite reveals chunks of real, unprocessed chicken, clearly showing their commitment to quality ingredients. Juiciness permeates every morsel,
Making it an unforgettable experience. While predominantly featuring white meat, the presence of a few dark pieces showcases the use of a whole bird, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile. As for nutrition, just under 1 cup of pie is only 410 calories with only 460 milligrams of
Sodium. The flavor is real with this comfort classic, and the taste just can’t be beat. With a visually appealing presentation and exceptional flavors, Centerville Pie Co.’s frozen pot pies capture the essence of a lovingly crafted pie and our first-place spot. From the sweet and doughy crust to the perfect gravy,
Every aspect is carefully balanced to create a memorable experience. And with real chicken, the rest of the competition doesn’t stand a chance. This one is a must-try!
44 Comments
Are there any pot pies that you think deserve a spot on this list?
Why does the FDA allow them to be called "pot pies", when there's no pot in them!? False advertising!
Stouffers was the top of my list, but it was discontinued during Covid, and hasn't returned. FYI – I don't have Willow Tree or Centerville Pie in my area, so I never tried them. I DID try Boston Market. It tasted like disappointment. Hardly anything but a few chicken chucks in the Boston Market pie. Trace amounts of tiny veggie pieces, and no gravy. It was just sad. Banquet, Blake's, and Mrs. Budd's were ranked correctly – don't waste your money.
You couldn’t select the same flavor pot pie from all manufacturers? What about cost comparison? This report is below your standard. 👎
Im widowed, now live alone, and living on a fixed income, so simple inexpensive 'meals-for-one' are what I mostly eat. I like the Marie Callender large size (15 oz) pot pies. I like the creamy parmesan chicken or the plain chicken and can get them at Walmart for $3.50. I would give these pretty high marks for what you get for that price. Walmart used to carry the MC cheesy chicken & bacon pot pie but they stopped which is a shame as I really liked them too. I always bake them in the oven (not microwave) although they take an hour to cook.
Thank you
Paul
Centerville pies are made in Cape Cod. I got it once. It was enjoyable but TOO expensive for my wallet! Pot pies was always a go to when your budget was very tight.
Centerville Pot pies are $80 a pie. They better feed it to me for that price.
I will take a Banquet Chicken Pot pie for $1.00 at Kroger
What is a processed texture for dhicken?
I personally like the WILLOW TREE pies myself…..Usually I like to add a 8oz. can of mixed vegetables to the pie for extra quantity as I do like lots of veggies with the chicken and gravy…….
Like TV Dinners, there isn't enough in these things to feed a cat!
My wife makes her own with left over from roast chicken and frozen pie crusts, and leftover or frozen vegetables. And NO added salt so my blood pressure doesn't spike as I just add a little on my serving to suit taste. And the cost for the family is about the same as one small frozen one.
Marie Callender’s are the best I’ve found. The cheap ones like Banquet are too watery.
We like Marie Calanders pies. Loaded with chunks of white chicken, peas, carrots and gravy. We buy at costco and love these on a cold winter day.
I want to know how much Marie Callender paid her to say good things about them. I even sent the factory a letter complaining about how dry it was and they said they check into it they never did. I tried one year later it was the same.
An $80 dollar chicken pot pie? Doesn't seem a fare comparison to $5 pot pies. You would have to be Oprah to afford it. I'll stick to my homemade.
Say what you will about Banquet pot pies, but at 17, in 1970, living alone in a ratty one room apartment, working PT at night and going to high school during the day, these pies saved my bacon. They were 10 for $1.00 back then, so I'd buy 20, half chicken, half beef, which lasted me a week. I did this for over 6 month's, until I graduated, turned 18, and got a fulltime job (also got a new apartment & some pots and pans). Now 71, and rarely eat pot pies, but when I do, it's always Banquet.
Nope, only my home made pot pies.
Centerville Chicken Pot Pies better be good because they’re 80$ per pot pie! No thank you I’ll stick with Marie Callender’s Beef Pot Pies. I make a 1/2 cup beef stock gravy in the time it takes to microwave the pot pie. For what I think Marie missed for my pot pie needs. 80 dollars….that’s crazy! The cost of all the other pot pies together, times 2 does not equal 1 Centerville pie
I guess I have no taste, still love Banquet for a snack
I’m sorry to have to rain on your parade but from personal experience having lived in Australia, New Zealand and The USA I can say that Australian and New bZealand pies have a far greater range of flavours aND SUPERIOR pastry. If you go into a pastry or a pie shop in both countries they will have a wide selection of pies from bacon and egg to butter chicken and maybe 6 different types of beef pies.
I agree with your pick of gold standard.🦇
Recently bought Marie Callender's Chicken Pot Pie and it left an awful lot to be desired. Very little gravy, which made it dry, and hardly any flavor. All we could say was "Yuck".
Proper Pies in Richmond,Va.are the best tasting made every day from scratch.
Chicken Pot Pie… Three of my favorite things.
Love how when you post the video of the Willow Tree pot pie, you show a man of color grabbing something from the cooler with corn roles. You know damn well he's reaching for that 40 ounce of Old English 800 on his Obama phone… 🤣
Just give me the POT and you can have the pie.
too much gravy in Mrs budds, not enough veggies, I like Marie callenders, can't find willow tree, or Centerville pot pies 😥
How can your No. 1 receive top billing without any vegetables?!
Banquet pot pies are good and they're cheap as well. I keep several of them in my freezer.
Marie Callender's is my go to pot pie. I prefer the turkey to chicken and buy it a few times a month when I need a quick meal.
Sodium is a necessary electrolyte so as long as you don't overindulge or have a cardiovascular disorder or just lazy, it's fine
sodium Is everybody stuck on day 26 of their cycle all the time? Once I come sick, for 24 days thereafter, I don't care how much sodium is in something.
Amy's frozen vegetarian pot pies work for me.
Please cut down on the SODIUM
Willow Tree and Centerville. Interesting. Not sold in my state.
I was keen to try #1 they have an online store that offers free shipping! All their pies are $80! Too bad
KFC has a good pot pie.
Thanks for this beautiful and informative video we will keep this information in mind when we shop! 😂😊😂😊❤❤❤
i do like the mrs. budds and marie calanders but will have to try the boston market. i live in the boston area but have never seen centerville pies in the stores but i will look again. my wife doesn't really care for chicken pot pie because of the sodium factor but always eats them and complains when i do serve it for dinner. we visit cape cod every summer and centerville which is part of barnstable i think and will look for the pie company.
I know the banquets will gave you heart burn so bad that you will not sleep and feel real sick.
Centerville pie,doesn't look like there are any vegetables in it.Also 460mg of sodium,is too much, for people who have high blood pressure.We can't have sodium,because it increases blood pressure! Wouldn't it,for those reasons.
I have never had a Maries pot pie that had vegetables. It was mostly meat, gravy & crust.
Boston market is my go to.
Salt is cheap and adds weight. How about a low sodium pot pie?