What Are the Little Plastic Cups Called?

Ever wondered what those tiny small plastic cups are called? You know, the ones holding ketchup, ranch dressing, or a sample of that mystery sauce at your favorite fast-food joint? These miniature plastic cups actually have several names—and a surprisingly rich story behind them.

Whether you call them PET cups, soufflé cups, portion cups or disposable cups, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about these everyday essentials.

Ceramic vs. Plastic: The Tale of Mini Plastic Cups with Lids

To really get to the bottom of this, we need to split these mini marvels into two categories: ceramic and plastic.

Ceramic Cups: The Classic Ramekin

Ceramic cups, also known as ramekins, are the fancy ones you see in upscale restaurants or on cooking shows. They’re reusable, oven-safe, and perfect for serving soufflés (hence the name), desserts, or individual portions of mac and cheese.They bring a classy touch that plastic cups can’t replicate.

Plastic Soufflé Cups: Everyday Convenience

The plastic counterparts, often called soufflé cups, portion cups, or mini plastic cups with lids, are designed for convenience:

• Single-use

• Lightweight

• Hygienic and easy to handle

Many of these disposable cups are made of PET, which is strong, clear, and recyclable.

What Do Restaurant Folks Call Soufflé Cups?

Step into the world of restaurant lingo, and you’ll hear some interesting terminology. Those elegant ramekins? They’re reserved for the heavy-duty ceramic or reusable plastic cups, the kind that hold sides of sauce or small appetizers in style. They’re dishwasher-safe and built to last, so they make sense in busy kitchens.

But the portion cups? That’s the name of the game for disposables. These are the trusty sidekicks of to-go orders, perfect for condiments, dressings, and even small dessert samples. In most kitchens, it’s all about practicality: "Grab a portion cup for the ranch!" or "We’re out of 8 oz soufflé cups!" — you get the picture.

Why We Love Disposable Portion Cups (And You Should Too)

Disposable portion cups might not be glamorous, but they’re absolute lifesavers. Let’s take a moment to appreciate their many perks:

• Convenience is Key: No washing, no hassle. Use, toss, repeat. Disposable cups save time in restaurants and at home.

• Perfect Portions: Ever tried to guess how much ranch dressing you need? With sizes ranging from 1 oz to 4 oz, these cups have you covered. Consistency has never been so easy.

• Material Options: While many are made of plastic, the eco-conscious can opt for PET soufflé cups. These recyclable wonders are sturdy, crystal clear, and a great choice for reducing your environmental footprint. Many of disposable cups are made of PET. Learn more about why PET cups are preferred over other materials in this article: Why Are PET Plastic Cups the Top Choice Over Glass and Paper?

• Lids for the Win: Small plastic cups with lids prevent spills during delivery, meal prep, or travel.

• Multi-Purpose Magic: Beyond condiments, these cups are great for serving samples, prepping snacks, or even organizing small craft supplies. Who knew they had so many talents?

Real-Life Scenarios Where You’ll Find Them

1. At Restaurants

From fast food to five-star spots, portion cups are essential. They help with portion control, reduce waste, and keep food clean.

2. In Your Bathroom Cabinet

Every time you take a dose of liquid medicine, thank the humble medicine cup. It keeps dosing accurate and hygienic.

3. In Schools

Teachers use them for art supplies, snacks, counting games, and science experiments. They're a teacher’s secret weapon.

4. In the Lab

Yes, even scientists use tiny plastic cups! They're ideal for handling small liquid samples without contamination.

5. At Parties

Need to prep 50 jello shots for your friend’s birthday? You’ll be reaching for a bag of shot cups.

How to Choose the Right Portion Cups

Buying disposable portion cups might seem like a no-brainer, but there are a few tips to help you make the best choice:

• Size Matters: Think about what you’ll use them for. Need just a dab of ketchup? Go for 1 oz. Want to pack a snack? 4 oz is your friend.

• Material Choices: If you’re all about that eco-friendly life, look for PET soufflé cups. They’re durable, recyclable, and look great holding pretty much anything.

• Don’t Skip the Lids: For takeout, meal prep, or travel, make sure your cups come with lids. No one likes a leaky mess.

• Shop Smart: Online suppliers are a great option for buying PET souffle cups in bulk. For smaller quantities or more variety, online retailers like Amazon have endless choices—and reviews to guide you.

Wrapping It Up: The Charm of Plastic Soufflé Cups

So, what are those little cups called? It depends. If it’s ceramic and reusable, it’s a ramekin. If it’s plastic and disposable, it’s a soufflé cup, mini plastic cup with a lid, or simply a portion cup. No matter what you call them, these tiny containers are everyday heroes. They keep condiments contained, portions consistent, and snacks organized.

Next time you enjoy fries with ketchup or prep snacks for the week, give a nod to these unsung champions of convenience—they’ve earned it! For more information about these small cups, please visit JKAI's collection.