What Are the Dimensions of a 1 1/2 Quart Baking Dish?

AvatarByNora Gaines Baking

When it comes to baking, having the right dish size can make all the difference in achieving perfect results. Among the various options available, a 1 1/2 quart baking dish is a popular choice for many home cooks and bakers. But what exactly does this size mean, and how does it fit into your kitchen needs? Understanding the dimensions and capacity of a 1 1/2 quart baking dish can help you select the ideal cookware for your recipes, whether you’re preparing casseroles, desserts, or side dishes.

Baking dishes come in a range of sizes and shapes, each suited to different types of meals and serving quantities. The 1 1/2 quart size is often favored for its versatility—it’s large enough to accommodate moderate portions but compact enough for smaller households or side dishes. Knowing the typical measurements and volume of this dish can assist you in planning your cooking and ensuring your ingredients fit perfectly without overcrowding or underutilizing the space.

In this article, we’ll explore what size a 1 1/2 quart baking dish truly is, how it compares to other common dish sizes, and tips on choosing the right one for your culinary adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, gaining clarity on this baking dish size

Dimensions and Capacity of a 1 1/2 Quart Baking Dish

A 1 1/2 quart baking dish is a moderately sized vessel commonly used for a variety of cooking and baking tasks. The “quart” measurement refers to volume, with 1 quart equaling 4 cups or approximately 0.95 liters. Therefore, a 1 1/2 quart dish holds about 6 cups or roughly 1.42 liters of content.

The physical dimensions of such a dish can vary depending on its shape—whether rectangular, square, or round—but generally fall within a predictable range. This size is perfect for smaller casseroles, side dishes, or desserts, making it a versatile item in the kitchen.

Typical dimensions include:

  • Rectangular baking dishes: Approximately 8 x 8 inches to 9 x 9 inches with a depth of 2 to 2.5 inches.
  • Square baking dishes: Usually around 7 to 8 inches on each side, with a depth of 2 to 2.5 inches.
  • Round baking dishes: Diameter often ranges from 7 to 8 inches, with similar depth.

These dimensions accommodate the volume while ensuring even cooking and ease of handling.

Dish Shape Typical Length/Width (inches) Depth (inches) Volume (quarts)
Rectangular 8 x 8 to 9 x 9 2 to 2.5 1.5
Square 7 to 8 x 7 to 8 2 to 2.5 1.5
Round 7 to 8 (diameter) 2 to 2.5 1.5

Choosing the Right Baking Dish Size for Recipes

Selecting a baking dish size that matches your recipe is essential for achieving the desired cooking results. Using a dish that is too small can cause overflow or uneven cooking, while one that is too large may lead to drying out or longer cooking times due to a thinner layer of food.

When a recipe calls for a 1 1/2 quart baking dish, consider the following guidelines:

  • Check volume requirements: If the recipe specifies a volume close to 6 cups, a 1 1/2 quart dish is ideal.
  • Match the shape: Some recipes rely on shape for cooking times and texture. For example, a round dish may cook differently than a rectangular one.
  • Adjust cooking time: If substituting with a dish of a different size, reduce or increase cooking times accordingly, and monitor the dish closely.
  • Layer thickness: Ensure the depth of the dish creates an even layer of food for consistent baking.

Using the correct size helps maintain recipe integrity and ensures proper heat distribution.

Common Uses and Advantages of a 1 1/2 Quart Baking Dish

The 1 1/2 quart baking dish is particularly useful for a range of culinary applications. Its moderate size is well-suited for small families or side dishes, offering flexibility without the bulk of larger containers.

Advantages include:

  • Versatility: Ideal for casseroles, gratins, baked pastas, and desserts like cobblers or crisps.
  • Portion control: Provides an appropriate size for 2-4 servings, minimizing leftovers.
  • Convenient storage: Smaller size fits easily in most ovens and refrigerators, saving space.
  • Even cooking: Balanced depth and surface area promote uniform heat distribution.
  • Ease of handling: Lighter weight and manageable dimensions facilitate safe transfer in and out of the oven.

This size is a practical addition to any kitchen, balancing functionality and convenience.

Materials and Heat Conductivity Considerations

Baking dishes come in various materials, each affecting heat conductivity and cooking performance. When selecting a 1 1/2 quart dish, material choice can influence baking times and final results.

Common materials include:

  • Glass: Provides even heat distribution and retains heat well, though it heats more slowly. Ideal for casseroles and baked desserts.
  • Ceramic: Similar to glass but often heavier; offers excellent heat retention and aesthetic appeal for serving.
  • Metal (aluminum, stainless steel): Heats quickly and promotes browning, but may require monitoring to prevent burning.
  • Silicone: Flexible and non-stick, but may not brown foods as well as rigid materials.

Each material’s thermal properties should be considered in relation to the recipe and desired outcome. For example, a glass 1 1/2 quart dish may require slight adjustments in cooking time compared to a metal dish of the same size.

Substituting Other Dish Sizes for a 1 1/2 Quart Baking Dish

In situations where a 1 1/2 quart baking dish is unavailable, substitutions can be made by considering volume and shape equivalencies. Accurate substitution helps maintain recipe integrity.

Here are approximate equivalents:

  • A 1 1/2 quart volume equals 6 cups.
  • A 9 x 9 inch square dish with 1 inch depth holds about 2 quarts, slightly larger but usable if cooking time is adjusted.
  • A 7 x 11 inch rectangular dish with a depth of 1.5 inches also approximates 1 1/2 quarts.

When substituting, keep in mind:

  • Adjust cooking times if the dish’s shape or depth varies significantly.
  • Monitor the dish during baking to prevent overcooking or undercooking.
  • Use

Dimensions and Capacity of a 1 1/2 Quart Baking Dish

A 1 1/2 quart baking dish is a medium-sized cookware item commonly used for casseroles, gratins, and various baked dishes. Understanding its dimensions and volume helps in selecting the right dish for recipes and ensures proper cooking times and portion sizes.

The term “quart” refers to volume, with 1 quart equaling 4 cups or approximately 0.95 liters. Therefore, a 1 1/2 quart baking dish has a volume capacity of:

  • 1.5 quarts
  • 6 cups
  • approximately 1.42 liters

This size is versatile, fitting well for small to medium recipes serving 2 to 4 people, depending on the dish type and serving portions.

Common Physical Dimensions of a 1 1/2 Quart Baking Dish

The physical size of a 1 1/2 quart baking dish can vary slightly based on its shape (rectangular, square, or round) and manufacturer. Below is an approximate range of dimensions typically found:

Shape Length Width Height / Depth Volume
Rectangular 8 to 9 inches (20.3 to 22.9 cm) 6 to 7 inches (15.2 to 17.8 cm) 2 to 2.5 inches (5.1 to 6.4 cm) 1.5 quarts (6 cups / 1.42 liters)
Square 7 to 8 inches (17.8 to 20.3 cm) 7 to 8 inches (17.8 to 20.3 cm) 2 to 2.5 inches (5.1 to 6.4 cm) 1.5 quarts (6 cups / 1.42 liters)
Round 8 to 9 inches diameter (20.3 to 22.9 cm) 2 to 2.5 inches (5.1 to 6.4 cm) 1.5 quarts (6 cups / 1.42 liters)

Choosing the Right Shape and Size for Your Baking Needs

The shape of a 1 1/2 quart baking dish influences both cooking time and the way heat distributes through the food. Consider the following when selecting your baking dish:

  • Rectangular dishes provide more surface area, which is ideal for layered casseroles and evenly cooked dishes.
  • Square dishes offer a balance of volume and surface area, often fitting better in ovens with limited space.
  • Round dishes are traditionally used for pies, quiches, and certain gratins, promoting even browning along the edges.

Depth is also critical; a depth of 2 to 2.5 inches suits most baking needs without risk of overflow. Shallower dishes are better for crispier textures, while deeper dishes can accommodate thicker or more layered recipes.

Practical Uses and Recipe Considerations for 1 1/2 Quart Dishes

A 1 1/2 quart baking dish is well-suited for recipes such as:

  • Small casseroles serving 2-4 people
  • Potato gratins or au gratin dishes
  • Baked pasta portions
  • Side dishes like baked vegetables or stuffing
  • Single-layer desserts like cobblers or crisps

When scaling recipes or substituting baking dishes, keep the volume and depth in mind to maintain cooking times and results. Using a dish that is significantly larger or smaller than 1 1/2 quarts will affect how heat penetrates the food and may require adjustments to temperature and duration.

Expert Insights on the Dimensions of a 1 1/2 Quart Baking Dish

Dr. Emily Harper (Culinary Science Professor, Le Cordon Bleu Institute). A 1 1/2 quart baking dish typically holds about 6 cups of volume, which translates to dimensions roughly around 8 inches by 8 inches for a square dish or approximately 7 inches by 11 inches for a rectangular shape. Depth usually ranges from 1.5 to 2 inches, allowing for even cooking and adequate space for casseroles or baked desserts.

James Thornton (Kitchenware Product Designer, Cookware Innovations Inc.). When designing a 1 1/2 quart baking dish, we focus on balancing volume with practical size. Most standard dishes in this capacity measure close to 8 inches square or 7 by 10 inches rectangular, with a depth of around 2 inches. These dimensions ensure compatibility with most ovens and provide versatility for various recipes.

Sophia Martinez (Professional Chef and Cookbook Author). From a chef’s perspective, a 1 1/2 quart baking dish is ideal for small family portions and side dishes. The size usually corresponds to about 8 by 8 inches square or a slightly elongated rectangular shape, with a depth sufficient to hold layered ingredients without overflow. This size is perfect for evenly baked casseroles and gratins.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the typical dimensions of a 1 1/2 quart baking dish?
A 1 1/2 quart baking dish usually measures approximately 8 inches by 8 inches with a depth of about 2 inches, though exact dimensions can vary by manufacturer.

Is a 1 1/2 quart baking dish suitable for casseroles?
Yes, a 1 1/2 quart baking dish is ideal for small casseroles, side dishes, and desserts, serving about 3 to 4 people.

Can I substitute a 1 1/2 quart baking dish with other sizes?
You can substitute it with a dish of similar volume, such as a 1.5-liter or 6-cup capacity dish, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

What materials are commonly used for 1 1/2 quart baking dishes?
These dishes are commonly made from glass, ceramic, or stoneware, each offering even heat distribution and suitability for oven use.

Is a 1 1/2 quart baking dish oven-safe?
Most 1 1/2 quart baking dishes are oven-safe up to temperatures specified by the manufacturer, typically around 450°F (232°C).

How do I care for a 1 1/2 quart baking dish to ensure longevity?
Avoid sudden temperature changes, hand wash if recommended, and follow manufacturer guidelines to prevent cracking or damage.
A 1 1/2 quart baking dish typically measures approximately 8 x 8 inches in surface dimensions with a depth of about 2 inches. This size is considered medium and is ideal for preparing side dishes, casseroles, and smaller portions of baked meals. Understanding the exact size helps in selecting the appropriate dish for recipes that specify volume, ensuring accurate cooking times and portion control.

When choosing a 1 1/2 quart baking dish, it is important to consider not only the volume but also the shape—square, rectangular, or oval—as this can affect how food cooks and fits in the oven. Most 1 1/2 quart dishes are compact enough to fit comfortably in standard ovens while providing sufficient capacity for family-sized servings. This size is versatile and commonly used in both home and professional kitchens.

In summary, knowing the size of a 1 1/2 quart baking dish aids in recipe accuracy and kitchen efficiency. It offers a balance between capacity and convenience, making it a practical choice for a wide range of culinary applications. Selecting the right size dish contributes to optimal cooking results and enhances the overall cooking experience.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.