There are significant differences between cooking with paper plates and plastic plates. Paper plates are not designed for cooking as they can catch fire or disintegrate at high temperatures. They are best used for serving food. Plastic plates, on the other hand, can withstand higher temperatures and are sometimes microwave-safe, making them suitable for reheating or microwaving food. However, plastic plates may not distribute heat evenly and can leach chemicals if they get too hot, which is a health concern. It's important to use plates intended for the specific purpose to ensure safety and efficiency in cooking and serving.