Are you tired of staring at that mound of leftover masa dough in your fridge, wondering what to do with it? Well, fret no more! We’ve got you covered with 10 mouthwatering recipe ideas that will transform that forgotten dough into culinary masterpieces.
From cheesy tamales to crispy empanadas, you’ll be amazed at the endless possibilities.
So roll up your sleeves, grab that rolling pin, and let’s get cooking!

10 Delicious Ways To Use Up Leftover Masa Dough
Are you torn between the deliciousness of tamales and the savory goodness of empanadas? Or perhaps you can’t decide whether you’re in the mood for fritters or pancakes.
And let’s not forget the eternal battle between pizza and calzone. Whether you’re debating between dumplings and gnocchi or enchiladas and lasagna, we’re here to help you navigate these culinary dilemmas and make the best choice for your taste buds.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of mouthwatering food options!
Tamales or Empanadas?
If you’re debating between tamales or empanadas, why not try making both with your leftover masa dough?
Tamales are traditional Mexican delights made by spreading masa dough on a corn husk, filling it with savory or sweet fillings, and then steaming it to perfection.
Empanadas, on the other hand, are stuffed pastries popular in Latin American cuisine. They are made by rolling out the masa dough, filling it with delicious ingredients like meat, cheese, or vegetables, and then frying or baking it until golden and crisp.
By using your leftover masa dough to make both tamales and empanadas, you get the best of both worlds – a steamed delight and a crispy, savory pastry.
So go ahead and indulge in these tasty treats!
Fritters or Pancakes?
When making a decision between fritters or pancakes, you can’t go wrong with either choice for a delicious breakfast or snack option.
Fritters are small, crispy, and packed with flavor. They are typically made with a batter that includes a variety of ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, or even cheese. The batter is then deep-fried until golden brown, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. Fritters are perfect for those who enjoy a savory and crunchy treat.
On the other hand, pancakes are a classic breakfast staple. They are made from a simple batter of flour, eggs, milk, and baking powder. The batter is cooked on a griddle until fluffy and golden. Pancakes are versatile and can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings such as syrup, fruits, or even chocolate chips.
Whether you prefer the crispy texture of fritters or the fluffy goodness of pancakes, both options are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead and indulge in a plate of fritters or a stack of pancakes for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Pizza or Calzone?
Pizza and calzone are both delicious options for a satisfying meal.
When it comes to pizza, you can’t go wrong with the classic combination of dough, sauce, cheese, and toppings. The crust of a pizza is usually thin and crispy, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. Toppings can range from simple pepperoni and cheese to more adventurous options like barbecue chicken or Mediterranean vegetables.
On the other hand, calzone offers a unique twist on traditional pizza. It is essentially a folded pizza, with all the ingredients tucked inside the dough. This creates a pocket of gooey cheese, savory sauce, and flavorful toppings. The crust is typically thicker and chewier than a pizza crust, providing a satisfying bite.
Whether you prefer the simplicity of pizza or the folded goodness of calzone, both options are sure to please your taste buds.
Dumplings or Gnocchi?
You should try the dumplings or gnocchi for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Dumplings are a versatile and comforting dish that can be found in different cuisines all around the world. Whether you prefer steamed, boiled, or fried dumplings, they are sure to please your taste buds. The soft and chewy texture of the dumpling wrappers, filled with a flavorful mixture of meat, vegetables, or even cheese, makes for a delightful bite.
On the other hand, gnocchi is an Italian pasta made from potato dough. These small, pillowy dumplings are typically served with a variety of sauces, such as tomato, pesto, or cream-based. The gnocchi’s light and fluffy texture, combined with the rich and hearty sauces, create a perfect harmony of flavors.
Enchiladas or Lasagna?
If you’re in the mood for a hearty and flavorful dish, enchiladas or lasagna are both excellent options.
Enchiladas, a traditional Mexican dish, consist of tortillas rolled around a filling and covered in a tasty sauce. The filling can be anything from shredded chicken or beef to cheese and vegetables. The sauce is typically made from a blend of tomatoes, chilies, and spices, giving it a rich and tangy flavor.
On the other hand, lasagna is an Italian classic that layers flat pasta sheets with a combination of meat, cheese, and sauce. The result is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Whether you prefer the bold and spicy flavors of enchiladas or the comforting layers of lasagna, both dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Churros or Donuts?
For a sweet and indulgent treat, nothing beats the crispy and sugary goodness of churros or donuts.
Both of these delectable desserts have their own unique appeal and flavor.
Churros, originating from Spain, are long and thin, with a crunchy exterior and a soft, doughy interior. They are often dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with a warm chocolate dipping sauce.
On the other hand, donuts are round and fluffy, with a delightful golden-brown crust and a soft, pillowy center. They come in various flavors, such as glazed, chocolate, or filled with cream.
Whether you prefer the simplicity of a classic churro or the variety of flavors found in donuts, you can’t go wrong with either choice when you’re craving a sweet treat.
So go ahead, indulge yourself and satisfy your sweet tooth with the irresistible allure of churros or donuts.
Tortillas or Quesadillas?
When it comes to Mexican cuisine, tortillas and quesadillas are both delicious options that you can enjoy in a variety of ways.
Tortillas, made from masa dough, are a staple in Mexican cooking. They are thin, round, and can be used as a base for tacos, enchiladas, or even as a wrap for sandwiches.
Quesadillas, on the other hand, are a delightful combination of melted cheese and tortillas. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as chicken, beef, vegetables, or even beans. Quesadillas are typically cooked on a griddle or in a skillet until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
Whether you prefer the simplicity of a tortilla or the cheesy goodness of a quesadilla, both options are sure to satisfy your cravings for Mexican flavors. So go ahead and indulge in these tasty treats!
Cornbread or Muffins?
Have you tried the cornbread or muffins at that new bakery? If not, you’re in for a treat!
The cornbread is a delightful combination of sweet and savory, with a moist and tender texture that melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a bowl of chili or a hearty soup.
The muffins, on the other hand, are a breakfast favorite. They are soft and fluffy, with just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you prefer them plain or loaded with blueberries or chocolate chips, they are sure to satisfy any craving.
So next time you’re in the mood for some baked goods, head over to that new bakery and give their cornbread or muffins a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Pupusas or Arepas?
Now that you’ve explored the possibilities of using leftover masa dough to make delicious cornbread or muffins, let’s dive into another exciting option – pupusas or arepas!
These traditional Latin American dishes are made with masa dough and are absolutely mouthwatering.
Pupusas originate from El Salvador and are thick, stuffed tortillas. They are typically filled with cheese, beans, or meat, and then cooked on a griddle until golden and crispy. The combination of the soft masa dough and the gooey filling is simply irresistible.
On the other hand, arepas are a staple in Colombian and Venezuelan cuisine. These round, flatbreads are made with masa dough and can be filled with a wide variety of ingredients such as cheese, meat, or even scrambled eggs. They are then grilled or fried until they develop a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.
Whether you choose to make pupusas or arepas, you can’t go wrong with either option. So gather your leftover masa dough and get ready to enjoy a taste of Latin America right in your own kitchen!
Waffles or Crepes?
If you can’t decide between waffles or crepes, try making both to satisfy your breakfast cravings.
Waffles are a classic breakfast staple, known for their crispy exterior and fluffy interior. With their deep pockets, waffles are perfect for holding your favorite toppings like fresh fruit, syrup, or whipped cream.
On the other hand, crepes are thin and delicate, resembling a thin pancake. They are versatile and can be filled with sweet or savory fillings, such as Nutella, strawberries, ham, or cheese.
Making waffles and crepes at home allows you to customize them to your liking. You can experiment with different flavors and toppings, making your breakfast experience even more enjoyable.
So why choose between waffles or crepes when you can have both? Treat yourself to a delicious combination that will leave you satisfied and ready to start your day.
Conclusion
So, now you know what to do with that leftover masa dough! With these 10 delicious recipe ideas, you’ll never waste a single bit of this precious ingredient again.
From mouthwatering tamales to crispy empanadas and savory pupusas, the possibilities are endless.
So next time you find yourself with extra masa dough, embrace the irony of turning what could have been a waste into a culinary masterpiece.
Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll feel like a culinary genius.
Happy cooking!
Ben, a culinary enthusiast and owner of RelishedRecipes.com, shares his passion for food and cooking through delectable recipes and valuable tips. Ben delights in exploring international cuisines and inspiring home cooks on their culinary journeys.