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Authentic Buona Beef Tuna Genovese sandwich filled with caramelized onions and Italian tuna on toasted ciabatta roll

Buona Beef Tuna Genovese Copycat Recipe

A rich and savory Italian-style tuna and beef sandwich inspired by Buona Beef, featuring caramelized onions, olive oil, and melted provolone for authentic flavor.
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Prep Time 7 minutes
Cook Time 28 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Lunch
Servings 2 SandWiches

Ingredients
  

  • Italian tuna in olive oil 1 can
  • Yellow onions thinly sliced 2 large
  • Extra virgin olive oil 2 tbsp
  • Minced garlic 1 tsp
  • Tomato paste 1 tbsp
  • Anchovy paste optional ½ tsp
  • Dried oregano ½ tsp
  • Crushed red pepper flakes ¼ tsp
  • Beef broth ¼ cup
  • Ciabatta rolls or hoagie buns As needed
  • Provolone slices optional For serving

Instructions
 

  • 1. Caramelize the Onions for Deep Italian Flavor
    In a large skillet, warm olive oil over low heat. Add thesliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 25–30 minutes untilgolden brown and soft. Patience here makes all the difference—the deeper thecolor, the richer the flavor.
  • 2. Add Aromatics and Build the Base
    Stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, and anchovy paste ifusing. Cook for 2–3 minutes, letting everything become fragrant and slightlydarkened. This forms the bold, savory base of your sauce.
  • 3. Season and Simmer
    Sprinkle in oregano and crushed red pepper flakes, then pourin the beef broth. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes until it thickensslightly into a rich onion sauce.
  • 4. Add the Tuna
    Fold in the Italian tuna—use the oil from the can for extraflavor. Mix gently to keep the tuna in chunks instead of shredding itcompletely. Heat through for about 2–3 minutes until warmed.
  • 5. Assemble & Toast the Sandwich
    Spoon the hot mixture onto toasted ciabatta rolls or hoagiebuns. Add provolone cheese if desired, then toast or press until the sandwichis warm and slightly melty.
  • 6. Serve and Enjoy
    Cut each sandwich in half, grab napkins, and dig in! It’sjuicy, messy, and absolutely delicious—just like the original Buona Beefversion.

Notes

  • Use Italian tuna in olive oil for rich flavor.
  • Caramelize onions slowly for best taste.
  • A touch of anchovy paste adds umami depth.
  • Toast ciabatta rolls for texture.
  • Provolone melts perfectly, but mozzarella works too.