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Buona Beef Tuna Genovese Copycat Recipe

Buona Beef Tuna Genovese Copycat Recipe

Craving Buona Beef’s famous Tuna Genovese? Learn how to make this Chicago-style sandwich at home with our copycat recipe—flaky tuna, creamy pesto mayo, melted provolone, and a toasted roll. Taste the deli magic in every bite!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 620 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Tuna Mixture:

  • 2 cans (5 oz each) high-quality albacore tuna in water (drained)
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise (preferably Hellmann’s or Duke’s)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Pesto Mayo:

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice

For the Sandwich Assembly:

  • 2 Italian sub rolls (or French bread rolls)

  • 4 slices provolone cheese
  • 4-6 slices tomato
  • ½ cup shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 4-6 slices red onion (optional)
  • 1 tbsp butter (for toasting)

Instructions
 

1. Prepare the Tuna Mixture

  • Use a fork to flake the drained tuna in a medium bowl.
  • Add mayo, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Mix gently until well combined—don’t overmix, or it’ll become mushy.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld.

2. Make the Pesto Mayo

  • In a small bowl, combine mayo, pesto, and lemon juice.
  • Stir until smooth and set aside.

. 3. Assemble the Sandwich

  • Slice the rolls lengthwise (but not all the way through) to create a hinge.
  • Spread a generous layer of pesto mayo on both sides of the bread.
  • Layer the bottom half with:
  • Provolone cheese (2 slices per sandwich)
  • Tuna mixture (spread evenly)
  • Tomato slices
  • Red onion (if using)
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Close the sandwich and press lightly.

4. Toast the Sandwich

  • Heat a skillet or panini press over medium heat.
  • Lightly butter the outside of the rolls (optional, for extra crispiness).
  • If using a skillet, place the sandwich in the pan and press down with a spatula (or another heavy pan).
  • Cook until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted, 2 to 3 minutes per side.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

  • Cut the sandwich in half and serve it warm right away.
  • Pair with pickles, chips, or a side salad for the full deli experience.
Keyword Buona Beef Tuna Genovese Copycat Recipe