Buona Beef Tuna Genovese Copycat Recipe Made Easy

If you’re a fan of rich, flavorful Italian classics, you’ve probably heard about Buona Beef’s Tuna Genovese – a beloved dish that combines tender beef with a luscious, onion-based sauce that’s downright addictive.

This copycat recipe brings that iconic taste right into your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy every savory bite without leaving home. The secret lies in slow-cooking the beef until it melts in your mouth, then simmering it with caramelized onions and a touch of white wine for depth and complexity.

Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that showcases the comforting, rustic flavors of Ligurian cuisine.

In this post, I’ll guide you through each step to recreate Buona Beef Tuna Genovese perfectly. From selecting the right cuts to mastering the sauce, you’ll learn all the tips and tricks for an authentic result.

Plus, I’ll share useful variations, nutrition facts, and serving ideas that elevate this dish to a full dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Buona Beef Tuna Genovese copycat recipe is a celebration of hearty, soul-warming flavors in a simple yet elegant format. The slow-braised beef becomes incredibly tender, soaking up the sweet and savory notes of a rich onion sauce.

It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for cozy dinners, special occasions, or anytime you want to impress with minimal fuss.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of ingredients: the sweetness of the onions complements the umami of the beef, while a splash of white wine adds a subtle acidity that lifts the entire dish. It’s also versatile enough to serve over polenta, mashed potatoes, or even your favorite pasta, making it adaptable to your personal preferences.

Moreover, making this at home lets you avoid preservatives and customize the seasoning to your taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a home kitchen enthusiast, you’ll find the process enjoyable and rewarding.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or deep skillet
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Lid for the Dutch oven or skillet
• Serving dish or plates

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, searing each side until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove the beef and set aside.
3. Caramelize the onions: Lower the heat to medium. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil if needed. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until they are deeply golden and caramelized.
4. Add garlic and tomato paste: Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Deglaze with white wine: Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release all those flavorful browned bits. Let the wine reduce by half, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Return beef and add liquids: Add the seared beef back to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, add thyme, bay leaves, and a few grinds of black pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Simmer gently: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover with the lid and reduce heat to low. Let it cook slowly for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender.
8. Thicken the sauce (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the tablespoon of flour with a bit of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the stew and cook uncovered for another 10 minutes to thicken.
9. Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more salt and pepper if necessary. Remove bay leaves before serving.
10. Serve hot: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or your favorite pasta.

Tips & Variations

“Caramelizing onions slowly over low heat is key to unlocking the deep sweetness that defines Genovese sauce. Don’t rush this step!”

• Beef Alternatives: For a leaner option, use beef brisket or round roast, but note cooking times may vary.
• Onion Varieties: While yellow onions work best for sweetness, you can mix in some red onions for a different flavor profile.
• Wine Substitute: If you prefer no alcohol, replace white wine with additional beef broth and a teaspoon of white wine vinegar.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red chili flakes when cooking the garlic for a subtle kick.
• Slow Cooker Version: After searing the beef and caramelizing onions on the stovetop, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Vegetarian Twist: For a meatless option, try substituting beef with meaty mushrooms such as portobello or shiitake and use vegetable broth.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This beef tuna genovese pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to make your meal complete:

• Creamy Polenta: The silky texture of polenta complements the saucy beef perfectly.
• Mashed Potatoes: Classic and comforting, mashed potatoes soak up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Pasta: Serve over pappardelle or tagliatelle to keep it authentically Italian.
• Crusty Bread: For a rustic touch, dip crusty bread into the sauce for a satisfying bite.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted carrots, zucchini, or green beans adds freshness and balance.

Don’t forget a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to lighten the meal. For wine lovers, a glass of the same white wine used in cooking ties all the flavors together.

Conclusion

Recreating Buona Beef Tuna Genovese at home is a rewarding culinary adventure that brings the warmth and richness of traditional Italian cooking right to your table. Its slow-cooked tenderness combined with the sweetness of caramelized onions creates an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

With this detailed copycat recipe, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle or expense.

Whether you serve it over polenta, potatoes, or pasta, this dish is sure to impress your family and guests. The thoughtful tips and variations also let you customize it to your liking, making it a versatile staple for your recipe collection.

For more delicious and easy recipes, be sure to check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious, Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, and Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.

Enjoy your cooking journey and buon appetito!

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